Letter, Alex W. Feemster to Loulie Feemster; 2/22/1864

              Selma Ala. Feb 22nd 1864
     Mrs. M. Lou Feemster,
                         My Precious Loulie;
                                             Your welcome favor of the 9th, which was mailed on the 12th, reached me on the 15th, though I just now recollect that I told you this before in the one I sent by Jesse. It was rumored here yesterday that Columbus was in the hands of the enemy and all the public property in the place burnt, but as I give no credence to these flying rumors, I'm writing as usual this evening. I have it, however, from official authority, that Grierson with 12 or 15 thousand men started to come down the M. & O. railroad, supposed to be aiming to form a junction with the federal force at Meridian. If he accomplishes his purpose he may take Columbus on his way. I can hardly tell why, unless it is that I feel that I left you in the [tear] of infinite power and goodness, but I haven't felt any uneasiness about your falling into the hands of the merciless foe. If they should reach your quiet retreat, I believe you will prove yourself equal to the emergency, and die, rather than submit to any indignity that the cowardly villains may attempt to put upon you. In the event of such an occurance, the more cool and collected you can keep yourself, the better it will be for you, for then you will be able to take advantage of the excitement of others. But I need not be talking thus, for I would not be at all surprised if you would act with better judgement than I would. Uncle Griff, uncle Dave, and Charlie arrived here yesterday evening with three other men and a few negro men and some wagons. They left Enterprise I think on Tuesday. The uncles left their families and Grandma in Enterprise, because Grandma was not able to travel in such bad weather, and the others would not leave her. They are all looking in fine health, and say they left the rest all well. Little Amzi has got to walking again. They are camped on a vacant lot just three squares from my room. I took