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The Present seems truly to be a gloomy time for our noble & glorious cause yea the darkest hour since our troubles began. but I trust it will not last long - and a brighter & more cheering day is not distant. The fall of N. Orleans was a great and almost irreparable loss. The news of which to us was like a report of thunder from a clear sky - as we had been led to believe that it was almost impregnable. It seems that the enemy can take every place or city that is within rich of their ships & gun boats. I understand there will be an entire change of programme by our government in the farther prosecution of the war. it is to evacuate all of our seaport cities & towns and concentrate our armies inland or beyond the reach of their shipping or navy and I also understand we are to have an army of invasion and make them feel some of the distresses and horrors of war. Our Regt. is just entering upon an active campaign the time for fighting has at length arrived where will be ordered to I know not but the probability is sure is hot work for us just ahead. It is reported that Genrls, Johnston & McGruder have fallen back to Williamsburg if not farther where they can have a chance beyond the reach of their gun boats. I should be delighted to see you all soon but I see no possibly chance of my leaving soon. We as a Regt have seen hard times and I am afraid there is still worse ahead but with Mint hearts we will hope for the best. I dont know where to tell you to direct your answer to but I will try to keep you advised of our location. Write soon & often Farewell Give my love to all. Yrs as every truly W. T. Hollingsworth