Beautifully Dead
Chapter 04
From Charles Everett to his brother Thomas— April 24, 1861
My dear brother,
Your letter reached me yesterday, and as you, I am also struck with a heavy heart as our beloved Union tears itself asunder. Though this terrible conflict divides our nation, know that nothing shall ever divide our family—regardless of which cause we fall on. You will always remain my brother, and I understand your decision to enlist with the Massachusetts Volunteers. Do remember, however, that I bested you at shooting, so pray keep your head low should Providence place us on opposing fields of battle.
In all earnestness, you must promise to preserve yourself. Junior has need to know his uncle properly. I know you visited during your seminary exchange program, but he was merely an infant then and retains no memory of your visit. He has grown into quite the spirited lad, reminiscent of you when you were his age. Perhaps your seminary training might impart some beneficial wisdom to the boy when you return.
It troubles me deeply to think that the horrors of warfare might extinguish that light of wonder and goodness that has always shone within you. Stand firm, brother. Though I lack your profound connection to the Almighty, I trust He shall be your strength throughout these terrible trials.
Do you recall when the Emerson boy absconded with my carved wooden soldiers? I was consumed with thoughts of retribution. Father took me aside and advised that the strongest man forgives injury without seeking vengeance. His counsel alone might not have swayed me, as we both well know. 'Twas you who prevented that Emerson lad from receiving a sound thrashing. My younger brother taught me that true strength is shown in restraint, not in displays of power. While I held Father in high esteem, it was my little brother who doused my fury.
No amount of wisdom can extinguish the conflagration that now engulfs our land. I fear this fire must burn until it has claimed too many souls. Though you cannot halt these conflicts, I know your compassionate spirit will offer solace to many of your fellow soldiers on the battlefield.
Until we meet again, I remain your older, wiser brother,
Charles
P.S. Sarah sends her love. She wanted me to tell you to hurry back, so she can make you one of those pecan pies you love so much.
Margin notes on a church paper from Thomas:
Today I encountered the most wonderful and spirited woman at worship. She first caught my eye midst the congregation's opening hymn, and it did not go unnoticed. My heart was immediately stolen as she raised her eyes and met mine. Rather than averting her gaze, she smiled as she continued in song, permitting herself brief glances in my direction as she sang. There existed a most remarkable charge in the atmosphere, not unlike that which precedes a tempest. We exchanged fleeting looks during each pause in the sacred melody. And though these moments were but momentary, they possessed the weight of prolonged contemplation. Throughout the service, she vexed me most pleasantly with her measured attention. Never have I wished for the conclusion of a sermon with greater impatience than on that Lord's day. Who was this most exquisite beauty? I found myself compelled to make her acquaintance. I found myself desiring her company. The service concluded, and I feared the opportunity lost, until I espied her perusing a volume beneath the grand white oak. I delayed no further, and presented myself before at last learning her appellation: Eleanor.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
