Addie writes to Charlie on July 2nd about conflicting reports in the newspaper that Richmond had fallen or was again Uncle Sam's. She wishes for peace to be declared on "that memorable day," the 4th. Her letter writing, which was interrupted by the coming of her scholars, continues on July 3rd. Addie has heard "that desperate fighting was going on at Richmond. that 1200 of our brave men were already lying cold and insensible on the field", yet she yearns to be with him.