Post Republic June 12,1862

Mrs Mills,
It is my painful duty to inform you that in the engagement on Sunday the 8th Inst. your husband was killed having received a minnie ball through his head. He died instantly. At the time of his death, the enemy was in hot pursuit of us, and his body had to be left on the field as it was late in the day before we regained the field it was next morning before we got the body. The enemy had rifled his pockets and taken all of his money, sword, and pistol. I sent notice for his body before I got it.
I tried to have him carried home to be buried but it was out of my power. I sent him to New Hope to be buried under charge of henry de Armesdic and bought a good coffin and shroud and he was decently put away. If you wish him sent home I will try and send it to you. I have in my possession your daguerreotype and that of your baby which I will send by Capt Oats to the care of J B Taylor Abbeville. I had them in my vault for safe keeping. He owes Lieut. Oates fifteen dollars for a military coat after he was elected Lieut. You will please inform me what to do in the matter. he has some money due him. I sympathize with you in your bereavement. he was much loved by his company and sustained an enviable reputation for his high toned generosity and morality all the while. he fell at his post in the discharge of his duty. Hoping you may have grace and fortitude to sustain you in your misfortune. I subscribe myself.
Yours respectfully,
Wm A Edwards"

Wesley Berryan Mills