April 12.
My dear Mrs. Howland: Last night (late) I was informed as a great secret that General Franklin’s Division was to go to General McClellan after all! I was wondering when I awoke this morning if I might not go and tell you. . . . General Meigs was one of the authorities given for the truth of the report–so I think we may believe the good news. . . .
I have a favor to ask, which is, if you decide to go down to Alexandria to try and see your husband on his way through, will you let me know? as I would like very much to go too.
I feel as if it would be a great comfort to see them before they start South.
Love to your mother and sisters. It is truly a mercy from above to have the Division relieved from the false position they were placed in, and now we have only to pray for their safety.
Yours aff’ly,
Anna L. Franklin.