Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edmund Berkeley has been informed of his sister's death and offers consolation to his mother. He also gives VMI news and complains about the food (early reference to "growley" a VMI slang word used for mess hall food).

V. M. Institute Nov the 26th 1863

My beloved Mother, I received cousin Mary's letter yesterday evening informing me of the death of my precious little sister. I was never more grieved in my life. We must not grieve for her now for she has happily escaped the troubles of time to come. I remember how sweetly she used to sing the little hymn I Want to be an Angel. How little did I think she would so soon realize her wishes. I will not miss her so much as you all at home for when I return Meggy will be large enough to fill her place. I was dreaming of the dear little thing a few nights ago. I am so thankful it was not one of the larger ones that it goes a great deal easier with me now than I expected. Do not grieve for her but be thankful it was not one of the large children who knew right from wrong. We all know how much happier she is now than she would possibly have been on this troublesome world.

I am enjoying very good health now. I hope you have gotten entirely well before now. I know how glad you will be to see Pa for I heard he had started for Evergreen. I am getting on very well indeed. The last time I went to see about my demerits which was two or three days ago I did not have a single one. I have made a 3 every day this week on Mathematick which is the highest mark. I believe I study harder than any one I know of here but I came here so late that I am not certain of standing the January examination. We have very poor fare here. Today for breakfast we had only two pieces of bread and about a half gill of milk with what we call growly which is made of mutton beef beef feet or any other thing they can make for dinner. We have beef and cabbage or turnips one day and beef-steak and soup the next. We have nothing that I would have eaten at home but I am so hungry when I go to meals that I think even turnips delicious, but I live off of it very well. [Neph] is as fat as a hog and every one says I have fattened very much. I like here very much but do not like the idea of staying here two years before coming home. If you are sick please send for me. Miss Herriot is very anxious to get to you she was very kind indeed to me when I was at the Rockbridge with the Corps. If Mr. M. and Mr. B. come out with a wagon send Mr. B. to the springs and Miss H. will certainly come. Give my best love to Cousins L. and M. and my dear Sister. Kiss my precious little darlings from Louis down. Do keep Louis at home. Make them all kiss you every night and morning for me. Take care of yourself my precious Mother. Write soon. Give my love to Francis & Mr. Spring and remember me to all the Neighbors and servants and believe me ever your devoted son. [Neph] sends his love to all. Edmund Berkely