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1864 New Orleans June 17th My Dear Dear Niece It is getting quite late, and the Musquetoes are so bothersome that I can hardly sit still enough to write, but nevertheless must have a little talk with you this evening, as I have a little present which I wish to send to you, and have just heard of an opportunity by which I can send it. Our Lieutenant Colonel's Brother Mr. Martin is going to start for Alton tomorrow and has promised to take the fan for me. It is rather a frail thing, and am fearfull that it will get damaged before it gets home. Will venture to send it as, a love token, hopeing that it may arrive safely [begin vertical writing] Kiss Marshall for me and tell him him to be a good boy and I will write him a letter some of these days and you to Dear Katie be a good girl and learn as fast as possible Give love and kises to all the family from your loveing Uncle Carl [vertical writing end]