.MTcz.NDAzMDM

Jan 1st 1854

Dear Brother & Sister

   We recd your very welcome letter some time since and this evening finds me ready and willing to answer yours.  I will commence by wishing you both a very happy new year, hoping sincerely that you may enjoy many, very many more.
   We are both yes I may all pretty well at present. the little lose is as pert as ever, grows with untireing rappidity.  I am troubled some with sore feet (Chil Blains) we have no very interesting ? to relate, we heard from home some time ago, answered their letter immediately, and such your letter also.  I regret much, yes very much that you are so feeble.  I fear much for your health, and I deeply sympathyse with you, I anticipated much pleasure, in conversing with you on many subjects etc. etc. but shall I be deprived the priviledge by that monster disease consumption?  I hope not!  I hope not!  Let me say to you as a brother be of good cheer, let not clouds of darkness