.MjI2.NTA0OTE

The "Champion" left Cairo a few days before we passed down, she was destined for St. Louis, and will find water sufficient to let her up and out again. --

My health remains good, and I fondly hope this may find you, and all the family participating an equal blessing. --

I desire that you, and all the family may be prepared to take a trip South when you think most convenient and expedient. I think to spend a month in the would be sunny South, would unclear you all, and how pleasant it will be for me, to have you underscore and our darlings underscore with me, as long as I cannot remain at home. -- I spend much time in anticipation thinking of you underscore and our little Ones three words underscored, and the happiness that we may yet enjoy, in our own little family Society, if my business would accord, with both of our feelings on this subject, we would soon be in possession of the anticipated enjoyment. -- I will endeavor to make you a visit on my trip up, if you are prepared to take a journey South very well, if not, it can be performed at some later period. -- Say to our little pets underscore, that Father will soon come home to see them.