Kind Friend,—

                        I seat myself to let you and Dear Sister know how we got out and where we are. I am happy to tell you that we got out safe. We are now in Shelby and this morning we were out seeing part of Ohio.

 

            We saw a tree that is eighteen feet and a half in circumference; it is the largest tree that ever I saw.

 

            I was to see Uncle and his family they I suppose are getting along tolerably well. He has a cind of a saloon. I was in several times and I had to think it was just a Hell hole for persons. Perhaps I am talking to plain but it is the truth. Do not tell Mother or any person else but it is certain there is more harm done than good. /

 

            I also was to see David Wise and his family they are all well at present. They were wishing some of you folks would of come along out to see them. They told me to send their best respects to you folks.

 

            I was there all night, on Wednesday. I was running through town to see how it looks. I have been pleased with the country so far but I have not got into buisiness yet, but I only arrived here yesterday evening and to-day we have been scouting around. Kind Friends I hope you will pardon me for not writing more. I have wrote one and I have two or three more to write. We are all well hoping you are the same. I want to give cousin Mollie a few lines therefore I must close by wishing you happiness and joy. From Shelby Feb 28^th 1862. Your friend and Brother

 

Endorse your letter     Henry Wetzel                                                 H Wetzel

My love to you and all            Shelby

inquiring folks. farewell,                    Richland Co

Kind friends                                                    Ohio

 

Please pardon this cribling for I had not time to do it beter.

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