Elmira N. Y.

Nov 4^th 1864

 

            Mary D Babcock

                                    Respected & well wished Lady I now improve the present oppertunity of answering your kind and welcom letter the same day I left the City of washington. I am going home on a 12 day Furlough for the purpose of putting in a W[?] for Father [?] & would like to come up & see you but think it doubtful about it. Mary / what do you think about my staying to Washington this winter. I can get a good place there in War Department & get $60.00 per month & bond my self & I think I shall do it if you are not opposed to it. Mother wants me to stay at home this winter but I want to go where I can do the best. Dont you think so. the Railroad goes through near our House. My Uncle is going to furnish / 20 horses for the Railroad & wants me to take charge of the hands & see that the work is done right. He will pay good wages. But if I get into Business in War Department I can do better & it will not be as hard work. Now Mary write and tell me what you think about it & just what you think best. write just as soon as you get this so I will get it before I go back to Washington 

 

Direct Otto

Catt. Co. N.Y.

now dont fail to write soon

To your Nearest

Friend E. E. Brown

Mary shall

Ever Be Your

Friend & Lover

            E E Brown

To Miss M.D.B.

SOURCES