.Mzcx.NTIz

       Williamsburg–Nov 21st 1865– 

Dear Elizabeth

                                   To adopt the

commercial style – you letter, with enclosure, has been received, & contents noted. I wish you had retained your money for yourself. The glasses very suitable, & of excellent quality. There was no necssity for you going to the expense though. As they suit so well it will not be worth while to try to get a better a pair. Indeed it is doubtful if this could be done even if I had the selection myself. Every thing here is as gloomy as possible. So it is indeed in the whole South. What is to become of the country, or the people I do not know. When I went to Balt. I had no idea you were going, to be there. I regretted very much I could not stay longer to have seen you, & to have discussed a little the last 4 years. Becca & Lizzy are

                          or was or pretended to [..] be

well, & send their love. Becca, is very indignant ^ at your remark about rags. Give my love to cousin Francis, & sister [St..y]. Write again, & believe me to be yours affectionately [?] Elizabeth Ewell Benj. S. Ewell