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U.S.S.Banshee Off Point Lookout, Md. May 25th 1865

Dear Sister,

I received your letter of the [7th?] [inst.?] I should have answered before now, but we have been repairing our engines, and working from four in the morning till eight at night. I was very glad indeed to hear that you are well, and am also glad to to tell you that I am that way myself. I have been entirely over my [Rheaumatism?], and doing duty for two weeks. We have been kept pretty busy, now that the war is over they are commencing to Drill the Ships, to learn the Captains, what they ought to have known four years ago. We have heard a great many rumors about the Navy being reduced, but as yet have not seen any of it in this Flotilla. I think that at least half of the Vessels here will be called in sometime this summer, but whether the "Banshee" will be one or not I can't say. It all depends on the influence that the Officers have with the Department. There is not many of them but what would keep their vessels out as long as possible, for they know that they never will get another such a position. I hear that our present Capt. has a great deal of influence and we can make up our minds to be one of the last that will be called home. I received a letter a few days back from sarah she seems as you say to always enjoy the sunny side of life and like you, I wish that she always may. I think the whole of us have had a strange kind of a life, but as long as you are content which I am sure you are, I shall also be. I have no claim on anybody, there is many has claims on me, which when needed shall never be refused, as long as I have these two good hands. I believe I must now close give my love to all and remember me alway[s].

Your Affectionate Brother