.MjA3Ng.MzM2MQ

"This item is currently being transcribed by a volunteer. We look forward to making the full-text of the document available soon."

                                       November 9th 1864
                                 Steamer Santiago de Cuba
                                   Opposite Dr. Cooke's

Dear Mr. Walke,

               My health being as bad as possible

& the physicians pronouncing my only chance of recovery a change of climate, I attempted to reach Nassau from Wilmington on the "Lucy". We were captured & brought here, & am now awaiting orders from Old Pt. I have just found out from the Captain that I will be allowed to receive anything or to see any friends I may have. I am suffer ing very much for an overcoat & wish you would get me a secondhand or cheap, warm one, very long. I do not want a fine coat for prison. I hope to be released in a few days as I was only a passenger. If not too much trouble I should be glad to see you aboard. Although unable to give you any infor- mation of your friends. I think it proba- we shall leave this evening for Old Point. We have been treated in the kindest manner possible by the officers. If you are unable to attend to this commission ask Dr Cook to do so; it will have to be fixed at once as I may not be allowed to receive it at Old Pt. All the [.....?] not very long since she [?] very cheerful and was living in Halifax. I should prefer my uncle's not knowing of me as it will only disturb them. As soon as I see they can be of service I shall ask them to do so, but I dislike worrying people when they can do no good. Notwithstanding the kindness I have received I suffer much, and if at home should go to bed. The discharge of pus from my lungs has been much increased by the exposure I have encountered. [?] I am really so weak that at any moment I may have to go to a hospital, and if after a short time you or Uncle do not hear from me I will get you to see if I am at O. Pt and how coming on. John is gloomy but fatal [?] , & says he is beating this end of the line in [dividends?] Pendleton, Ghio & Ball well when last heard from. I hope you will find it convenient to come aboard or send as there is no objection.

                   Respectfully
          signed          Henry Robinson