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                  Little Rock Ark
                     Jany 26th 1863

Dear Sister Etta

        Excuse me for writing 

just a line this time for my eyes are getting sore again and I dare not strain them at all. I would like to write you a letter but it will be much better for me to try and save my eyes from getting so bad as they have been if it can possibly be helped. There is soon to be lively times again as our forces have resumed offensive operations.

 We do not know how soon one Reg't will

move. The main expedition started last sunday. I am well, all but my eyes and safe thus far. Our Reg't is still doing Provost Duty at Little Rock.

 I have had no news from you

since I wrote last, I hope I will hear from you next mail. The news of the capture of Fort Fisher reached us a few days ago.

 I send you two Photographs

in this. I wish my own were done so I could send you one of those. I will send you one the first op portunity. Dont forget to send me Monro's I have not forgotten him if he has forgotten me. Pray for me. I am and ever shall be the same to you. Do not take any trouble for my eyes. I think a little rest and care will set them all right again

 Give my respects to Lee and

your Father, and keep my love for yourself

                As Ever
                    Your Brother
                          John

Direct as Before P.S. Lieut Murray and I crossed

     the Plains in Company in 1861
     Lieut Chantry you know well enough