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[Ch...o?] Jany [1st?] 1863

On yesterday altho it was Sunday I was so busily engaged that I could not find time to write to you. I was en- ployed from directly after breakfast in [until?] 9 oclock at night finishing my Reports. Dont think that I have become quite a heathen. The [?] was in the detell I was compelled to visit this place to-day and I was also forced to send in my Reports consequently was forced to work one Sunday. The [gent...] who caused the delay in sending the letters from Lancaster District will have to shoul- der the [?] which I have [con...eted?].

This is the first time that I ever visited this place. It has a population of several thousands and some very pretty private residences at the same time it presents quite a dilapidated appearance I had entertained going from here to Chesterfield CH but I am rejoiced to find that there will be no necsity for my taking that trip. I expect to leave here on day after to [morrow?]

[Pg2]

for Darlington but will remain there only two days from Darlington I will go to King tree and from there to Warron CH and there I hope to return to Darlington again which will bring it to about the 12th to 14th of the month. I am still determined if possible to go home as soon after that time as I can get off

I was in the Commanding officers office when I commenced this letter and now I have only time to tell you god bless you and good bye

Give my love to Ma & Helen and tell Mrs Callar that I hope that she has entirely recovered

Your devoted

Husband