September 13 1865 pg 4

But I am writing a homily --
not a letter -- but with all that
I have said, you may be certain
that I am bad enough in all
conscience. There is no "little fib"
about that.

I am glad that you concur in
my judgment of Mr Justice Lewis
oration. He is a good friend of mine
and I shall tell him that a certain
young lady who is a very good judge
of literary production, pronounces favorably
upon his effort. Dont shrink nor be
alarmed -- I wont tell him who that
young lady is.

Please don't doubt me Nellie. I
feel very sad when I sometimes fear
that you do not altogether trust my
sincerity. Believe me and pray for
me; and when the good time comes that
we shall meet again may our imperfect acquaintance
ripen with full unison of confidence and love -- already
full and perfect on my part now. And so do I

[left margin]
breathe a prayer when I say may God bless you and me. My kind
remembrance to all. I should like to read your proposed poem in
"New Milk". Style it "Lacteal Musings" and send me a copy.
Affectionately and in haste Harry.