Is he going to stay, or go into the grocery business? Do you not think you could get as
good a man
and as an agreeable one, or would you stop the mill if he left. My own opinion is, there
is as good miller and as good man as he is, but I do not pretend to judge or advise you
in anything concerning the mill. It is very warm here in day time but cool and pleasant
at night. I sleep under a heavy blanket comfortably. We have nothing but river water to
drink. It is about as warm as piss. It is ten o'clock at night. Everybody is gone to
bed, and I am sleepy, for I was up nearly all last night expecting a small fight. I was
really glad to hear of you and Sarah Ann keeping house. I know you and her can get along
well. James, take good care of my dear little children. I am always thinking of them, night
and day. Sile Baltzell bunks with me. He is doing finely, and he does not care a straw for
Mat Cunningham. My respects to Quincy, Brunton, Wilson, and Morrison, and any one else.
Write often, James. I will write to Lee as soon as I get back tomorrow. Direct Co B. 8th
La Inft, Reg of African Descent, Lake Providence, La. Remember William
