My dear Mrs MacLaren

I merely write to say "good-bye" as I may not have another opportunity of writing for some time. I embark with our Regt for China on Saturday on board the steamship "Hymalaya", the finest transport in the service. It is expected she will make the passage in ten weeks. Ten companies sailed in the Transit S.S. but have put back in consequence of the ship having sprung a leak. The men appear to be in grand spirits although one half of them will never return to their native country - as the 90th having punished the Chinese will proceed to India where they will remain for twelve years - and although perhaps it may be my fate to encounter many miseries even more severe than those of the late war still I trust that the merciful God who has protected me in so many wonderful ways may still continue his mercy towards me & spare me to return to my native land.

I shall write to you regularly, that is to say, as often as time and opportunity will permit me, and might I ask you to send me a newspaper occasionally. Every thing is turned up side down here all the baggage being packed up ready to be put on board. I am sorry I have so little news to give you but look forward to the pleasure of seeing you in a few years when I hope to return with my captaincy.

I remain
my dear Mrs MacLaren
yours very affectionately,

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