husband. Do come in dearest and never mind the despatches. I am sure the Governor never would be so unreasonable as to ask you to stay away from your wife so long. It would be too bad if he did, seeing that we have only been married eleven weeks, four of which you have been away. I am sure however you will not stay longer than you can help for I know that you are anxious to get home again to your little slave. I am happy to tell you that dear Mama is much better since the fine weather commenced. Dr Featherston is surprised to see the change in her but she is still very weak. She cannot walk across the room without assistance. For several weeks she was unable to leave her bed but now she is able to leave her [crossed out] sit up for two or three hours. By the letters that you will receive along with this which were written some weeks ago you will hear that I am staying with Mama altogether. It is much better that I am with her as she requires so