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                         Hilton Head S. C. Aug. 3rd 1863.
Dear Capt.
                  When I wrote my last 
the third since you left I thought I should 
not write again, thought it doubtful whether 
my last would reach you before you would start 
[word crossed out] back.  But your last letter written 
at Augusta contained so doleful an account 
of your health that I am of opinion that 
you will not start back even at the 
end of your forty days.
          Were I there now to intrude my advice 
as I generally do you know.  Should say to 
you to remain by all means till your health 
is well recovered.  Do not think of starting
back to this malarious Rest House till 
you are well [underlined] and tired [underlined] of staying in
Maine.  I blame myself for not staying 
longer than I did.
            I was sorry to hear that you are 
not (by reason of ill health) enjoying

[following text is written vertically in left margin]
his duty is better that a prince that survives the desertion of it.  Keep me posted as to the length of your stay. Write often.  My regards to all at home Rose Mary, Lizzie and Albert.  With love
            L. Alford