My dear son,
I presume you will hear, or no doubt know already that we have a small pox scare here. I write to say there is so far only one case and we know that was out in a secluded place two miles from town. Have 18 others in quarantine. There will I feel soon be three or four more cases. I saw the sick woman this morning and the probabilities are that she will die. In her case it is confluent, and she is a dissolute [French -?] came in here [?] two or three weeks ago and large numbers of negro boys got mixed up with her, and possibly some white boys, too.
The Town Council employed me to look after the matter, and I am trying to do so to the best of y ability with the purpose of protecting the town. Don’t think I am running much risk, but be this as it is the duty of someone to do what I am doing. There is good deal of excitement among the people but this will soon pass off.
We are all well. Hope you can get home if even for a short visit.
We have enjoyed Unc. B’s visit very much.
Let us know how John is getting on. Whether he cares for his father and sisters is [?]. Lizzie is well and wants him to succeed at something. He writes to no one as far as I know.
Affectionately,
JnoSApperson