last night whe tied up at dark & put out 25 pickets to watch for gurillas.  they are quite saucy along here but we have not been molested - I will get my letter ready to send with the mail - & it may be that we will not get to Memphis to night - if not I will be happy to confer with you a few minits in the morning. I wonder where you are this evening - have you a school yet - & how are you enjoying yourself? & when shall I see you again are questions that will press themselves on me  O I do hope we will not be separated an other whole year - but if so let us submit - cheerfully -  The White Cloud has Just met us bound for Cairo - it is the boat that carried us to Millikins Bend last spring - I met Capt Henry at the depot at Davenport a few minits before I left - his hand is not well yet - the Drs say that he will never have the use of it. his arm is shrinking away slightly - well my dear I must close I think I will write again at Vicksburg - but if I should not do not be uneasy. my health is good & my spirits tolerably good. yet I feel lonely. I wish the boat could go on double quick to Texas or where ever the 23 is -- Well my precious wife I must say good bye - give my love to Father & Mother & all the family - I remain your husband ever.  L A Garrett
