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New Haven [Connecticut] Nov 18/63 [November 18, 1863]

Dear Mother,

I have delayed writing to you somewhat longer than usual because I could not tell you anything definite about the baby. She was for several days decidedly better and we thought she would certainly get along, but for the last four or five days she has been worse again although not as weak as at one time and we hope she will come out all right yet. Martha received your letter and is much obliged. She will not probably answer it at present as her babe takes her entire time.

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We are all nearly worn out with taking care of her nights as she will sleep only a few minutes at a time.

There is nothing new in relation to my school or myself. I shall try to visit you in the vacation.

Does Albert think of volunteering? It is about the best business a young man can do with such bounties as are now offered and one may not have to remain in the service. To be sure there is the risk of getting shot, but that is not much greater than the risk of dying at home of disease.

I am much obliged to

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you for saving me some of your nice walnuts. I should have been pleased to pay you the highest market price for a bushel of them. It must have been hard work to gather them.

We shall of course spend our Thanksgiving here this year. Some of the boys will go home and some remain here. We think perhaps Mary and Emma may visit us about that time. We have not heard from them lately.

Your affectionate son
Augustine