Dec 8, 1861. [no entry]

[Mary Ann Jane Gaines to Octavia Stephens]

                                                                                                Middleburg Dec 8th 1861

Dear Tivie

                I recd. your affectionate letter last mail and am truly glad to hear from you all again, I did think it strange that you had not written before but forgive you and hope you will in the future write often, I was sorry to hear that you have been having chills & fever hope you will not have a return of them.  I am glad that you have received the box of clothing as I thought the boys would be in need of these clothes.  Jimmie came down last Friday and has joined Capt Summerlin's company I wished him to stay at home but he says he does not want the finger of scorn pointed at him for not joining the army.  I have written for Dick to come down for me and I expect him next week.  I shall send for the boys Todie & Ben on the 18th and I wish them to meet the buggy at Palaka on that day.  You and Tina must send me all the garden seed you can spare & tell Todie bring all the peas he raised Tell Tina I should like very much to come to her in February but it will be impossible for me to do so as I expect when I get in Marion it will be some time before I can leave. All of us are quite well at present. Bertha is as fat as a little pig growing finely. kiss Rosa for her and for us all. All join me in love to you & family Clark & family Todie & Ben

                                                                                                Yours affectionately  

                                                                                                MAJ Gaines