Jan 10, 1862. Rosa had fever again, quite sick all day.

[Rebecca] Jan 10, 1862. Very warm. Rosa has fever again nearly all day.

[Winston Stephens to Octavia Stephens]

                                                                                                Fernandina Jan 10, 1862

My Dear Wife

                Once more I am seated to write to you though I have but a short time to write as the St Marys will go up to Palatka now in a very short time & this is my only chance untill the Cars go out & I fear they will not connect with the River Boat & so I write now.  I am very well weigh 158 lbs which is more than when I left home by several pounds ‑ The men are not so well as we have about 6 or 8 sick with cold.  I presume you get all the war news in the papers, but I will give you what is the latest news here. At 1½ oclock Wednesday the Telegraph was that a fleet of 6 vessels was off Green Island & near there arranged in order of battle & a short time after one was rec’d from Brunswick which Stated heavy firing was heard in the direction of Green Island & was supposed to be at that place – also that our forces had captured 500 & killed a great many. Our latest inteligence from England is that they look upon the sinking of the Stone fleet as a declaration of hostilities to the whole world & I have no doubt it will bring on a collision with the U.S.  I see from the Northern papers that the fleet destined for this place has been recalled to watch the Northern interest in commerce.  Capt Hopkins and Peterman have not returned but we look for them to night & then Lt Gray will come & when he returns then perhaps I may get a chance next, but I dont want you to look for me until you see me.  We are to be paid for one & half months next week by Maj Teasdale for our Confederate service, which will help some. let me know when you get the Syrup & be careful when you have it opened.  Tell Burrel not to get behind in his cleaning up but to make those boys moove about with life. has Mr Gardner gone out on the Lake?

                Give love to Mother & boys also Clark & family & kiss My Dear Rosa & accept many & much love from

                                                                                                Your Old Man