Clay County, Fla.
Nov. 25th 1865
Miss Bardin,
My Dear Mattie, I find myself seated all alone this evening with pen in hand to write you a few lines, trusting they may reach you safe, and find you in the enjoyment of the best of health. Mattie I have no news of interest to write you, only I shall go to Middleburg tomorrow, with the expectation of hearing from you. If I do not I shall be sadly disappointed. I hope to hear from you tomorrow, and hear that you will be at M. soon. The time "thought short" seems long since I saw you. I hope to see you
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before as much time shall pass as what has. I even flatter myself with the hope that as much more time will make you forever mine. Should we both live, I trust I shall not be disappointed in my expectations. Please excuse my short letter, Mattie, and write soon. Direct your letter to Orilla E. - Stark, Fla.
I Am dear Mattie
Your Devoted
Albert
Though other voices greet me
And other forms I see;
Though I should never meet thee
I'll think of thee.
[Poem possibly adapted from an article in a magazine called The Carpet-Bag.]
A.S.C.
*Transcribed with original spellings and punctuations.
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