Dear Daughter

     Thy letter of the 16th was rec^d by yesterday mornings mail: we should have had it the day before -- but it was carried on to Pittsb^g. We are all pretty well at this time -- Irene [i.e., the author's daughter, Irene Ida Pugh (b. 1850] has been complaining several days -- and was not at school much of the time last week; she had a cold -- and her head pained her for some time; she is now better. John [i.e., John Pugh, the author's son (b. 1833/4)] and I started last second day for Oil City, and got there the next morning about 9 Oclk. We found it to be the greasyest and muddyest place above ground. We left about 3 Oclk in the afternoon for Franklin -- and arrived about dusk. The next morning at 4 we left for home -- and arrived in New Castle at 7 1/2 PM. The next morning we took the Cars for home -- at which place we arrived at about half past 8. We (John) got a letter from Evan [i.e., the author's son, Sgt. Evan Pugh, Co. G, 1st Pennsylvania Cavalry] on fifth day -- dated Bealton Station on the 15th -- he was well -- and said the boys were all well.

He wants Sally or some other gal to knit him a pair of gloves, and a pair of wristletts: and he wants me to get him a pocket book; and a Vulcanized rubber coat, and a cap cover in Washington. John thinks if I do not go soon -- I will not be able to carry all he wants. I rather think now that I will start about the first of the month; and if I can not then get a pass that I will go to work there until I can. Emma is going to knit the wristletts -- but I do not know who will knit the gloves.
Margaret Ann, Sarah Jane, and children arived yesterday: they brought a letter from grandmother for thee, inclosing $5. -- and a likeness for mother. All, or a part -- of which I may conclud to forward to thee. John was up at Pittsb^g on sixth day -- and talks of going to work there for a short time: he may go in a day or two. I have not seen Aunt Lydia to day -- but think she is about as usual. Aunty Jackson and Cal were down here last evening. Aunty Jackson would like Alice to get some cranberries if she can, And we would also like a few. Aunt Liz was here all night on her way to the country. She left yesterday -- Grandmother has been very bad -- but better at last account.

As Cecelia [i.e., the author's daughter, Caroline Cecilia Pugh (b. 1847/8)] is writing I concluded to tear the sheet -- and send but half. My respects to Will & Mrs McK and family -- and all others who may enquire.

With love I will close -- Thy Father

Ask Will what chance there is in his shop for hands, and at what price.