McFarland-Russell Letter, August 22, 1871 - Page 2

Bleakwood Texas
August 22, 1871

Mr. Robt E. Russell

Esteemed Friend
I received your kind and very welcome
letter of the 20th, and was not expecting to answer it so early until Ma asked
me to write tonight. I looked for an answer Yesterday when Ma told
me there was no letters I felt rather disapointed[sic] three or four hours there
after Sam gave me your letter. Through love of fun, I was not it was
from you there until I saw your monogram. and you see I can be a
prompt correspondent sometimes. and if [illegible] that contract what will
keep me from writing, and you from getting answers sooner to your
letters. I was very much surprised to hear that Clark had told my
mistake, I think now he must have been glad it occurred there he would
have something to tell when he went back, but as it is told I hope there
is no harm done,

Ma requested me to ask to you procure for her some Jamaica Rum
if in Orange. if not there please get the best French Brandy you
can get, or if that is not there either get the cough medicine you was
telling her of whilst here she has forgotten the name of it. You will
find enclosed one dollar to get it. I could not get any [currency?] and
obliged to send in this way if the medicine cant arrive we [cant?] send
[illegible] what is due, Ma wishes to make some medicine, if you think