McClellan U.S. Hospital
Nicetown Pa. September 3th 1863

Miss Deborah Weston!

Everything has worked well with Almira. She has with little Anna arrived here in savety and in good health.

I was greatly troubled though yesterday Wednesday on account that there were so men sent from this Hospital away to their Regt. of which I was one of them. But so you informed one on Tuesday afternoon in your letter of last Monday that Almira was coming. So I went right to the Doctors and presented the matter to him -- and succeeded that I remained in the Hospital. The same time I applied for a pass for 24 hours which was granted. Whereafter I prepared for my journey to Philadelphia to receive Almira. I went to the N. J. R. R. L. [New Jersey Rail Road Line] first and inquired about the different trains. I was told that one arrived in five minutes. I waited and found Almira among the passengers with Anna in her arms at two o Clock p. m. Wednesday. I observed her coming out the cars called her - whereby we greeted us in joy and happiness.

I found both Almira and Anna in good health and was glad to see them. Anna would not come to me first but a little while after she saw me. She came to one and - when ever I come in her sight now she runs to me. When I have to leave her - she will crye.

We then took the horse cars and went to Germantown - where I had a splendid room prepared for Almira and Anna. So to have both comfortable quarters. Anna looks their - but I am astonished that she is so smart and knowing for her age. She can not sit still. She likes to run most the time - and feels happy when she is in my arms. At the dinner table she will sit a while with Almira - but then she comes to one on my lap. She calls one Papa all the time and this afternoon for the first time one gave me a kiss.

I had a pass till 12 am to day Thursday. Almira & Anna walked with me after dinner to the Hospital and spent the afternoon here. But Anna will not keep still. She runs from one Ward to another - and looks at ???? saying oh ??? nice - Papa. She saw a parrot on the window. Well where I could not get her away again- she feed him.

Almira and Anna are in good health. They will remain here with me till next week. I do not know though what day they will leave for I sign the pay roll just now. Almira will get my money with her what I have to spare. Which she will give you for to put in the bank again. Almira told one that Joanna was going to leave for home this Thursday.

I have spoken to her of going home this winter. The likes - it first right - so she is intend to leave Weymouth a fortnight from to day. I shall write again when Almira is going to leave Philadelphia. Excuse me for not writing much this time. Anna won't let one alone. I shall close with my kind regard to Mrs. Weston thanking her for the vest and handkerchief ???? what comes all handy to one this winter. I thank you also for your kindness in assisting Almira of her coming to see one in hope that you all are well with my regard to the Dr. & all the family.

Remain I your faithfully
Augustus Hesse