Dearest Mama I will write you a few lines to let you know I received your letter to day that were written on the 15th was sertenly glad to hear from you and to know that you all were well. I got the affidavit Papa sent and I have put in for a dis charge. The ship got in here a few days ago. I am at the hospital now and have been here for about four days I got some of my fingers cut and then it got infected and my hold hand got infected. I would have written sooner but I couldn’t for it was my right hand it is all I can do to write now. My hand has been cleaned four times already but it seems to be getting better now.
We had a nice time out at sea but my how sea sick for the first day or so.
I will write again before long. Had a nice Christmas and hope you all did.
Well must close as it is hurting my hand to write. Answer soon. Your loving son,
Alfred
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