Dear Friend Emma I now take the time to answer your kind and welcome letter

Oswegotchie   Oc 27 1864
Dear Friend Emma
I now take the time to answer your kind and welcome letter of the 16 wich [which] I received Monday last.  I thought that you had forgotten us until you [r] Mother came[.]  The letter was in the office when Sarah was their [there] but she did not ask for ELD she did not put the L in so that was the reason I did not get it[.]   but it takes me to get them.  I have not hird [heard] from Johny since two weeks before you[r] Mother and Austin was down but I sent the letter that your mother had and I saw Johny photography but I did not know it until you[r] mother told me[.]  it made me feel bad to I see him look so poor[.]  The letters that we right [write] to him they do not go through the photographs that Bill and I sent to him last July[.]  he as [has] not got it yet.  I don’t know what is the reason[.]  Well Emma I have not got any more photographs taken[.]  Just as soon as I do I will send you one but I must hurry up for mother and father is just agoing to town now[.]  Tell your  Father and Mother to come out and see  us[.]   Now Emma if you don’t tell Austin to come I shall come and stir you up[.]  so good by give my love to them all and also to your self. 
I remain you [your] true friend E L Dawson

Now Emma do tell Austin to come[.]   I shall look for you soon.
Excuse poor wrighting