Mrs. Sunderland As John was a-penning a few lines to you

New Orleans, La June 26th 1864 Mrs. Sunderland As John was a-penning a few to you I thought I would just drop a few lines[.] I am well and I trust these few lines will find you all enjoying the same blessing. It was hard for me to believe that poor Darwin was dead but I suppose I must. It is a place we must all go sooner or later. Thare [there] is one thing Dar has been[.] A good defender to his Country as far as he was able[.] He dide [died] in a good cause. I feel for poor John[.] He feels very bad[.] He acks [acts] as though he had lost his last friend[.] I told him I lost a Brother that was near and dear to me[.] I told him anything I could do for him I was willing to do it and so I am[.] I have got a letter that Darwin wrote me in March[.] I shall keep it to remember him[.] I have not much news to pen to you this time[.] Give my regard to the girls, Mr. Sunderland and all who may inquire. I should be very glad to hear from you in return to these few lines[.] I suppose John has got letter ready[.] Tell me how the crops look in old St. Law. this summer[.] Nothing more this time[.] So goo by [bye] Yours truly and well wished friend A.H. Perkins