Lewisburg March. 20/61

Hon Eli Slifer

Dear Sir

Your favor

of this date is received —

I have No doubt but what your idea of John Working his Way back himself, as much as possible, is a very good one — Since he has Made his mind up to return, he is verry Cheerfull and Seems anxious to get back as Soon as possible —

Would it not be as well to Send him on to Washington himself, and if Necessary to Annapolis to get help from there, and [?] his way alone as Much as possible —

I am anxious to have him back as Soon as can be — and can have him in Harrisburg on his way by Friday mornings train —

Now, if you will be in Harrisburg on Friday to give him letters, and directions — and think it would be best to have him go on without delay, then telegraph me and I will have him Start to Morrow Night —

I am Satisfied that John then will do all he can to make his way back. If you think best not to be in too much haste, you need not telegraph.

I am glad to find that Mr. Cushman is in the Service again, and hope his Prediction with regard to this flurry of Johns will prove correct.

One thing is certain, it Will be a lesson to me that I will not soon forget

I am really Sorry to trouble you So much, but My great anxiety to get John back is My apology —

[Verso]: David Reber

1861