Jan. 10, 1849
Dearest Martha,
I hope you are not tiring of my letters. I know that I have sent many, and that you will not receive them for many weeks if not months, but I cannot help myself. If you wish me to write less frequently, please write back and inform me and I shall reduce my correspondence to not more than five per week.
News from the camp:
Molly the prostitute was fished out of the river with a logger’s pole and buried near the coal depot. The wooden marker was plain but finely cut and carved. It says: “Molly: The most popular girl in town. 1825-1849.”
Jeffers said a few quick words, mostly about how quick he was with her, and Rev. Perkins, a Protestant minister from the town, said a lovely prayer, that bit about Jesus loving prostitutes too. All told their sermons proved both humorous and inspired. It was quite moving and I have made an offer to the holy man to join our ragged band. We may be in need of him before long. He is considering the offer provided we do not leave on a Sunday.
Two out of the three Irishmen were also fished out, but I have no knowledge of their final burial destinations. The other man and the goat were deemed lost to the waters.
As I mentioned, this incident has left me with deep and abiding thoughts of you. I hope you are well and eagerly await your first letter after all these long lonely weeks.
Most affectionately yours,
Montgomery G. Jenkins
PS. At the inn they prepared a most delicious soup made of onions, leeks and salted venison. I have enclosed the recipe within, so please learn to prepare it before I return in two or three years. Thank you.
Chuck Schading 
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