Transcription:
4 we had what is called a grand time but these big eating parties never seem to me to pay for the trouble they make though
all seem to enjoy them immensely A crust by a brook side out on the mountains with God is more to me than all beyond comparison-
Nevertheless these poor legs in their weariness do enjoy a soft bed at times plenty of nourishment. I had another grand turkey
feast a week ago Coming home here I left my boat at Martinez 30 miles up the bay walked to Oakland across the top of Mt Diablo,
on the way called at my friends the Strentzels who have eighty acres of choice orchards vineyards where I rested two days,
my first rest in six weeks, they pitted my weary looks, made me eat, sleep stuffing me with turkey, chicken, beef, fruits,
jellies, in the most extravagant manner imaginable begged me to stay a month. Last eve dined at a French friends in the city
you would have been surprised to see so temp- erate a Scotchman doing such justice to French dishes The fact is I ve been
hungry ever since starving in the Mtn Canons. This evening the gents would ask me how I felt while starving? Why I did not
die like other people How many bears I had seen - deer etc How deep the snow is now where the snow line is located etc. Then
up stairs we chat sing play piano etc then I slip of from the company write this. Now it near midnight I must slip from thee
also wishing you David all your dear family goodnight with love