all Americans among foreigners, but I do think in my particular case the obstructions on the Road to Jordan have been wonderfully augmented,—unable to speak the language of natives, I am not only cut off from conversational & social enjoyment, but stand like a deaf and dumb man when others are happy and full of mirth (perhaps a part of it at my expense). Add to this the heat of a climate almost insufferable, water warm and impure, musketoes of the most improved breed and unlimited quantity; fleas friendly and abundant, and Mexicans who can and will upon the shortest possible notice steal not only your every article of personal property, but I verily believe could nearly steal a chew of tobacco out of your mouth without your notice. I have had one complimentary visit from them in this way. I was one night robbed of every particle of clothing, watch, valice, boots, shoes, socks and even to my looking glass, wash bowl & pitcher. This was verry soon after I opened my office as consul and was intended I suppose as a polite compliment to myself and government, and to show me how appreciative of my presence the natives were. In all they stold from me about $400, leaving me like Adam found himself in the garden—naked.
I am much disappointed in the character and inducements to stay in the place & will at the earlyest day I can do so resign my position & go home to my dear Mag and children, where I can at least be happy if I am not making so much.
I have no local or general news that would be of any interest to you escept it be that War and Revolution seem to be the order of the day here, which is always the case in this Republic; the citizens heare are looking for revolution now every day, but of this I of course, fear nothing. I have Uncle Sam's Stars & Stripes waving over my office. An emblem of nationality everywhere; a protection, & everywhere respected.
Well, now I have nearly consumed my sheet and have written almost nothing. How is Aunt, how is Cousin Sally, her husband, her two sweet little children; how is Tom, his
