February (Oh my) March 13th 1875. Fort Macleod

My darling Lizzie

Yesterday Col. Macleod left, taking Denny + a servant, on their trip to Helena. It was snowing hard when they left and continued to do so all day, a bad lookout for such a journey as they have undertaken. We gave the Col. 3 cheers as he left the gateway of the Fort + the [?] [?] started off in fine style. As everyone who had been away for any time from our Fort always [?] them-selves as mighty pleased to get back again, none of us envied them greatly, although we should [?] a trip to the outskirts of civilization. Nothing in particular happened after they lef, so good night.

My thoughts were [?]on yesterday. I thought today was the 12th, so I will say good night just now. This morning I got up quite early, 8 o'clock, and felt fresh. Sick call sounded at 9, and I went over to the Hospital[.] the snow was 6 or 8 inches deep, it was still cloudy but the sun was endeavouring to pierce through the thick veil. I found quite a large number on the sick list, but I soon polished them off. I then had my breakfast. Venison cutlets, sauce au[?] Police Mountie, Hot coffee, Hotrolls, butter + then [?] + molasses, + then a pipe. The I went into my room and began arranging it, + having [?] everything to my satisfaction, sat down to read. I read the [?], no, The Country Neighbourhood, until lunchtime. I like the story, and yet I do not. It seems natural [?] overdrawn, perhaps I will like it better as I go on.

After lunch, I went to work and made a small easel to paint upon, and then went down and had a chat with Conrad. Then coming back went on reading. Soon I noticed a stir goin on outside and found an expidition going outor rather preparing to dress, more deserters, three men this time. Allen + Jackson have the command + will I expect catch them. At dinner our numbers were reduced to four[,] after dinner Crozier and I played cribbage against Winder + Welch + beat them, then we tried [?] + beat them at that too, then I read a few moments but was soon called away to see a sick man. He kept me busy awhile + now I come to have a talk with you. It is now 10 o'clock, you are most likely in bed and asleep. I always like to talk with you at this time, because it seems as tho' you are so much nearer than at any other time. No one is bothering you and perhaps you are dreaming of me now. And I almost feel your spirit's presence hovering near me. I have a letter of yours dated Feb. 4th, open in front of me, + I shall proceed to answer it. I am curious (just think of it) to know what there can be to make you proud of Saida, I always have been. Thank you again and again for your dear photograph[,] I am so pleased to get it. True the rose looks very sharp + the cuffs large, but I cannot afford to criticise it even for fun. So I take that little bit of chaff all back + [?] [?] any more. Do I remember the [?] (that is meant for an 'S') a z(this is not)[?] three years ago? Yes I recollect it perfectly and [?] I [?] to be so tried, in order that I might see you look sorry and make you sit close and talk to me. I did not feel hurt[?] at your answer. I expected nothing else there, but I found out what I wanted, old girl, even if it was dark. And now let me tell you good night.