September 20, 1898, Frank to Cressida, Manila P.I.

Manila P.I.
     Sept 20/98
My Dear Wife.
     Another mail steamer leaves in the morning for the U.S. and another in a day or so, so I drop you a few lines to let you know that I am well etc
     I have just come from the post office over in New Manila about one mile away when I went to register a letter to Geo. Starmens [? sp.] mother enclosing a check for George's pay, $430.00 He has been discharged and allowed milage [sic] to Roseburg, also free passage to San Francisco by steamer City of Puebla, Board and Medical attendance.
     He is very weak but they think he will make the journey all right. He goes on board this morning. Hope he gets back safe and has a speedy recovery. He has chronic diarrhaea I believe. The rest of the Company are well. Godfrey, Shambrek [? sp.], Sloune [? sp.], Day, Wright, send letters by this mail as do also most of the other boys.
     I send a box containing some "relics" of my own and other boys of the Co. addressed to Richards as it is quite heavy and would be much trouble to handle. I will have him deliver the packs to their owners. Take good care of mine. We are still in the dark as to when we are to return, but nearly all expect to hear before very long as to whether we are to stay here long or not.
     We were paid off here thru 17th, but as yet have found no way to make remittance. They are out of money orders at the post office, and the Paymasters will not write checks till next week some time, so will have to wait a few days. Will send at the first opportunity.
     Hope to hear from you soon again. The Australia is expected here most any time now. She is reported to have left S. F. on the 3rd. Ought to be here by the 1st of the month at farthest.
     The weather is quite cool nights and evenings and quite warm from 9 A.M. to P.M. or there abouts, except when it rains which is quite often.
     I am in excellent health. Hope that you and the boys are the same.

With Love,
Your Affectionate Husband
F. B. Hamlin