1862 August 8 Columbus

Dear Genl [John Hartwell Cocke]

I write few lines to thank
you & Doct [Charles Cary] Cocke for your letters recd
a few days since--I thank God
you are again in the enjoyment
for your usual health.  The last
overseer on Genl. P.St. Geo. Cocke's Est
in Loundes Co: leaves Monday
next & I am perfectly overrun
with business--The Government pulls
down & I try to build up.
I shall leave for the plantations
in the morning to get things in a
proper train before leaving for
Greene & hope to be able to get
off the Hopewell & the salt works
nest Tuesday--all on the plantation
enjoying their usual health to day
I learn--When I go to Hopewell
& the Salt Works, will write you
fully--I fear we have been doing
a poor business, but are able to do
better from this week making Salt
All hands pulling fodder, a plenty
rain now.  Our Respects to Doct.

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Cocke & family.  Cotton good
at present  Corn better than I
ever thought it would be on the
Est.  This must answer for you,
& the Doct. both--at Prest
Our love to you.  all well
               In haste yr friend &c
                   R.D. Powell
Genl John H Cocke

MSS 640