City of Mexico
Jan. 13, 1848
Dear Father,
I have only time to write a few lines by P. P. Ward, who has obtained an honourable, on account of his hearing. I have no news of importance. Respecting the difficulties between the two nations, I wrote a letter to Mrs. Campbell and gave the particulars of the capture of General Valencia. In none of my letters I have never gave the health of the Company. We have been very unfortunate. There has been 7 deaths in it since we arrived in this city. Namely, Charles Cells, Washington Shaw, I. Brooks, Martin Hulit, Monroe Jones, John Conon and Wylie Lamb. There is 9 in the hospital at present. They all died with the measles, 7 of those sick now have them. The mumps is also in our Regiment, but I have had both diseases. I am the fatest man in the company. I only want to spend the winter in Mexico. I will have leave for the north about May to spend the summer. Ward will tell you everything. Give my love to my Mother and all of my friends. I will write by May train. Don't be uneasy. I am in as fine spirits as you ever saw a person in your life. Your affectionate son
John E. Mercer