M^rs Warren Rogers
Singsing — New York

My dear Fanny

     I have before me your two letters 4 July and 3 Aug.
     I have just been writing to Annie, her loss is greater than ours Fanny and we must help her all we can to bear up under it —
     At first it seemed as if I could not stay another mail in Manila, but must start at once for home to take my place in the ranks — But I have not to consult merely my

feelings there is also the question of duty — for the present I shall remain here. When the end of the year comes around and we have later news from home I can decide more justly on what I ought to do —
     Ever since the war broke out I have been chafing at my enforced absence from home and inability to take a soldiers part in the struggle — Up to the present time I could not honestly leave my post here — Now I have fulfilled my engagement to M^rs Peirce — We have paid off

her interest in the firm & I am free so far as that goes — Still there are other considerations which hold me back and I cannot yet see my way clear to obey my inclination —
     To me Robert's loss is irreparable as I write the words memory crowds on my thought so many instances of his loving kindly nature — He indeed "might bear without reproach the grand old name of gentleman"
     I fear somewhat for Annie's health — Don't let her go back to teaching unless it be really her choice — I should prefer to hear that she were travelling

or spending the winter in New York or Brooklyn with Mary and Aunt Helen — She need have no scruple at taking what money she may need. She is as welcome to it as she is to the sunshine —
     Kiss your little Fanny for me If this war is to last a couple of years more I think Uncle Ogden will have to go — Nellie writes you and will tell all about Katy — With love to your little folk and self & regards to your husband I am as ever dear Fanny Your affectionate brother

Ogden E. Edwards