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18 June
Dear Chris,
Since last night l have been thinking of you associating with young men who
may not be very sober in their habits. l write to impress upon you the
necessity of abstaining from tobacco and spirits altogether. In your state of
health the use of either, or both of these would be fatal to you, apart from the
consideration that perfect sobriety is the highest & best point in a young man’s
character who looks to promotion quickly. Do all you can to make yourself
stronger, and endeavour by your diligence and attention to duties to merit the
approval of your commander.
Goodbye, mind you write frequently home.
With my best love and wishes for your success.