(JGC: I presume this is to Henry and Sophia (Henry's first wife; Dorcas Jessie Cordes was born Mar. 5 1848)
Dear Son and Daughter
I hope this will find you both and Little Daughter very well. I am sorry to inform you that I am very ill yet with shortness of breath and a bad Cough I have not been out the house since you was hiere and I am so bad sum times that your sister (JGC: Mary?) is obliged to send for the Doctor but gods will be Done he is the only help
Your Sister Ann (JGC: perhaps born Sheffield 1817 to John and Elizabeth Cordes) has never been to see me and I have had only one letter from Eliza since she left and I have had only one from you since you was... (letter torn)
You promised you would rite a gain pray to sen... (torn) and let me know how you get on and how trade i... (letter torn) and dont not all forgit me Know I am old
Your Sister is very well but she has a good de... (torn) with me for she is giteng old for She is now 46 ... (torn) She sent her love to you all and should be glad to ... (torn) and I remain your loving Father John Cordes (torn)
Farewell and god bless you