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[Mentions a letter from Lossing which didn't reach him. Expresses his regret at how little he has to show for 53 years of life. Mentions the loss of first his means of living and now his health (to "breakbone fever" [dengue]). Discusses the false belief that Italy's climate is beneficial to invalids. Mentions the prevalence of both intermittent fever and influenza. Describes in depth the houses and humidity. Speaks of his wife Elizabeth Eaton Jones Redfield's pulmonary problems. Says there is much to interest the traveller, but that a knowledge of the Italian language and history, as well as Greek history, is essential. Gives a brief history of Otraunto, including its sacking by the Turks in 1480. Mentions his own lack of knowledge of the area and his desire to write its history. Gives a colorful description of the olive trees. Speaks of the "imbecility" ruling in the United Statesand expresses his wish to have Thomas Jonathan (Stonewall) Jacksoncommanding the North instead of Abraham Lincoln, his Cabinet and "half of his biggest generals." Compares the Battle of Fredericksburg(12/13 and 12/14) to the Battle at Richmondand the Bull Run Campaign. Begs Lossing to stop overworking himself and says his histories will benefit from his traveling to Europenow and writing later. Expresses pleasure that Archie is doing well and sends his and his wife's regards to Archie and his family. Mentions: Early Christians, Helen Sweet Lossing, Archie's mother, William Charles Redfield, John Gadsby Chapman, Temple of Minerva, Tarauto (Italy), Naples (Italy), Mahometanism, Joseph Kenny Meadows' "Falstaff."]