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Str. Oriole Jamesville, N.C.March 31st 1879

Dear Farther [Father],

As I am at leasure [leisure] this evening I will drop a few lines to let you hear from Me. I am at this time running the Str Oriole from Jamesville to Plymouth daily in connection with the Stmrs Chowan & Lota connecting with the Jamesville & Washington Rail Road. Captain Burbage has left the boat to take charge of the Gipsey and for the sake of getting this Job for Solie I took the Boat untill [until] he can get Licnses [licenses] and I can learn him to work her. but by the time this letter reaches you he will be in Charge and I will be back on the little Bertie. I am very anxious to get back. Jennie hated for me to leave so much I have an oppotunity [opportunity] to attend to the Bertie's affairs every night at Plymouth and Frank & Bill does the running. Well enough about Steam Boats. I am very anxious to hear from you all none of you every [ever] write I would never have know [known] whether Mr. Bauers Got well or died had I not happened to see some one from up there and I never have heard how you have gotten since you last attack I am not certain but think it likely that I will go to see you some time [sometime] in April. Fishing on the Roanoke has been a failure so far. The cause I suppose is owing to river being so low & so clear but Storm that raged here all day yesterday will probably send a freshet down. My love to all tell Mollie to write me if you cant [can't]. I like to hear from you all.

Your Son W.F. Askew