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 thing that keeps me here this winter and that is we are fixed to make one thousand dollars apiece this winter if we have no bad luck and I think that is worth staying for, and if mules are as high in the Spring as they are now we have that much now, and I think they will be.

I saw Frank Wilcox and the Old Man Lawson yesterday. They are well, both mining. Frank told me that Mr. Hoffman and family had arrived in this valley and are living for the present some five miles from town. I intended to go and see them today but our mules strayed off and I did not find them till afternoon and then it was too late. But I am going to see them the next time I come into this valley. I would like to see them very much.

There are some four companies of soldiers stationed in this valley now. I was through their camp today. The Indians are all quiet at present and think they will be for some time but they may break out again next summer.

I received a letter from Jim Hollister two weeks ago. He is living in Portland. . . . Tell the children to be good and patient for I will be home next spring and bring them all some presents. Tell Fred I have a gun here. I wish he had it but he must wait to get it till I come. Send this to Kate and let her read it and it will answer for all, and write to me direct Jacksonville, Rouje River, Oregon. Give my love to all. I have seen no one that I know that has come to this country this season. No more at present. Write soon.

Your affectionate son

John R. Tice

Four Miles South of Jacksonville,

O. T. Jan. 11th, 1854.

Dear Father and Mother,

... We are camped on Mr. Hoffman' farm at present