“Captain C. wrote me to come. down to some dinner and preside. God knows, if able, I should be delighted. Are you aware that I have been confined to my room some weeks, and mostly to my bed. I have gone through two severe operations, and have had a narrow escape for my life. Though now I am getting better, still my wounds are open, and I dare not allow them to heal yet, and I am so weak I can hardly walk across the room. I fear I am doomed not to see London for months, I write from my pillow. I hope you will make this known to our friends—that is I beg you to explain my situation to our friends.