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Mouth of the Big Horn on North Side of Yellowstone July 6 1876
My Dear Daughters
When the steamer Far West left here on the 3rd I could not write you as I was too tired & suffering from Rheumatism. I am now getting better but am far from well. You will no doubt see by the papers that Gen Ouster's command had a fight with the Indians on the Little Big Horn, where Gen Custer & 12 Officers and nigh on to 300 men were killed during the fight. I with 3 others became separated & had to hide in the brush for 2 days & one night & had a narrow escape from drowning I escaped through the grace of God; many a time then did Ithink of all of you & wonder whether I would ever see you again. If I ever return to Lincoln I shall never go out again with an expedition. I lost many, good & true friends
I write you now to assure you of my safety, will be sure & let you know which way we go from here there is no paper, nor ink to be had I doubt whether we get back to Lincoln before November & may get in by the last of September with much love & many kisses I remain
Your affectionate Father
F.F. Gerard
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