Derrivalley [1] 20th. Feby 1874

My Dear Sal [2]

          Maggy [3] is very anxious to have company but she does not consider that I may be lonely here  I was told by a young lady the other day that Maggy will soon be married.  I hope she will succeed in getting a young man that she will be very fond of  I know one if he was young, would fite very hard for her she is a great favourite with him   Do not be forming conjectures as you could have no [idea] of who it is.  I got no dress for you in Dundalk [4] as I saw none that would please me

    I believe Jack [5] intends going tomorrow to America [6]   I don't know particularly as he does not tell me any thing.  he gets advice from friend up in that [yeraster] which certainly to say the least of it is not friendly to me.  who they are particularly I do not know.  I suppose it will be as well to let Tom [7] go, if I can give him the money, as he is of no [????].  I inclose your letter from Newry [8] which I should have sent sooner, but I was vexed and weary about some things and neglected writing to you sooner.  I hope you will write and let me know when you intend to come home.

                                Ever your loving Father

                                        Thos McCullagh [9]