Havana Dec. 22d 1858

My dear sister

The Str [steamer] Isabel landed us safely here this morning abt. 11 ½ after an uncommonly rough passage. The first part of this voyage was unpleasant enough to me as I was seasick pretty much all Sunday & Monday. But I got over it toward the end.

When we reached here we had to meet the news that all the best boarding houses were full & we went to a place called Gardiners, such a place too. Mr. S & myself have a room not as long as that next Lilli’s room & just about twice as wide. But when it came to dinner I asked for roast beef & they gave me what no one at home would allow to come on table.

But I must say the air in the city this morning was delightful. If it is the same every day I will be satisfied. The steamer that takes this goes tonight & I am writing by a light so dim I can hardly see the letters as I make them, so as this tells you of my safe arrival please excuse the rest.

Your beautiful buttons I wear today. They are very handsome. Tell Lil I have appropriated the beautiful little box she sent to the purpose mentioned. Thank Grandfather & Grandmother for their handsome presents & dear Aunty for her nice letter. The flannel shirts are very useful & very nice & I thank you much for them. But I can see no longer.

With much love to Father and the children I am yr affec

Bro

E.L. Welsh

As to my health, it is as it was in Charleston last. I am some what tired after seasickness &c