Indian Springs Ga  4th July 1848

Dear Elizabeth,

I had concluded not to write to you this mail, as I have not yet received any letter from any of you, but knowing that you would be glad to hear from me. I have concluded to write merely to let you know that I am still living.

Time drags off slow and heavily, and what makes it worse I cannot hear from you.

There is nothing would give me more pleasure than to see you all, except good health. By not knowing how to use this water, I have done as many others, drank to much and brought on bowel complaint, which has reduced me in flesh; I weight 116 lbs; some who have used it more freely than I have done, have fared much worse. I am now ell of bowel complaint, and think I have learned enough to avoid its return. That harried sensation of heat and asspressaion has left my stomach and breast; my appetite is good and I have a gentle perspiration without wearing my flannel.

This is quite a lonesome place to me; I have not formed any acquaintances, and have not met any except Genl. Taylor. He was at his sisters 3 miles from here and heard of my being here and came over to see me, and promised to do so again before leaving.

There has been quite a stir here today, the Ladies, Gentleman & Negroes were all present to the number of 6 or 700) to hear Iverson L. Harris of Milledgeville read the Declaration of Independence and deliver an oration, and to partake of a fine Barbacue.

Do not fail to write often, and let me know how you all are, and how things are getting along.

The oftener I hear from you the better (I hope) I shall be satisfied, and the more benefit I may expect to derive from staying here.

Hoping this may find all well, and as well satisfied as the nature of the case will permit.

I remain as ever your affectionate Husband,
James G. Collier

Ps. Give my complements to Mr. & Mrs. Gaulden, and all enquiring friends and request Mr. Gaulden to write to me.  JGC

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(Original in possession of Barbara Yancey Dore, Nederland, Tx)