Letter VII

Abel,

I know it has been many months since my last letter and you must be worried that you have not heard from me, so I believe I owe you an explanation.  I have begun my journey to you in Kavála.  I have been journeying up the coast and I have made it to northern Egypt.  This is the first place that I have been able to get a letter to you.

My journey has been difficult, but I have not been met with any treacherous encounters.  I do not want to count my count my hens before they hatch, but it looks like, if the gods be good, I may make it to you.  However, there is another factor that has been concerning me, my illness seems to be getting worse, and I fear that I may not have the energy to even make it to your doctor.

The sores on my hands have been worsening, and I  continue to bleed.  The sores have spread from just my arms and hand to my back as well.  I am hoping that I will push through.  I have decided that I will buy a donkey while I am in Cairo.  I will be less tired and my symptoms may lessen in severity.

Enough about me though, I would love to hear about your wedding and how it is coming together.  How is your fiancé and your family?  How is your life in general?  I imagine hearing anything better than mine will cheer me up!

If all goes well, I will arrive at your doorstep in less than a year.  I will try and write you whenever I can to let you know where I am and how I am doing.

Best wishes,
Elias