Barrier reports that his health is good and that his head is entirely well once more. Along with his letter Barrier includes a pair of shoes, a pair of socks, and two powder flasks, all gifts for people back home; the socks and shoes he does not need. He writes, "If you have not disposed of Hector, I want you to hold onto him for a while. My filly is still back on the dead line and I understand she is not doing very well." In closing, he wishes his family a happy new year.