DHAKA: American journalist James Foley who was beheaded by Islamic militants wrote a letter to his family while in captivity and recited it to a fellow hostage, who conveyed the content to Foley’s family after his release.

‘I remember so many great family times that take me away from this prison,’ Foley said in his letter, which was posted online by his family, reports The Straits Times.

‘Dreams of family and friends take me away and happiness fills my heart. I know you are thinking of me and praying for me. And I am so thankful. I feel you all especially when I pray. I pray for you to stay strong and to believe. I really feel I can touch you even in this darkness when I pray,’ he wrote.

Foley, who had been missing in Syria since 2012, was beheaded by militants from the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS). The beheading was shown in a video released last week.

In his letter, Foley also wrote about some darker memories. He revealed that he was held in a single cell with 17 other prisoners. They were able to find strength in each other by playing games and sharing stories.

‘The games and teaching each other have helped the time pass. They have been a huge help. We repeat stories and laugh to break the tension,’' Foley wrote.

‘I have had weak and strong days. We are so grateful when anyone is freed; but of course, yearn for our own freedom. We try to encourage each other and share strength. We are being fed better now and daily. We have tea, occasional coffee. I have regained most of my weight lost last year,’ he said.

Foley also expressed the hope that he would be freed in time to celebrate his sister's wedding next year.

BDST: 2055 HRS, AUG 25, 2014