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Dunbarton Nett. Sept. 1 - 5 - 1854. - 16. 1854 Dunbarton, Sept. 1, 1854. My dearest Isaac,-

                         Last Friday my usual letter came not, but last night {Thursday} came one mailed Aug 22 at Mount Hawkins also one mailed the 26 inst. at St. Louis and the pictures. I opened the case and dear Isaac looked at me from underneath a broad oershadowing hat brim, just like himself, only a little browner methought  perhaps really so, perhaps only seeming, from the contrast with the light coat and hat. Then the additional hairs on the upper lip made it look at first a little older and fiercer perhaps, - but - I like it more & more - have about concluded it is a grand good picture. I had an idea you would shave, or rather not shave to suit yourself this summer, while away from us all. Now I should not admire that mustache or anybody else, and I like your face just as well without it, but am amazing glad you concluded to make an exhibition of the present condition of your countenance now I know how you are looking now. I have looked at that face so long tonight that it seems to stand out from the plate a living form, and so strange that it speaks not nor moves. O how it makes me long to see your very self. I am very glad you sent. It seems to me I can notice better you are really there living & acting, and I can see you again sometime. Dear little Mayo went to sleep tonight with it in both hands--had kissed it the last thing before the tiny eyelids