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                                                                                                                     Ann Dec. 1851

                                                                                                             Westfield Dec 25th/51

Dear Mother & Lucy dear. I have just returned from a suberb Christmas dinner, at the genteel hour of four P.M at Mr. Burnsey's - it is snowing to day so Mrs. B. come after and brought us back, manifesting himself and family as much kindness as ever: we did not spend the evening because friend Argyle was going up to his new fathers with his wife and it was most convenient to dispose of us first, which arrangement is quite pleasing to me giving me a quiet, uninterrupted evening to write to you. Miss Woodbury sits on the opposite side of the table also writing, we are in no danger of visitors for it storms severely. We have had snow for two weeks and some quite cold weather last monday was the first clear day for a week: it was cold and bad were the drifts, so 'staid at room,' was seated at supper when Mr Allis spoke of my large letter received and I found to my indignation, that his boy had carried it in his pocket all day having forgotten to give it to me! Well I was truly glad to get it, thank you much for the extra half sheet - hope you will be as liberal next time - tell me particulars, all your plans about work, - how you employ