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[written upside down on top.] I.J.Metcalf Asst. Eng. Vt. & Mass. R.R. Growlscomer? Mass. My Present? direction?

Isaac. Northfield, Fr. Co. Map. Oct. 22d, 1848 Dear Brother Yours of the 16th inst. received sometime lately. This letter of mine is not dated at "Mobile Ala." becase I aint thar. But I came as near starting for there this week, as the boy try to getting his pig. I did not go, and probably shall not for two or three months at least. That quotation you refer to, was probably from some periodical I happened to have in my hand as I was writing the letter. I rather think from McClures' "Christian Observatory", a monthly usually lent me by my friend Dea. Dutton. It sounds much like McClure's own style. Some piece I read there some way connected with that subject I recommember. As much obliged for your information with regard to forwarding money etc. I have been quite anxious to settle up the business this month. We get no money yet though. I have been obliged to borrow considerable, thirty or forty dollars round. When it will come know not; strongly hope this week. It is certainly time -- most four months behind The Vt. & Mass. is terribly pressed, pretty fairly covered. Wiggled? terribly for a few months. First 90 per cent Bonds then New Stock at half price! Now finally probably a Loan and Mortgage of Road, is being successful. You speak of laying sticks on the Atlantic & St. Lawrence R.R. the trouble is I have no sticks in that direction; not even a peg to hang a hat or a hope on. You say it is the best place on that road. Don't know about that. One thing -- did