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Joseph is getting along pretty well in his school I believe. He is a good teacher, I know. He has an Indian in his school. 40 or 50 scholars. Universalist people.

I hardly know how I am prospering. I hear some complaints of my punishing, which I have found it im- possible to do without entirely. People are very ready to blame a teacher as not being strict enough, but no one is willing to have their children punished. School averages 60 & up- wards, all weathers. Writing school Sat. R. M.'s Flatter my- self I am a pretty good "Writing Master," if this letter does belie it.

My school is very tiresome. I am so exhausted & lazy that I do not make out to study much evenings. I sleep 8 to 10 hours too instead of 4 to 6 as I did in the fall. Very bad habits! Mr. Parker's folks had a "donation party", on Thurs. 21. About 100 people there P.M. & evening. Presents [?] of 40, or 50, [?].

I am anxious to hear from you. It is most two months. I show willing to pay postage once a month, at least. Eliab must write. I am [?] to hear where you are & what you are doing. How does Eliab spend the winter? He must not forget his religion. Young Christians have especial need to watch.

Habits of idleness & inapplication of mind are easily formed, but thrown off with difficulty. The state of religion is low here & seemingly everywhere about. I hope you will write me some good, loving, oldfashioned letters, as you used to; have Eliab write, do him good. Ann too. I wish you all a "happy new year"!" This wish includes all friend & relatives, everybody I can remember, at least

      Your Affectionate and ever mindful son
                                                         Isaac S. Metcalf