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Lucy W.G. Hampden Dec 16.'49 Dec. 18.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                           Parkers
                                                                                                                                                                     Hampden Dec. 13th 1849

I suppose dear Brother Isaac has been wondering this long time why Lucy did not write perhaps accusing her of forgetfulness & neglect and as Sam'l said to Joseph, I suppose I must plead guilty & throw myself on the mercy of the court - still there are palliating circumstances - we expected to move so soon, I thought I would wait so as to tell you the whole story. We have moved (Three weeks since) and do dwell in our own hired house, - The Mill has "shut down" - The men (paddies) are all discharged - I have made two carpets, hurried & fitted curtains too numerous to mention, prepared a butter firkin full of mince meat (which you must know is no small job) & with the aid of one Mrs. Finnigan picked & dressed 35 chickens (which are packed in snow for winter's use) besides washing & scrubbing with mop & broom, more than I can tell, and arranging thins which you know have been so long scattered in so many places. It is now 1/2 past nine P.M. and really I have not seen a half hour before since we moved when I thought I could consistently write to you. For a few days have had a lame shoulder & side so I could not well write - better now -wrote to Ann & Josie yesterday & today. We have a very convenient & comfortable house, besides being pretty - wish you could drop in & see us now and then - feel more settled than before since we were married. Jane is here, as happy as anyone