.MTIxNQ.OTQ1Mjk

July 15th 1848 Dear Brother, I can scarcely realise that nearly two months have flown since you left and I have not written a line either to you or Mother. The truth is I enjoy writing, next to receiving letters after once making a beginning: but the difficulty is, I fail to begin, I suppose I ought not to say, because I have not time, but somehow there are so many calls upon the 'thief', that day after day is gone before I am aware. I received a short letter from you about a month ago but also had the pleasure of reading yours to Lucy & S. I wish I could have gone with you and mother; I long for a view of the mountains and valleys the broad meadows and beautifully cultivated grounds of 'Old Mass.' I suppose the freshness of verdure will be gone when I arrive there in Aug. but I anticipate much enjoyment from the scenery besides the quite different but still greater pleasure of meeting with relatives and old friends. I shall intend to pay your time under contribution, some at least, - for excursions &c. for I shall wish to make the most of my time and opportunity which perhaps may never come again: Joseph rather discourages me about going, thinks I cannot afford it - but it seems to me - though the avails of my school will be small this summer, - that the money will be wisely spent One engaged in teaching, year after year, in the same round, needs more than in most any other calling, the change, variety and excitement, yes, and improvement too, of an occasional journey where the mind can enjoy relaxation from care can peep out beyond its own narrow circle, and see how its fellow travellers jog on, and especially where one can enjoy free social intercourse with old friends: - the healthy action of the social

The "Whistle' is still in existence, though dilapidated, Lorrie (sic?) occasionally goes by, altho' sometimes he turns round. She sends her best regards to you: says you are forgiven your dereliction in forgetting her, which was a little impolite, --