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                                                                                                                Aug 18 1847

My Dear son I feel somewhat alarm'd for you - are you "laying aside every weight &c" among all your multiplicity and heavy weight of care do give yourself time to reflect - that all these things are swiftly passing away - therefore let them set light on your mind and let them not take the place of better things - Ann wants me to write about the school house which I suppose ought to be done but I can of course say nor do any thing about it you must think and act your judgement she wish to that I should say something about S.W.F going into partnership with you but he has seen you before this & I can only say that I don't see any thing why it might not be a good plan but of course I know nothing about it we shall try to make a few red shirts for you. I very much thank you for the little bundle Isaac brought up this way pretty in great haste.

A.M.Metcalf

Joseph I want to say a word to you. I do really not see wherein there is, or can be any objection to Samuel's going in with you in business, as it seems he would like to. He is certainly a capable man and one likely to succeed in most anything, especially any lumber business. The only trouble would be danger of risking his property. He probably has 900 or 1000 in cash, about this time. He want to long his business. Some such thing could be a great helping to your sister & likely well for you. Think of it carefully. Relatives are better friends.