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sign contracts on Friday. I am to sign them on Tuesday, God willing. The firm is a New York one and has been after me two weeks. I've refused it twice, on account of Salary, but they finally came to my terms; it is a good part, not great, a splendid New York production opening on October 15 - and if it goes on tour later, only the largest cities. The performances are only Eight per week not a long role; (Comedy.) no study and nothing to do with the stage management. I have told no one and I don't intend to say another word about it, until the Contracts are signed. If I take it, we will open in Chicago in September, and I shall want you all packed with things shipped to New York; then, personally you can join me and travel back to N.Y. with me. I think I will live in White Plains with you for the [?]. if we can do well there this is all the news of business and please keep it to yourself until I am sure of it. Charlie Paulding is - I fear, dying. Kirke and Hattie are with him in the Adirondacks, where his wife and children and nurses are with him. They are afraid to Summer in [?] for fear it will State his [?] and altho I'm hopeing against hope; I should not be surprised to receive a letter or wire from Kirke at any moment. I return on Monday to town, but return next week to remain until rehearsals begin, that is if I sign, as I expect to do. Kittie is still a martyr, a saint also [?] a lesson in beautiful Christian patience and fortitude. I am always happy