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another! I have been at Mother's and Almeda's almost all the time since we came up till this week. Samuel has been quite uneasy at being so long unemployed. I had'nt think he could ensure it a whole winter. Our family consists of four persons, to wit; John, who goes to school and is, I expect, a very fine scholar - Alfred Holman , a very eccentric youth, as you well know; but a good strong fellow, who does the chores, and waits upon the women - Mehitable & myself, and our husband when he is here!

            Mother seems in good spirits now - was very gratified with the chair. She loves little Charlie dearly- he is a sweet little fellow with red cheeks & bright black eyes - noisy as any boy can be, and fat as butter. Wants axe and some good sticks bigger than he can lift to play with all the time. Laughs out loud most all day long - just beginning to go alone. Charles doats on him too much, I'm afraid. I almost forgot that I am married when I am at home. Lucy and James are good children, but a luttle ? They go to school, and so does Jane. She is a real capable smart girl, and with right management will make a good woman. But alas! That right management! Who is patient! I feel that I am not. I expect to have her next summer & shall do as well as I can. I can but think it will be better for her than to remain where she is. There are many bad influences - taunts of children at school concerning her origin etc. She is bright. Lissie is a dear little thing. Perhaps petted a little too much - That is not