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Somerville, July 28th, 1852. Dear Cousin Abby, I received your letter in due season, but as I have had more care than usual this summer, I have not been able to answer it as soon I should have been glad to. I have been engaged in teaching this summer, and when I returned home at night, I did not feel as though I could lift my hand to do anything. Then again we were very busy in making preparations for Charles to go to California; Charles gone to California! I can almost hear you exclaim. Yes! That little boy you saw when you were here, has gone to seek his fortune in the "Golden Region". And if you will believe me, I came very near going; so near that I purchased a travelling dress, and went to Somerville to inform the gentleman with whom I was going that I had decided to accompany him. Aunt Sarah & her two children have gone, and have probably arrived at San. Francisco, before now, as they left on the 21st of June. Now I will explain to you why I thought of going. Last winter when Uncle Paige was at home, he exacted from me a promise, that I would go to California provided Aunt Sarah should go. I thought I was quite safe in making my promise on that condition, as there was no probability that she would ever go. Well! Last May what must he do but send for his family and also for Charles & myself. I was some time in making up my mind, and I finally concluded to go; but I found father rather objected to it, and I thought best to relinquish the idea. It was an excellent opportunity for me, as I should have been in company with Aunt Sarah & my brother, and it would have been very