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Elm Valley- March 29th 1845- My dear Frederic,

It is a long time since we have had any written communication from you, and I need hardly say that I have been almost daily expecting something of the kind, for several weeks. A letter which Mrs. Lyman received from Susan not long ago, mentions that she had seen you, but as you said Hannah was quite sick, she has not called at your house. In your note to Bethia about a month ago, you say we are all very comfortable, if there is any exception it is in the case of little George [indecipherable], we all feel very sorry for the dear boy, but hope he may be better before long. We had hoped from this account that you gave, that Hannah had escaped the frequent returns of fever to which she had been subject, and we feel much concerned to find it otherwise- and we also wonder a little that you have not made us acquainted with your weal and woe. True it is that God only can help us in our sorrow, and make us thankful in our joy- but the sympathy and prayers of his friends were something to an apostle, and might be to us. Do write soon and let us know how you all are.

On Monday we begin housekeeping again with Mrs. Wright to help us. Her place is let- and David is to live with Mr. Hockbridge [who is this?]- she was delighted with your present and your kind and instructive words to her.

They are doing pretty well at the house above us- the young lady had learned to cry stoutly- but I hope will learn also to leave off as Walter did. Eliza is getting along very comfortably.

Sabbath morning- A circular was sent a short time since to the first society in Northampton, requesting contributions of furniture, bedding etc.- for the use of the sailors who may occupy the new seamens home in Boston. It was handed by Miss Jane Welsh to Bethia, who entertained the sewing society last week, with a desire that it might be communicated- and there will be something done for this cause by individuals. I wish to enquire of you as to the claim of the seamen’s friend society, compared with those of the seamen’s aid. That latter is Unitarian- are the efforts of both to be united, or are they equally deserving of assistance?

Caroline Bulfinch is expected tomorrow with her husband and baby. Mr. B_ is to supply at Hartford a few sabbaths. Mr. Nightingale has accepted a call to settle at Cabotville and will probably be ordained in May- your father is to preach there next sabbath. We saw something of Theodore’s in print last week- but the subject has rather passed by. The piece however, your father pronounced to be well written.

Spring comes in very pleasantly with the soft breeze, and the singing of birds- this reminds us of your promise, or your intention of making us a good visit. I have looked forward to it with as much pleasing anticipation as I dared to indulge- bearing in mind that “if the Lord will, we shall live and do this or that.” Your father has suggested that if there should be any vacant parishes for William when he comes, which he could supply during the summer, it might be a favour to him to be employed. But it is almost time to be going - The lord be with you and your dear wife and the precious child now and always-

Truly your devoted mother Elizabeth