Sat. morning.Dear Lucy,
I write a few lines if my hand does not shake too badly. I am all right, but get pretty tired. I sleep better than for some time - have had only one bad night this week. Persis is here this morning, helping Mary cook and ironing some dresses, and I have been trying to put your room in order for Emma. I am not hurrying much today. I hope to send your waist & skirt the first of the week. How is your cold? And do you keep better? Is Mr. T- still sweet? Did you go Thursday night and how did things go? One week from to-night and you will be at the banquet if all is well. It will be a shame if you cannot stay till Mon. if you wish. How many years are you expected to teach for low wages, for experience? I hope you have written to Worcester and H-n, and think you better write to Belchertown too. I can't see as it will do any harm and it may be a good thing.
These papers came from Gardner after Mary wrote. Better send the instructions back here - they got rather mixed with them, but you can see what to do - you have to have a witness. If you wish to have the check sent here I will put them with your papers and you can wait till you get home it will be so soon - then you wont [sic] have to keep them there or send them indorsed [sic] through the mail. I must stop to get this into the mail. Take care of yourself and don't worry.
Much love,
Mama.Carrie was sure you was in need of a pocket and wished me to send this for you to use. [no longer with the letter]