Friday Nov. 14My dear Margaret.
This morning I am most happily surprised in receiving a letter from you. My thoughts have been with you ever since I learned where you were and realized somewhat of your suffering. I suppose one must have the personal experience in order to fully enter into sympathy. I remember your saying that this year was not as full of work as the last and you seemed fearful lest you would have too many idle moments - we little dreamed of the enforced quiet and pain. I need not tell you how glad I am that you are progressing so well.
I had written a letter to you telling you of my life here and had taken it to mail when I received the one from your mother informing me of your illness and so did not send it - I enclose it here as it may interest you just as much now. [no longer with this letter] As this is a bright sunny day it is possible you are on your way to South Hadley you will be glad to be there and I hope find the trip not too much I am so sorry about the effects of the iodine - your skin is especially sensitive. In fact you are rather sensitive every way. My advice which you are aware is usually good is that you take up no work until after Christmas. Have a rest which you did not get last summer. Come and see me for one thing.
I am glad you have Miss Griffeth for a friend. I admire her and would much like to see her often - a true friend I am sure.
With you I am very glad that your family have secured an apartment for the winter. They will not like the limited spaces but it will be good for them in some ways. They will enjoy the opportunity to walk to the various meetings and entertainments. Last night our ladies had a supper in the Town Hall and there was a large attendance despite the rain. I enclose the place card at my seat. [No longer with the letter] Tickets were sold in advance. We are agitating a parish house. You and all your family are anticipating the yearly festive day. How delightful to have the family together.! May it long be so with yours.
Thanking you for the letter to me and hoping it was not too much exertion for you.
Your loving Aunt Sarah.