The Eastman House, North,
November 6th 1919.Margaret dear,
I was horror stricken to learn night before last that you were in the hospital. I was on my way to see you at the moment. I feel somehow as if I could not have it that way, - that you should have to have the shock and illness of an operation! Miss Stevens told me something of you this morning, and seemed much upset and distressed, - we were upset and distressed together, my dear. She said it was appendicitis, - if it had to be anything I was glad it was that - something that at least can not return like an appendix. I am glad that your mother is with you and that you have home to go to to get strong in. Do, do be careful not to come back to work too soon. You are far to precious a person to take the very smallest, slightest risk.
I cannot be reconciled to your being ill! It seems all wrong. I had thought the last time I saw you this autumn that you were looking pretty well, - then the last time I was not so sure. I wish my autumn had not been so breathless that there has seemed to be not a minute to see the ones I want to see. Grace's visit got my work all in a muddle and I have been rushing ever since. She, poor child, is still vainly hoping that her ship will sometime sail.
Much, much, much love, dear, always
Nell.I had a note from Laura but written evidently before she knew of this catastrophe. She will be wild over it.