[Some paragraph breaks added for ease of reading.]Hol. Nov. 7. 1849.
Sister Mary:
My thoughts are of you, and of home this afternoon, and I fain would look in upon you at this time & take tea with you. But this privilege is denied me. I do so want to hear from you that I am constrained to write immediately, hoping you will answer without delay.
I am heartily glad to hear of Mr. Smith's promotion. His good fortune is now coming all at once. Is his loom underoperation? I am anxious to know how that is getting along. How is lilttle "bub"? Darling baby, I must see him. In nine weeks, I will do so. Is Lawrence with you yet? What have you purchased, new? Tell me of every little article. Is William with you yet? Have you formed any new acquaintances? Make haste and do so, for I shall want the advantage of it, when I go home.
Do you see Miss Warren often? I wrote her last week. Would you not like to have the young people's Sewing society meet there when I am at home? Don't forget to have your lounges ready to be made when I go home. I have got a cushion made to my small trunk, and it is really very handsome.
I have been to Springfield since I wrote you last, and purchased a new hat. It is very handsome, lined and trimmed with cherry velvet. It is a colored straw, very becoming. I have to-day sent for a pair of velvet cuffs. They have just come.
I had a letter from S. S. Lawrence last evening. She is in Exeter. I think you spoke of getting some table napkins have you got them yet? Have you engaged any one to take L's place? Who have you to supply Hannah's place? Has Mr. Richardson called since I left? I should think you and T. would like to call at his house, and become acquainted with his wife. What preserves have you made?
You recollect E. Holmes was expecting to visit Lawrence last summer, but was disappointed, and decided to wait until one of the vacations this year. I am not sure whether she will visit you next vacation, or wait till next summer. She will probably decide before I write you again. If she goes, we shall spend one week in Lowell, and one in Lawrence.
I am swewing at a great rate. I have got some beautiful new patterns. I am assailed on every side, with the assertion, "I know you are fixing to be married," and nothing that I can say will remove the impression.
It has been a dull, rainy day with us, how is it with you? Mary Brown sends a kiss to little "bub." We often wish we could have him here for an hour. Be very careful of your health. Retire early. Do not drink too much coffee. Save a cupfull [sic] for me.
I am very much obliged to you for writing so promptly. Will you do me the same favor again. Let me receive a letter next Tuesday night. Don't forget. I think Stephen Merrill is not in College this year for he has not been over to see me. In our New Hampshire travels next summer, how would you like a trip to the white mountains?
I must now go to recess meeting & then to Faculty meeting. I do not think of any thing farther of importance. Write all the news. Mr Wood, the editor of the Lawrence Courier has a sister here in school. Love to all. Remember next Tuesday night. Ever so many kisses for the baby. I shall write Mrs. Dudley next.
I have just thought that you requested me to inform you why Miss Jewett left. I am not sure that I know, though she said it was on account of her health. She did not go in to any examinations while here, but commenced reviewing her arithmetic in order to be examined. She came designing to enter in advance, but gave up the idea as soon as she got here. Tell Lawrence I am anxious to hear from him.
Good night, your loving, sleepy sister