[This letter is not dated, but it was included with another letter by the same author to this recipient's daughter, and that other letter was datelined 312 N. Court St., Rockford Ill. / Dec. 11. '94.]
Dear Nephew [Edwin Newton Lawson, Susie's father]
Wishing very much to hear from you we decided to write to you. I often thing back to dear Conn, and as often my mind recalls the past happy days. We never forget the days of our youth I am sure, altho' time makes so many changes, our memories remain unchanged.
There are none of dear Thomas's friends we ever here [sic] from but your family and Howard Weston, and we think a great deal of hearing from your family, and about any of the relatives you know about.
I would like to hear about your son, and where he is located in India, and how his health is now, does the climate agree with him and also about your other children &c.
We have felt very anxious this fall about my dear brother who has been very sick. He is all we have left to care for us, and now we are alone, we cling to him, and he is better so he rides out and goes to church, but is not strong or well as he was before his sickness. My health is pretty good, but I have to be carful [sic] about going out in cold weather. We have had very mild pleasant weather yet.
Have you any of the Union books left. I have wanted very much to see one, but have not had the money to send for one. Have cousin Dwights [sic] children had one? Samuel and Albert are in Wis. the other four are in California in the vicinity of Los Angeles, in the Orange belt.
There are a great many going from here to Cal! If we had money we would like to go East, then West, but we have to live very economically. Hopeing [sic] this will find you all well I will close. please write.
With kind regards to all
M. [Marie] L. Holman.