[Some paragraph breaks added for ease of reading.]Princeton March 5th 1880
Dear Mother:
I am looking for a letter from you or Jennie. I sent her a letter from a woman in N. Hampshire which I hope she may answer for me or return it, if not. It is some time since I have heard from you.
We are in usual health. Horrie [his brother, Horace, also a student at Princeton] is going out to spend the Sab. with Lillie. Calvin [his brother, a China missionary, at this time on a visit back in the U.S.] is to spend Sat. March 14th in Princeton. Dr Ellinwood is to be here Monday to speak at our monthly concert. I was going over to see the Board [the Board of Foreign Missions of the Presbyterian Church] to-morrow: but guess if I see Dr E- it will do. I want to have the matter with the Board supplied soon: so I can make my arrangements accordingly. If they want me to go next Fall, I am ready to go, at last I think I am not to wait until I may feel ready spiritually for that time would probably never come. If I get my marching orders from the Lord I want to be off. I wish it would be that Lillie could go with me whenever I go. Lillie says you have heard of Mr Ridout. I didn't know what he will do. He talks of going to China: but it is not fully decided. I have been rather waiting for him: but am not going to wait any longer.
Guess I told you that Calvin & Julia made a splendid impression here. Mary said they never heard as good a talk as Calvin gave. I have not yet heard when Miss Davis is coming to Philadelphia. I should like to meet her. I guess, from what I hear from other sources, that Jennie is wrong about Miss Davis of Wooster being unwell. There is certainly a mistake somewhere. I hope you are all well. May the Master care for & comfort you at all times. Have you any one to stay with you at night? I hope you have. Please ask Mr Reigart whether that Church at Wanesboro is still vacant. The church Mr McClenahan is leaving. It is late, so I will not write more. Let me hear from you soon.
With all the love of a son I am yours
Robbie
Give much love to Jennie & the children
How is Willie's health now?