[The envelope used an 1870-issue stamp, and the dealer identified this as 1874. But the dateline on the letter appears to say 1894, which could just be a flourish on a 7, or it could be 1894. But a search online of the recipient of this letter revealed his full name was Allan Ely Nash, and he was born in 1849 and married someone other than Jennie in 1878, which seems to persuade that the letter is written in 1874.]So. Had. Falls. Feb'y.
52. 1874.My Darling Allan:
What a cold, stormy day only 26 scholars this morning & five less this P.M. didn't want but one session. but that isn't the way - "they do" here - and when one is with the Bowans must observe their customs.
Was so glad to get your letter and thank you for writing so kindly. Felt all the while as if I thoroughly understand your disposition and that you would not take offense at what I wrote. I felt sure you would see that such a letter was prompted only in kindness. & that if it occasioned from painful thoughts in the least, you would consider the fault, of the head and not the heart for I would not knowingly give you a single moment's pain.
But - I did so want to see you last Sunday night. had the parlor all to myself. do not know why. but the family seemed to prefer the dining room. I was quite willing however & one or two evenings last week was sole occupant of the best room.
Perhaps it was intended as a mark of honor - cannot assign any other reason for the act.
Do think it was quite provoking that we couldn't have the room more when you were here. and the moment you went away it was at my disposal entirely.
Do you think I will joke with such people. no. indeed. will stand right on my dignity.
Mrs. Avery had quite a large party last Friday evening. The Judd tribe from Fall Woods. I didn't wish to be present and absented myself purposely. Thought I wouldn't go to Mrs. W's. that night, but would wait until morning. Consequently didn't go at all. it was so stormy Saturday. Aunt was sick abed all day. was glad I didn't go.
Attended Mr. Fisher's church all day last Sabbath. heard Mr. Trask in the morning. Went home with Austin and Abbie at noon. Abbie's oldest brother was there. hadn't seen him for a long time.
Haven't been to Mr. Knight's church for two Sabbaths. They will think I have left them entirely. will they not?
Am invited out to tea to night but the roads are decidedly against visiting after such a storms. [sic] This weather is nearly equal to Thanksgiving isn't it? Let me digress right here. and tell you how much Aunt Abbie & Austin think of you. Think they are sincere or
theyit wouldn't have been mentioned. Austin says Abbie thinks a great deal more of you than she does of him. He seemed to feel dreadfully about it. If they think so much of you, it will not be necessary for me to say any-thing about my own feelings in regard to you. Will it? Am afraid you will not care for such a supply of admiration all at once. Think I had better reserve my thoughts until I see you - which event I hope is not very far in the future.About going home. If I go at the time you mentioned. school will be nearly out only two weeks more.
Do not believe I had better go but will think of it.
Thurs. Eve. Had written so far before you
rcame. but thought I would finish this just the same and not commence another.Have received the "Postal Cards" to night - three of them. but one is from Lydia instead of
MFannie.Where is hers - did it get lost on the way? Am glad you reached home safely. Wish I had been with you. Lay awake thinking what a good time you were having.
Mr. Locke called about 9 o'clock. He remained away purposely - thinking it wouldn't be pleasant for you to meet him.
Had been to Miss Chapin's & she and Arthur had told him all they knew. and he felt that his company would be intrusive[.] Well. we had quite a discussion about matters and things - and had a severe battle - words were the only weapons used. but I finally put my fingers in my ears & would not listen.
He used an argument in conversation which he evidently considered irresistible. and thought that mature deliberation would convince me of its soundness. I failed to see the weight of it. however and time will not change my mind. I think.
He called at the school-house - this A.M. to bid me good bye. and is going to New Jersey next week to live. What should I do now if it wasn't for you? Have been highly favored always in having a pleasant friend. Shall you object if Mr. L. and I continue our correspondence? How much I did enjoy last evening. Hope all of you had a pleasant time. Wish such enjoyment might often fall to my lot. Wish I could see you this minute. Dear Allan and tell you how much I love you and how very dear you are to me.
I hope this way will be opened for another visit from you some Sunday night. Even if you have to spend the Sabbath at the Holyoke house. Do Hattie & Fannie know about my New Year's present.
How could they know? They didn't get much information from me in regard to it.
But it is cold in my room this evening - and I must not sit here any longer.
With love as Ever -
I am your own
Jennie