Providence. Thurs. Dec. 28.My Dear Maria,
It is not because I have forgotten you that I have not written sooner, but I must confess to the fact that Procrastination in
thethis matter of letter writing is becoming a habit with me. Advancing years probably have something to do with it. I'm just up, this bright morning, but my ideas are somewhat congealed, and I'm fearful they will not get "thawed out" in time to be of much service to you today.Xmas 1876 is a thing of the past, but its merry echo will sing in our ears for days to come. You have doubtless heard of our morning entertainment, when we were roused from our slumbers by the bugles blast, and "music in the air" heralded that the approach of Santa Claus and his train. I think the old fellow is getting extravagant in his notions. if he must have a Band of music added to his "price list". But he has reached the "progressive age" and no longer comes with a stealthy tread, but his "stately goings" are heard all over the land.
Well we had no doubt
thobut what something was coming when the solid men of Wanskuck, a score of them, filed in to pronounce judgment upon the entertainment provided for them. "Just think" of your "little mother" up, serving those hungry fellows, in the watches of the night. Then came the beautiful Xmas carols, which did indeed ring out sweetly on the frosty air. It was an aid to the imagination which was pleasant, and in the darkness we could think of the Shepherds who"watched their flocks by night.
All seated on the ground;
The Angel of the Lord came down
And Glory shone around."But I must leave the sentimental for the real [?], and invite you to the opening of that mysterious box, which I think exceeds all others for pruducing [sic] wonderful packages, when people are "not doing much for Xmas". It would take more time than I can devote to writing this morning to tell you of all its revelations, but will give you an inkling of my portion. It commenced with a pair of nice cuffs from Jennie, then came a beautiful book from dear Allie - "The Story of the Hymns". - "The Other Shore" from your Father - "The Melody of the 23rd Psalm" from George. A beautiful hair receiver from Carrie, a nice handkerchief from Auntie, several of the same article from your Mother, also an envelope containing a V from Mother, a cake of soap & bottle of perfumery came in some where in the list. "Not much for Christmas"!
Again & again did the word go round "How I wish Maria was here"! It was no fiction, and we are no believers in the practical fancy that "Absence conquers love" The bracket! oh if you could see it! Nothing called forth such ejaculations of praise and delight as did that piece of work which Maria wrought. Carrie, Allie, and I had a fine time getting the drapery on, and now so well suited with our handiwork we could scarcely wait for it to be on exhibition. It now adorns the north west corner of the parlor, and supports a beautiful Parian marble statuette. which was one of George's presents.
With all the pleasant festivities of the day, I could not forget how many sad aching hearts there were; and how many suffering ones were excluded from any celebration of the day. We must not becloud the brightness of another's life, because our own may have its shadows, but I am glad that we have hearts which can "feel for other's woes".
We are anxious to receive a letter from you which will give us a more elaborate account of Xmas at the Sem. then could be expected by a a [sic] Postal, although we have been glad enough to receive two of those.
Please remember me to your cousin May. It seems decreed that I must make her acquaintance by proxy. The more I hear about her good Mother, the more I regret not having seen her.
I have been so absorbed in holiday matters I have omitted any general information. Carrie attended a meeting of the "Earnest Workers" with Emma Burgess. A fine time is reported.
It is getting towards the time for the mail train to leave so I must bid you a hasty good morning adding only a huge package of love, and a "Happy New Year"
from Cousin A. [Aurelia?]