Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)

Lt 10, 1860

White, J. S.

Battle Creek, Michigan

October 12, 1860

Portions of this letter are published in 1Bio 426.

Dear husband:

Your letter was received by the family last night and read by me this morn. Was glad to have a few lines from you. 1LtMs, Lt 10, 1860, par. 1

We are all doing well. We think the ague is broken upon me. Yesterday was altogether the best day I have had. I feel quite encouraged that I shall soon get about. Willie’s hand has not troubled him at all. The children seem to be doing well. Brother Smith was here yesterday to work. The children helped him. 1LtMs, Lt 10, 1860, par. 2

I have felt quite anxious about you, feared that anxiety and loss of sleep would prostrate you, but your word “arrived at Chicago well and safe,” has quieted my fears some. Take good care of yourself and may the Lord prosper us all that we may meet again in health is my prayer. Let not despondency weigh down your spirits and do not feel anxious about home. I shall be (I think) in the parlor in another week, and will do what I can to instruct my children, advise and counsel them. One week may do much toward overcoming my lameness. I am yet a cripple, yet gain upon it some. 1LtMs, Lt 10, 1860, par. 3

I shall expect a letter as often as once a week, and will write you, if able, as often. 1LtMs, Lt 10, 1860, par. 4

You may be assured I miss your little visits in my room, but the thought you are doing the will of God, helps me to bear the loss of your company. 1LtMs, Lt 10, 1860, par. 5

Our nameless little one grows finely, weighed him last Wednesday. He then weighed ten pounds and one quarter. He is well. Willie is reading to Sister Benedict. He has lessons every day and I can see he progresses fast. My hand trembles, so fear you cannot read it. 1LtMs, Lt 10, 1860, par. 6

In much love from your Ellen. 1LtMs, Lt 10, 1860, par. 7