Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)

Lt 5, 1866

White, J. E.

Hubbardsville, New York

October 7, 1866

This letter is published in entirety in 2Bio 155.

Dear Son Edson:

I am preparing to go to Connecticut. Your father is still very feeble. Willie will remain with him. I think I never was more perplexed in my life to know what is my duty. Your Grandfather Harmon is very low and cannot live long. He feels that he cannot be denied seeing his Ellen once more. He talks of it by day and by night, and here is your father so sick. If I leave him, I fear I shall not see him again. He is too sick to accompany me. Your father feels that it is my duty to go to my father’s dying call. I am worn with anxiety and want of sleep. 1LtMs, Lt 5, 1866, par. 1

Today, while praying over the matter, duty seemed to demand I should go to your grandfather. I have prepared you comfortable clothing for winter, which I send to you by Elder Loughborough. I hope they will give you as much pleasure in wearing them as I have taken pleasure in making them for you. I have sat up late and arisen early, before anyone was astir, to work upon them. Prayers that you may be clothed with Christ’s righteousness are stitched into these garments. 1LtMs, Lt 5, 1866, par. 2