Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)

Lt 28, 1861

Hall, Lucinda

Battle Creek, Michigan

September 21, 1861

Previously unpublished.

Dear Sister Lucinda:

We were very much disappointed in not meeting you at Rochester. If I had thought you could not come, I should have ventured to have got another girl, but I hated to have a stranger in my family. I have been waiting for the Lord to raise me up help. Have feared to solicit help, fearing I should get those who would only be a burden, and I know I have burdens enough. 1LtMs, Lt 28, 1861, par. 1

We have been from home eight weeks. We rode all day Tuesday and arrived at home at one o’clock a.m. We walked up from the depot and found a light burning. I knew at once someone was sick. We found Sister Benedict watching with Edson. He had been dangerously sick with dysentery. 1LtMs, Lt 28, 1861, par. 2

Monday, the 23rd

Edson had a relapse. He is still very sick. We know not how the case may turn with him. When we got home we found Jenny had taken charge of Edson one week, day and night, and had done all her work. We got Louisa Bogardus. She is a great clumsy, noisy, ignorant girl. Can’t cook. Martha A. came up yesterday and cooked for us. 1LtMs, Lt 28, 1861, par. 3

Please let me know whether you shall come this winter or not. 1LtMs, Lt 28, 1861, par. 4

Poor Edson. He is nothing but skin and bones. I am just going to the store to get flannel for Edson to wear, for his blood is most all gone. Our prayer is for God to spare his life. We cannot give him up now. Mrs. Purple is tending him. 1LtMs, Lt 28, 1861, par. 5

We have received no letter from you explaining why you disappointed us. 1LtMs, Lt 28, 1861, par. 6

In much love. 1LtMs, Lt 28, 1861, par. 7