(seq. 12)

quently rubbing her swoln limb. Her spirits remain good. But when she will be abl to walk about the house with tolerable ease, it is impossible to form any rational conjecture. We esteem it as a very great favour, that Elizabeth Pierce has been able and disposed to continue with her sister so much, and afford her so great assistance. Since the nurse went away, we have had a Hannah Prentiss; but she was unable to stay more than a fortnight. So I carried her to Boston on Monday, and brought out Elizabeth Pierce. We hope, she will tarry with us as long, as she can consent to be absent from home, and you can possibly spare her. I think, it is injurious on some days to Lucy Pierce to see so much company. Besides two of our Midway friends, who spend the last night, we have had no fewer than 15, who called this afternoon and evening. We are very sorry to have your expected visit to us delayed so long; but we acquiesce in it, as the will of providence. We hope, that all obstacles will be soon happily removed, and that our dead sister E. will experience renewed tokens of the divine favour.
I was happy to learn, that your people remember their good minister in these difficult times.
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The additional compensation must be highly gratifying to him, when considered as an almost unanimous expression of the people's good will.
on the 26 Ap. our neighbour [Tolman?] lost his only son. This makes 3 children they have lost of the cholera morbus within 10 months. it is a most afflictive providence. But I must say that they endure it, as good soldiers of Jesus Christ. The wife of Wife of Mr Holden, the wheel wright is judged in a consumption and near her end. Capt Corey has a complication of disorders, and, it is supposed, will not continue long. Otherwise it is a very general time of health with us.
This morning, Miss Stebbins [illegible - began?]
school in the new building erected for the [illegible]
pose by Mr Walley. She limites her number to 17 of whom Sarah is one. Elizabeth Pierce would also have gone were it not, that her aunt depends on carrying her to N. when she returns.
Lucy Pierce joins me in affectionate remembrance to our mother & all our dead friends. The same day, on which I received you last, I had a letter from Arthur of the 6th ins. He writes like one who is deeply impressed with a snese of religion, and who mourns his privation of religious instruction more, than any other inconvenience of his present situation. With affection and respect I remain your's vc John Pierce.