RK-120

Home November 25^th. /55.

Dear Cousin Dr. Bob. "Infant Sawbones."

Allow me to congratulate you on, on your sudden "sage" conclusions and on their successful termination, and allow me still farther, to discern in the "embryonic Dr. Bob." the germ of @ great and world renowned physic= cian. or (Physic-an). Already I seem to see the "lame walk, the deaf hear, and the blind see" through your marvellous power; to say nothing of the thousands who are showering blessings upon your head; that they no longer are afflicted

with gout, rheumatics, or any one of the thosusand "ills to which flesh is heir", and I see piles of the "root of all evil" lying at your feet, as @ small recom= pense for the great and marvellous works which you have done. I feel timid in addressing one destined to deeds so great; and I shall have to bid good bye (for the remainder of my letter) to the doctor, and address as of old plain bluster Bob.

In that name then I must give you due praise for having made so successful @ speculation; and hope you will continue as successful.

How long do you expect to remain at the college? How many students are there? and what sort of chaps are they? good-looking & clever? They must be if they resemble you. No flattery Bob, (allow me to call you so yet for @ short time at least)

I appreciate your sad feelings in parting with Jerusha. Were it not in hope of becoming more worthy of her you doubtless, could never have been prevailed upon, to rend for so long @ time the silken cord which entwined your young hearts; but "distance lends enchantment to the view" and with that precious picture in your possession you might almost fancy yourself by her side.

Mrs. Sanbridge and Hattie have been spending @ week with us. They meant to have gone home yesterday but got left, and will not go till tomorrow.

Dolph is not here to-day. They had an order from N. Orleans and have been so busy he could not get away. He will be here certainly on Thursday I expect we will have capital times.

So you do not "visit much". You no doubt are satisfied in thinking of Jerusha, and have no desire to see any one else. Then there is Miss Compton at home; & Aunt Nettie though she is married is excellent company. I can well account for your brave ^self denial as regards calling on the ladies. Now.

Mr. Robert M. Kennicott, M. D. write me @ good long letter and tell me all the news. Give my love to Uncle Asa, Aunt Nettie and all the folks. You know you always have it.

Maria.