RK-689

The Grove Jan 6th 1859 - Dining Room. Afternoon.

Dear, my Brother -

Your letter to Maj written New Years day, was received by to days mail We are thankful for small favors; where we can't have great ones - We miss those long letters we used to get, but we know you are too busy to write them, and therefore we don't mean to scold you for not writing.

I had a letter from Mr Chase to day; He has now gone to Springfield. We shall expect him home next week. He has been here long enough for us to miss him when he is gone.

We were right glad to hear of Fathers safe arrival in Washington; I really hope he will be well, and injoy himself during his stay at the "Stimsonian".

I was interupted just as I finished that last sentance, to go back to

the machine, - where I had been most of the day - to sew for Aunt Dele - Our machine, is a great comfort in one respect, we sew so much faster and more; but alays! we do not get one bit more leasure - once in a while not often however - I am temptnt to wish we had never seen the machine, I get so tired of stiching. forever; sometimes I wonder where all the sewing comes from; but then it is plain enough, for we do all our own sewing, and lots for other folk, and we used to hire quantities done. We have even made caps for the boys, and our own shoes this winter.

I was Eighteen yesterday, I wonder if most girls are as ignorant at that age as I am, I thought to have studied and learned a great deal this winter but some way the winter has half gone and I cannot see wherein I

have improved - except that I can sew better on the machine, and have read some new books.

I think all the "smartness" of this family is concentrated in the boys - and the girls are only ordinary sort of creatures. Perhaps it is all my own fault, but seems to me if it was in me it would come out. I feel ashamed every day when I hear people talking on subjects which I ought to be familiar with to find I know nothing about them.

This has been a [illegible] quiet winter - we never had so little company. and I have not been away since the time of the State Fair.

Of this snowing hard, I think we shall have sleighing.

Maj has gone to Chicago; he may come home to night but, will probably remain until next day.

We are lonely enough now that

Father and Mr Chase are both gone

I am cutting a wisdom tooth and I suppose that is what makes me feel so cross - I hope after it comes through I shall feel be wiser.

Aunt Dele and Mother are as usual "discussing" the Aunts, cousins, ect.

I am tired as I can be so you must excuse me for not writing a more interesting letter.

I do dislike gossip - gossip - gossip - all the time.

We were at the Folly yesterday. They are the most miserable family I know of -

Take good care of Father.

With much love

Sister Dalce -