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School. Sept 12, 1853.

Cousin Ann,

I have a few moments to spare and as
writing will cost me nothing I will send a few lines.
Charley went without a murmur and seemed pleased to
go. He staritened himself out as stiff as a corpse and let
them carry him down the stairs. It seemed as though when
the cab started from the door that he had gone forever, and
when I returned into the house and went into the room
where he had been and saw his cup and plate lying on
the table and the empty bed I could not refrain from
tears. It was like coming home after the burial of a friend
the house seemed so still and quiet. Mother and I were
alone. I do not remember a time during my life that
I felt as lonesome as then. I have wished many times that
I had went with you. I have lost all interest in study
and can think of nothing but his wild expression as they
raised him from the bed to carry him away. He saw
Flint as he was getting into the car and he said, "Poor
Flint looks pretty bad."