38

I wrote to Mamma last night. I received a letter from
Ann yesterday.

I hope I may get a letter from my husband this evening
if he does not come himself. I value his letters so much.
M^rs D^r Butler came to see me Saturday; she says I ought
to remain in Greenville; and not go to Charleston to be
confined. Major Perry is also anxious I should remain;
he thinks travelling, and the warm weather will be
so debilitating. I do not know what to do. If I thought
I would have good assistance I would remain here; I
am so anxious to be with my husband. Mamma wishes
me to go to town. I am at a loss what to do.

Thursday night: April 6^th 1843.

Little did I think when I last wrote in this
book that five years would lapse before I opened it again. I had then been
married one year. I have now been married six. I was then on the eve
of becoming a Mother. I am now about to be a Mother for the fourth time.
I last wrote on the 17^th of April; a few days before commencing housekeep-
ing. We took possession of our house the 27^th. Every thing was in order.
for we had been arranging it the whole winter. We commenced with a
small family. My husband and myself; a man servant of our own; and
a hired woman. The 9^th of July I was taken sick and confined with
my first child; a daughter. It was still born. I was so ill; that my life
for a short time was considered in danger. I was unconcious of my situa-
tion; and did not even see my child. After its birth I fell into a slumber
and continued sleeping for several hours. When I awoke I found my hus-
band sitting by my bed, watching me tenderly. I could scarcely realize
what had taken place; and my disappointment at my loss may be ima-