p. 1

434
[416]
1840.

Milwaukee, Jan. 17, 1840.

Dear Father--

I have received a few days since a letter from Darius and also one from William in which they speak of your attack of sickness, they both speak also of your partial recovery. I hope ere this time, you have entirely recovered your usual good health.

William's account of the Tipula was very interesting, but I judge that some of it is not from his own observation; what I want is original observation, made by himself, as to the habits and economy of the insect. ***

We had a great Whig celebration on the 1st of Jan'y and the Locos are to have another on 22nd of February. The Whigs roasted an ox whole; what the Locos will do we know not. Party lines are now drawn in the Territory as in the State.

We have a Lyceum hero that meets every Friday evening for debates and discourses. We have a great many very good speakers, who are perhaps destined hereinafter to fill large spaces in the council of the nation. I am one of the committee on meteorological observations and one of the Executive committee to arrange the affairs of the concern. I write down very day which way the wind blows and how the rain falls. ***

Your affectionate son,

Increase.

Seneca Lapham.

Milwaukee, Feb. 2, 1840.

Dear Brother--Darius

*** 'Tis Sunday and having nothing better to do,