Friday June 12th e
My dearest Henry,
Fanny and I had a sad walk
in the garden the morning you left– "Where
is father? isnt he coming? "Shall I pick
this for father" were her frequent interrogations
I was not happy for I felt that I had given
pain to one that I love dearly– You who so
seldom do deeds meant for repentance cannot
imagine how many repentant hours my
wayward temper costs me– But your
letter from Albany came soon and
I felt that I was forgiven– all was
bright again– I have been diligently
employed since you left with the assistance
of my maidens in cleaning the basement
Abbey came last night– though she
cannot divide my responsibilities as Eliza
did she is willing to help all she can
and I am disposed to overlook short comings–
Willie and Fanny are very happy with her
we all went to the garden this morning to
put the canary vine and some other roots
she brought into the earth– the weeping
clouds gave us a fine sprinkling before
we could reach the house

Ann the 2^d has been called away to day
to take charge of a sister supposed to be sick
with Typhus fever– I must try again for
a cook – I am happy to announce to you
that Mr. Sitter has finally completed the
painting of the South Room– tomorrow I shall
endeavor to do something towards arranging
the books– Dr Mills has lost a child
and grandchild both in the short space of
one week– I have not been out of the
gate since you left us– I think you
had better have no time to make any visits in
New York– I will tell you the reasons
when you come– You will perceive
I write very hastily– I am interrupted every
five minutes and must write to Clarence
and Lazette– have written to Peter M
Morange– A Dieu
Your own
Frances