To Mrs. Joseph A. Sweetser
From ED

autumn 1880

Aunt Katie and the Sultans have left the Garden now, and parting with my own, recalls their sweet companionship -

Mine were not I think as exuberant as in other Years - Perhaps the Pelham Water shocked their stately tastes - but cherished avaraciously, because less numerous. I trust your Garden was willing to die - I do not think that mine was - it perished with beautiful reluctance, like an evening star -

I hope you were well since we knew of you, and as happy as Sorrow would allow -

There are Sweet of Pathos, when Sweets of Mirth have passed away -

Mother has had a weary Cold, and suffers much from Neuralgia, since the changing Airs, though I trust is no feebler than when you were here -

She has her little pleasures as the patient have - the voices of Friends - and devotion of Home.

The "Ravens" must "cry," to be ministered to - she - need only sigh.

Vinnie knows no shadow - brave - faithful - punctual - and courageous Maggie not yet caught in the snares of Patrick - Perhaps it is quite the Home it was when you last beheld it -

I hope your Few are safe, and your Flowers encouraging -

News of your Sultans and yourself, would be equally lovely, when you feel inclined. Blossoms have their Leisures -

Lovingly,

Emily -