To Dr. J.G. Holland
From ED

early 1878

Dear Doctor,

We rejoice in your repaired health, though it grieves us that repairs should be necessary in a Structure so able - yet when we recall that the "Souls poor Cottage, battered and dismayed, lets in new light through chinks that time has made," your predicament becomes one of congratulation.

You seem to have reared Games as rapidly as Houses, and we trust, of more lasting ingredient, though the Abode without a Nail, has its consternations.

We hope that you are happy as far as Peace is possible, to Mortal and immortal Life - for those ways "Madness lies."

"About" which "Ranks the Sunbeams play," is a touching question.

But I intrude on Sunset, and Father and Mr. Bowles.

These held their Wick above the West -
Till when the Red declined -
Or how the Amber aided it -
Defied to be defined -

Then waned without disparagement
In a disembling Hue
That would not let the Eye decide
Did it abide or no -