To Mrs. J.G. Holland
From ED

spring 1878

I thought that "Birnam Wood" had "come to Dunsinane." Where did you pick arbutus? In Broadway, I suppose. They say that God is everywhere, and yet we always think of Him as somewhat of a recluse. . . It is hard not to hear again that vital "Sam is coming" - though if grief is a test of a priceless life, he is compensated. He was not ambitious for redemption - that was why it is his. "To him that hath, shall be given." Were it not for the eyes, we would know ofyou oftener. Have they no remorse for their selfishness? "This tabernacle" is a blissful trial, but the bliss predominates.

I suppose you will play in the water at Alexandria Bay, as the baby does at the tub in the drive. . . Speak to us when your eyes can spare you, and "keep us, at home, or by the way," as the clergyman says, when he folds the church till another Sabbath.

          Emily.