summer 1885

Dear friend.

Your Note was unspeakable strength.

May I keep it's promise in solemn reserve? To know that there is a shelter, sometimes dissuades it's necessity - In this instance defers it.

Even to ask a legal question might so startle me that my Voice would pass to another World before it could be uttered.

In tribute to your fidelity I send you the face of my Father.

Thank you for the Seal - it covers the whole area of sanctity.

Confidingly,
E. Dickinson.