early March 1874

TO: Louise and Frances Norcross
FROM: ED

Thank you, own little girls, for the sweet remembrance - sweet specifically. Be sure it was pondered with loving thoughts not unmixed with palates.

But love, like literature, is "its exceeding great reward." . . . I am glad you heard "Little Em'ly." I would go far to hear her, except I have lost the run of the roads. . . . Infinite March is here, and I "hered" a bluebird. Of course I am standing on my head!

Go slow, my soul, to feed thyself
Upon his rare approach.
Go rapid, lest competing death
Prevail upon the coach.
Go timid, should his testing eye
Determine thee amiss,
Go boldly, for thou paidst the price,
Redemption for a kiss.

     Tidings of a book.
          Emily.