late 1878

Dear friend,

I had within a few days a lovely hour with Mr and Mrs Jackson of Colorado, who told me that love of Mr Bowles and longing for some trace of him, led them to his house, and to seek his wife. They found her, they said, a stricken woman, though not ruthless as they feared. That of ties remaining, she spoke with particular love of a Miss Whitney of Northhampton, whom she would soon visit, and almost thought of accompanying them as far as yourself.

To know that long fidelity in ungracious soil was not wholly squandered, might be sweet to you.

I hope that you are well, and in full receipt of the Great Spirit whose leaving life was leaving you.

Faithfully