62
Ames, I[o?] July 27. Wednesday Morn–
My dear husband
This is I suppose the last letter I shall write you & I have nothing in particular to write now only I want to tell you again how very happy I shall be to have you home again. It seems months instead of weeks that you have been absent. I am sorry you are driven with work till the last minute. I hoped you could get [sic.] home in the day time & so get a little rest before taking up your duties at the College.
Rejoice that your health continues so good. We are
63
all perfectly well – tho there is a good deal of sickness prevailing. Mother is at Mrs. Beal's now – as Kenneth is sick. [But?] I heard that he was better last night. The boys are very good and send love & kisses to the dear absent papa.
Hoping very soon? to see you.
I am Lovingly your wife Lucy A. Bessey.
64
time to think the matter over. I will admit that you know best, but it would be nice if you[r?] [?] she could bring the pay they are [?] of – occasionally. Now my love as I must take this dear time I will say good-by. With a boat full of love. your little wife L. A. Bessey. No proof has come.
Ames, I[o?] Aug 15/81 Monday P. M.
My dear husband–
Received both Postal & letter today which made me very happy. You have been in my thoughts very very often, and I am so glad for you to have this pleasant visit at your home – & to the meeting in Cincinnati.
Am glad my little presents were acceptable. How I would love to see those little children of Calista's. I expect I should almost envy her her sweet little [Margenta?].
65
I spent Sunday with Winnie at the College [coming home?] this [morning?].
Of course we had a nice time, but I was glad to see my little boys again. Called at the President's yesterday and found him sitting in his study. He had taken a short walk out of doors that morning – so you see he is [recovering?] rapidly. I enclose mr. Halstead's letter which came to-day. I hope you will be able to find time to [accede?] to his request of writing for his paper, as I see it will be a paying thing – [?] [?] out of the ordinary cause of things. Please don't suggest some one else to write instead of yourself – until you have taken ample