University of Virginia Library

NEW YORK, February 3, 1893.

[DEAREST MOTHER:]

This is a little present for you and a goodby. Your packing-case is what I need and what I shall want, and I love it because you made it. But as you say, we understand and do not have to write love letters; you have given me all that is worth while in me, and I love you so that I look forward already over miles and miles and days and months, and just see us sitting together at Marion and telling each other how good it is to be together again and holding each other's hands. I don't believe you really know how happy I am in loving you, dear, and in having you say nice things about me. God bless you, dearest, and may I never do anything to make you feel less proud of your wicked son.

DICK.