Sherwood July 16th 1853
My dear Eliza,
I write a few lines to say that I will not be able to go
up before Wednesday. One of the carriage horses is very lame
from having been improperly shod & could not be safely used earlier
than that day. Mr. R. got back from Nelson yesterday very
much broken down from the ride. I fear I shall not be able to prevail
on him to go to the wedding. Henry & I are going up to Alta
Vista this evening on horse back to return tomorrow evening. M.
Bell & P. Henderson will return in a few days to New York and I
shall not have another opportunity of seeing them. Tucker will
come down on the boat to Scottsville Monday where we will send for
him. He will probably beg so hard, & be so jealous of Rosalie that
you must not be surprised if I bring him also to the wedding. I
suppose Papa & Mama are with you by this time, if so, give a great
deal of love from me. Uou are quite excusable for having forgotten
my letter to Papa, there was nothing of consequence in it. He
probably only thought me a little negligent of his request to
write, which he will find on his arrival was not the case. I have
a nice saddle of mutton which I am trying to keep on ice for you,
at Mr. Timberlakes, all ours I am sorry to say is gone. Will you
wish James to assist in waiting Thursday night? or will you have
enough without him? He could very well come up that day if you
wish it. Henry got a letter from George last evening. He desired
him to give his thanks to M. for her letter of invitation & tell
her how sorry he was that he could not accept it. He will be
thrashing his wheat and cannot at that time possibly leave home.
Robert is much gratified by his invitation. He has this week been
very sick though now well. He had one of his usual attacks and
after that several severe chills. He was at Redlands & did not
get home till last evening. Isaetta was much pleased at being
invited & will go. I fear A. & Ella Rives will hardly be able to
come as they will the night before be at Miss M's marriage &
will be to much fatigued after sitting up so late. Mrs. Stark continues
to improve. I am sorry Maria has moved as I fear she will
be do busy at home I shall not see much of her. Willie was much
pleased with Charlie's letter. If you have anything to say to me,
send the letter to the office Monday as the mail comes out early
Yuesday.
