 | Berkeley papers |  |
We set out for Bedford Springs tomorrow, which is
three days sooner than we had intended—but according to custom,
as the time approaches for our leaving Philadelphia, the servants
to secure places in time, either pick a quarrel with us
& leave us or behave so badly that we are obliged to turn them
away— and for some days we have had but one in the house, and
have been compelled to take our dinners at Miss Plumstead's.
A comb has been bought for Mary, but as you did
not give any directions about it, it is merely handsome without
being costly. I feel very anxious about Mr. Smith's success,
but am consoled with the belief that if he fails now, he will
be more fortunate another time. I rather inferred that Dr.
Schele had other views from his jocularly remarking on the preponderating
influence of Dr. Howard & his two sons in law & Dr. H. & his one.—and I thought at the time that he wouldhave
had no objection to a like family influence through A. R.'s
family. But these petty jealousies or rather manoeuvres are not
worth serious notice, particularly as they may be easily defeated
when they are discovered.
We scarcely expect to be at Bedford Springs more
than a fortnight, so that your letter directed to that place
must reach me by the 7th of July. A letter from the University
ought to get there in 4 or 5 days—so that you will doubtless
be able to inform me of the result of the election—and if it
is postponed, of thatfact & the prospects of Smith.
It was our intention of course to call on Mrs.
Harrison, if we passed through Harrisonburg, as we expect &
if it does not too much delay our arrival at the University,
to pass a night there. We expect also to make a similar visit
to Mrs. Tucker in Winchester. Tell little Eliza, her grandmama
has bought a doll for her, who, though in general very quiet &
well behaved, is easily made to cry—but she does not cry long
as some naughty children do.
Richard Dunglison goes to England in a packet that
is to sail this week. He is very thin & looks badly, without
any particular complaint, & his father thought a sea voyage
would be likely to restore him, particularly as he will spend
some time with his relatives. He seems to be his father's
pride. He has good talents and the gentle amiable qualities
of his mother. John is probably married 'ere this. To save
time & expense he prevailed on his betrothed to come out to
California under the escort of Mr. King, his late principal,
and thus the same overruling sense of convenience which often
decorum, has produced the like result with this humble pair,
except that they have done from affection what the others do
from reasons of state.
Your mother joins me in love to the Dr. & the
children & Mr. Broaddus.
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