University of Virginia Library

“My dear William—Your earthly treasures
(that is, little John and myself) are running
wild in these Elysian fields. Escaped
from the din and tumult of the ctiy, it is so reviving
to breathe the pure air of this healthful
region, that the principal part of my conversation
is to tell all the kind people whom I see
here how delighted I am with the change, and
how happy they must be who enjoy it all the
time; to which Aunt Ruth generally replies,
`Those who make the change are the people
who are alive to its benefits; while those who

always live amid such beauty become indifferent
spectators.'

“By-the-by, William, what do you think I
am doing? I am learning to make puddings,
pastry, and bread! What I once thought such
a drudgery now makes every day pass pleasantly.
It would do you good to see what I
am called to witness every day; such regularity
and admirable system are enough to induce
every one to inquire how they can be produced.
There are but two servants, and there
are, including ourselves, thirteen in the family;
yet there does not seem to be more than they
can easily perform.

“We rise early (no morning naps are allowed
here), and although it was rather difficult
for me at first, yet, as Aunt Ruth prophesied, I
do feel better for it now that I am accustomed
to it. Good Mr. Brant has family prayers, at
which we all assemble before we enter upon
the duties of the day—then every one, knowing
his own share of the work, goes about
it cheerfully: we never hear any fretting, nor
the odious exclamation, `That doesn't belong
to me to do!' Our living is plain and simple,
but the flavour of the food would seem delicious

to an epicure. I am giving up the idea
that a receipt-book is as good as experience.

“But I do very much regret that I did not
acquire this knowledge a little earlier; how
much trouble it would have saved us! I feel
vexed with myself that I could be so indifferent;
but, having never been taught, I was an
easy dupe.

“Everything here is turned to good account;
for when there is anything we do not need, a
worthy but poor family near us are the recipients
of Aunt Ruth's bounty. Am I not in the
right kind of school, William? What say
you to permitting Marianne to visit her friends,
and letting me remain here a month or so?
Should you return in the mean time, you can
come out morning and evening.

“Our Sabbaths here are delightful. I attend
church all day (no headaches now), and after
our return Mr. Brant carries out the topic on
which the minister preached in all its practical
bearings. He is not a severe, exclusive
man, but one whose religion is like a cheerful
sunshine, irradiating all upon whom its rays
fall. He has taken a great fancy to Johnny,
which is fully reciprocated by the charming

little fellow, who yet fears him as much as he
loves him. He, too, is greatly improving under
these influences. He can wait now when
he is at the table, without crying for first attentions,
as he formerly did.

“Dorcas has become a real help. She is
quick, respectful, and willing to do as she is
bid; loves her Sunday-school teacher here
very much, and, Aunt Ruth says, appears to
be actuated by right principles.

“I hope you will accede to the proposal I
have made, and come here for a few days, to
witness for yourself what I have so inadequately
described.

“Poor Mrs. Gerrish! You have heard or
her husband's failure, I suppose? I hear they
are going to break up housekeeping. What
will her fashionable friends say? I am glad I
am no longer one of the number, for I should
be doomed to hear so many unkind remarks
from those for whose approbation she expended
so much time and money. Of course
I shall call on her as soon as I return, and
will endeavour now to prove myself a real
friend.

“My friend Emma is at the Springs for her

health, and, it is said, intends to give a splendid
party early in the season. With what little
interest do I now hear such reports! I, who
was the veriest slave of fashion, have learned
to glory in my release from its vexatious and
heartless customs; but, for fear lest I am
not yet wholly emancipated from its bondage,
I intend not to place myself in the way of
temptation, by attending any of these grand
entertainments.

“Pray, William, do not make yourself ill by
over-exertion. My heart is with you in tenderest
affection till we meet again.