University of Virginia Library

Monday Morning, April 21st

Going to church prevented me from finishing
this last evening. therefore

has
to Not a very lovely morning either. for
and I tend to think quite sad.
Great drops trickled down on the window panes, and
this is rising swelling as
if anxious to escape from the bed which was made
for it. The thought was the first that entered my mind
after awakening from a sweet and gentle sleep this
morning. Bless God for sleep. Last night I was very
tired and felt more than but I feel
as well as ever this morning. I scarcely know
which had the greatest effect in restoring me
my sleep or my dreams. Both took an active part
Oh how sweet are dreams, but at
times they are horrific, not often though Dearest. I am again called to thank you for
your splendid gift the Cross Lanes battle.[1] How beaut-
iful! and how kind[in] you to send it. Thanks seem
almost as insults now. you have presented me with
so many gifts but may God spare you my own
and I will strive to reward you. I love gifts!
Now do not think dearest that I love you
for your gifts far from it dear. I love you for
yourself alone. for your true and noble heart.
Oh Charlie when I listen to Hallie's remarks of you
and hear him mention some of your noble acts how
my heart warms with love and - may Heaven
forgive me - pride. It is then I feel how unworthy
I am of you and then I wonder if it is right
for me to love you as I do love. Darling
strange thoughts enter my mind at times. Emblematic of
theof whom I have heretofore written.
Do you not think so. But I will tire you if I
write thus. Laura is here in front of me and
on the floor with her back supported by the wall.
Sober little Deacon! Charlie I wish you were here
to "shore her up" My fear is getting to rundown
to affect her and I do not like to see her so
sad. When I go to Claridon you must write her
great long letters and cheerful ones too. She loves
your letters very much. Who would not.
Auntie wishes me to ask you if have had your revenge
for the Cross Lanes defeat. John Chafee[2] wrote home
that he had. But time forbids that I should
write longer. Regards to the boys, &c Write real
often. I think I told you
to write to East Claridon did I not?