Transcription:
4 What varied and interesting experiences you have had since then. I have long settled down to a prosaic and dull business
career. I am always fond of travel and extremely partial to the picturesque inland streams, seated in my canoe. I have canoed
down the Thames England, and the Nekar? Germany besides many rivers in Iowa Illinois. But those cruises are only for recreation
and pleasure. My father died in 1879. After he retired from business he travelled abroad two years, and soon after his return,
he died. He was a noble man - selfmade and big hearted. Now? Mr. Muir excuse this long scattering letter. I would be greatly
pleased to hear from you, you interested me when a boy, you now interest me as a great man. If you ever come to St Louis don't
fail to call on me. Yours very truly Marcius C. Smith.