Transcription:
Crete, Neb., August 22nd, 1887. Dear Bro. John: I was very glad indeed to receive your letter. I was wearying to hear
from you, but thought perhaps you were enjoying your trip to the mountains. But you keep on working, have given up your contemplated
vacation, and are now racking your poor brains and body day after day with the still harder task of writing the book. I know
the world and we all of us will be delighted to read it, but have mercy on yourself -- take it slow, and practice what you
kindly preach to us weak mortals (Annie and I). I am glad Annie is enjoying fair health, and am not surprised that she is
proud of her pretty wee namesake. You are the same awful tease ye ever was. I was sorry to hear of little Helen's sickness,
and am glad she has got well again. I would like to see the wee girlie. I believe Wanda is getting to be quite a help to her
Mama. Tell her I have been looking for a letter from her. And so your prophecy about David and Etta has proved true. I wonder
how the children like the change. We are all pretty well. Jessie's health is not very good -- confinement in the office is
not the best thing in the world for her. John is in Kansas. Has been putting up fodder and building a shed for the colts.
The weather has been exceedingly dry this summer, both in K ansas and Nebraska, and the the chinly? bugs have done much damage.
Joanna is having a good time by the seashore for the first time in her life. I am glad she could enjoy the privilege. Give
my love to Louie, and the little ones, Annie, Doctor and Mrs. Strentzel. Remember me to Mrs. Magee when you see her. That
God may bless and prosper and save you and your dear family when He makes up His 'jewels' is my prayer. As ever, Affectionately,
Maggie R. Margaret Muir Reid