Transcription:
letterhead Madison. Nov. 6/93 John Muir, Esq. My dear Friend. We have not yet forgiven you that you did not linger
longer in these scenes - fairest on both land and lake. Every step you stumbled on some fond recollection. - For many a day
you would have met old friend who make the world warmer, and gained new friends who make it wider. Unless you made unexpected
halts on your western way you must already have been at home long enough for your promised letters to reach us. No doubt you
have something to do that was perforce left undone while you were among Alpine glaciers - but the busier your life the more
need of such a recreation as I have long found letter writing to afford. The census vol. on Alaska was sent me ten days ago.
It is a new departure with 74 full page plates - some of them colored. - the best map I have seen of the Muir glacier. - But
thus far I do not find mention of Sheldon Jackson's nation-saving philanthropy. My account of his philanthropic endeavors,
penned before you were here was printed in The Nation? . No. 1477.p.289.