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960 N.Pa. St., Apr. 21, '98. My dear Mr. Muir: This is your birthday, as well as Merrill's, and I find myself almost
involuntarily seated to write you a little welcome. I do not know how many years you have been in this world of ours, but
I do know that God created a man when he made you, as well as when he made Adam, and as far as my share in your friendship
goes, I am duly thankful for this blessing of a friend. You will let me tell you so, will you not? My children love you,
and we all love to think of you. In a short letter from my dear Janet a few weeks ago she told me of your letter to her, and
also of one from your sister Annie, both of which she requested me to answer. She feels as if she could not write letters
to anyone but to me, and these come so rarely that I find myself hungering and thirsting for the dear child's Words. Sometimes
I get almost discouraged, but this I know I must not do, and so I gather up courage and hope and wait, although it is very
hard. I think you warmly for writing to her. She feels your kindness keenly, but cannot express herself. She is very homesick
and unhappy. If I were younger and stronger I could be of some use to her, for she does not love her attendants, and I do
not know what to do. But I ought not to be troubling you with all this. When you come East come right to my house and stay
with us as long as you can. Give my kind love to Mrs. Muir and your daughters. Merrill is hard at work and well. He sends
love. Charles is the father of a dear little girl yclept Emily Moores. Sisters Kate and Mina are well,as are the rest of our
numerous kindred. With love and wishes for many happy returns, Yours, Julia M. Moores 02421