Transcription:
2. (Letter to John and Maggie, Jan 13, 1869.) I don't know that I ever before wrote so long a letter with so little sense
in it, unless some pages of wind that I sent to Dave. Even the first epistolary effort I ever made beat this, for it contained
information concerning certain operations of the Dunbar Gas Company and accurate statistics of the twin's teeth. I trust,
John, that whatever business you choose, that you will be successful, and I think you will. And may this New Year, Maggie,
have many a blessing for you, that you cannot at present see. Give my love to the wee ones. Ever your brother with the same
love. My address is Hopeton as before. (JOHN.)