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First draft of letter, in note-book 59 (2) Martinez, 1901 . My dear Prof. Pickard: I should have thanked you long ere
this for your kind review of my humble but glorious life, had I not waited to learn what i could of poor much enduring Mrs.
Carr, She is now living at Santa Paula, Ventura Co., with a brother of Prof. Carr, well cared for, her memory mostly gone,
helpless, yet cheerful, holding on to life with wonderful tenacity like a storm-beaten,fire-scarred Sequoia. Some four or
five years ago, when last I saw her, her memory began to fail, though her health was good and in long walks she seemed tireless.
Then after one of the boys, Al, the youngest, had stolen most of her money, a trustee was appointed by the court, and she
went to the Old Ladies' Home in San Francisco. Thence to Paso Robles, thence to Dr. Carr's brother. Ned, her best boy, is
a hopeless alcoholic wreck, while Al keeps out of sight. The other two, Ezra and John, died long ago, as I suppose you know.
You ask when I left the University. In 1864, I think -- anyhow I studied 4 years there. Has he a family? I have a wife and
2 dellgitful girls fond of everything good, 15 20 years of age, the eldest to enter the State University next term. Is he
a singer? Yes, I sing, and some say my voice is sweet, but l am mostly a devout timid listener to God's songs. The universe
is one song. Where does he live? In God's outdoors - the universe at large. His home nest is in a picturesque valley opening
into the bay of S. F. where can his book be obtained? Published by the Century Co. Am now finishing the last chapters of a
second which is to be published this year by Houghton Mifflin Co. It seems wonderful to me and encouraging that you should
be so interested in my lonely life,spent mostly in the shadows of the great Am. wildernesses, with no thought of being heard
of, and that you have so truly seen and entered into that life. I remember seeing you at the State Fair Madison,1860 and
being surprised at your interest in my bits of mechanical inventions; also later a visit to your library, and I think your
son Charlie was one of my boys. I also remember your brother, Superintendent of Pub lic Instruction, and teacher of Bible
class in the Baptist Church. I'll try to find him. What is his address in Palo Alto? and next time I'm in Pasadena I'll try
to find your sister. Are you coming to Cal.? If so, do not fail to come to my house - Muir Station on the Santa Fe road is
less than two hours from our home.With kindest regards, I am, Faithfully yours, John M uir 02890