Transcription:
4 preserved as you have been hitherto, when in the midst of greater dangers then I know any thing of May our heavenly father
ever guard you and keep you in perfect safety at all times especially in times of trial I will be glad to hear from you when
you can conveniently write The girls join me in earnest loving wishes for your welfare. from your affectionate Mother 00730
1 1878 Portage 23d March Dear John Your kind letter, containing your photo- is received for which I thank you and the
reading of your article in Scribner for Feby in margin: 515 about your favorite bird, has given us much pleasure and has been
well received generally We have had a very mild winter indeed rain and mud, instead of frost and snow and a great deal of
very pleasant weather We are all much pleased to know that you have at last made up your mind to come home and see us all
once more, how long I have