Transcription:
Feb. 19, 1861. Dear John: I suppose you think I should have written long before, but I guess the moss has not grown over
the one you wrote to me yet. But I did write part of one to you, and then I thought you would come and so I put it in the
fire. But perhaps you did not know that Mary and myself were going to school. We have gone most all winter, but Joanna has
not gone more than half of the time. But it closes just one week from to-day, and the teacher's name is Mr. Daniel E. Gilfillan,
and he is a Scotchman, like yourself. There is a lot of lumber drawn to make a new schoolhouse,-it is just a little piece
this side of Mr. Kinny's gate. It will be a good lot nearer for us. But we were very much disappointed when you did not
come. Joanna was sure you would come. But you must try and come soon - just as soon as you can. I have been up at Mrs. Margaret
R eid 's house just once. This was about the same time that we were all sick, and a lot of us have been sick again.- Mother
and Daniel and David and Mary and Joanna any myself but we are all better but Daniel. But there is someone knocking at the
door . In comes a colporteur (?) from the American tract society. His name is Mr. Sawyer. But I will have to stop now. Be
sure and write soon. It is miserable writing, but when I try to write well I