Franklin County: E. H. B. to Edward McPherson, May
31, 1859
Summary:
In writing to Edward McPherson, E. tells of Lizzie and her little boy's visit,
possible visits, and their future move to Washington. E. also announces the
birth of Nannie Page's daughter.
May 31st, 1859
Frederick
My Dear Edwardd
I have been trying for two weeks to get a letter written to you, but never could
succeed in accomplishing it in time for the mail, & in the evening, the
interruptions are more frequent & my eyes not so well qualified to do
their part -- besides, all last week, I was suffering from styes. Lizzie
& her boy have been here nearly four weeks & that young
gentleman makes quite a sensation in this quiet, sober household. He has taken a
great fancy to his grandfather. & the regard is mutual, for it is the
first child he even noticed. He is a very lovely, engaging little fellow
& compels everyone to notice him. Mr.
Williams is expected on Saturday to take them home on Monday. Mr Tyler goes with
[page 2]
them- he has been detained here by settling & arranging
unfinished business. It is now more than probable that you will find us settled in Georgetown when you get to Washington.
Mr. Tyler has nearly abandoned the idea of leaving us here, He thinks we are
both too delicate to be left alone, & he would be always anxious,
besides many other things to be considered-- When Lizzie came she told of a
delightful house now going up, for rent, two doors from Dr. Grafton Tyler's,
& the most desirable locality, in every way, in the place. When he goes
down, if rent & all will suit, he will engage it & if ready by
that time, we will go in the fall. There are two houses, alike & he
desires you will tell Lizzie or Mr. Mchaffey about it, for
we would love dearly to have them near us & they would be so much nearer to Old Point. I suppose you have had your
sisters with you & I wish I could have been there too, though it would have been a painful pleasure. Your Cousin
C- says she is longing to see you, & we have been looking for you so
often, that she fears you are going to disappoint us
[page 3]
after all. We
are truly sorry to hear you have been so unwell--do take care of yourself. I
think our air & water will be of service to you. We expect Susan Boggs
tonight, with Lucretia, who has been paying a
little visit to Baltimore Nannie Page has a daughter
a few days old -- she is well -- Mary Newport is just able to sit up a little
while during the day. Mr Page is still there, gentleman at large & it is
supposed will remain until the Dr. sends him off-for you would suppose he
expected business to come to him. Gettysburg must be improving rapidly -- it
will look like another place to me, if I ever see it again. As to our leaving
here, with all its tender & sad associations, I do not yet realize it --
the satisfaction at not being left behind, with your Cousin so delicate
& nervous, prevents any other feeling from agitating me just now. Mr. Tyler has been brother & everything to me & I would not let him see any reluctance
on any part, to do, or go where he thinks it will be best for the interests of
all. Lizzie desires her love & says when you
[page 4]
go down, she
means to take you round & introduce you to some nice ladies. Mr.
[unclear: F] too, intends to introduce you, if you have no objections to
Professor Henry & his family - his
daughters are worth knowing. I am truly sorry to hear Mr Wallace is so depressed
-- he is greatly to be pitied-- Why does John return home? He is entirely too
young for College- & Sarah has a peculiar disposition which none but a
judicious mother, I think would know how to manage. They are the children of the
Covenant & this is my strong hope for them. Expense haste &
write soon to tell [deleted: you] us, we may hope to see you before
long. All join me in love to you. Mine to all friends. I hope the Great Head of
the Church, will overrule all the commotions in your church for his glory
& your ultimate good--
Ever yours truly
EHB
I am glad to hear Maggie H. has married well
