I have been intending all the afternoon to write to you, dearest mother, but it is now past six and I am just beginning my letter; the children have been so much on my hands that I have found it impossible to get rid of them long enough to carry my intention into effect, so if I do not fill my...

I received your letter on my return from the country where I had been to spend a few days, and should have answered it immediately, but for a severe indisposition, the effect of cold, which confined me many days to my bed, and from which even now I am but imperfectly recovered. This must excuse...

As I have prevented Virginia from writing, Dear Sister, I must write to you myself in spite of the drowsy & stupid feelings which oppress me mama will I believe write very soon to Mrs Coolidge; she has been staying with Mrs H. Smith in the country & was there when Mrs C.s letter arrived;...

I have so long ceased to be surprised at anything William does, or rather at any want of judgement in him, that even his singular letter to you excited no feeling of that sort. he does what logicians call “begging the question” that is he takes that for granted, which remains to be proved. it is...

If you have not received Joseph’s letter my dearest mother, you will be very much surprised to know that I am within forty miles of you, scarcely ...

The next number of the North American Review will contain the article on my grandfather’s correspondence, which I now take the liberty to send you, in a pamphlet form. It is written by Mr Ritchie, a son-in-law of Mr Otis, and the particular friend of Mr Coolidge, and with a degree of candour and...

A rainy sunday, my dearest mother, gives me the leisure I have been waiting for to write to you, I am sorry not to go church, but much pleased to have an hour at my own disposal which I can devote to you. several gentlemen...

About a month ago I sent you ...

A rainy Sunday, my dearest Virginia, gives me leisure to write to some one of my friends, and as I have been owing a letter to you for a good while I shall give you the preference. indeed I have to reproach myself for...

I was just preparing to answer a letter from Joseph which to my infinite regret arrived a week after Susan had left us when I received yours announcing poor old Mrs Coolidge’s death. few, perhaps I may say none, who had seen so little of her as I did, will regret her more sincerely. on her own...