(seq. 38)

At Brookfield we parted with Mr Sullivan, Story and Gray.
They had contributed greatly to lessen the fatigue of the journey.
I was so engrossed by their improving conversation that I almost
forgot the roughness of the road.
It was past three oclock before
we arrived in Belcher. The last stage before we got there was very
unpleasant, owing to the quantity of snow unequally distributed.
When we came to Mellens it was past three, on getting out of the
stage I was so dizzy as to be unable to stand without assistance.
I lay down till dinner was ready. I got up with the hope of
eating something and feeling better, but on sitting down to the
table I felt very sick, and faint, and was obliged to retire.
Mr. Strong was more than polite, he was all attention. He told
Lewis he would order something for me, and called for the best
wine the house afforded, a toasted cracker, and half a pint of hot
water, after taking it and resting fifteen minutes longer, I felt
somewhat relieved, and again got into the stage, with the hope
of reaching Northampton before dark, but was disappointed.
It was six o'clock when we reached Hadley, we were detained
for the mail to be opened, and then had to ride three miles,
to the bridge. It was dark, and rainy, and great part of the way,
the snow was very deep. At Matfield theydriver got
two sleighs, and we were soon at our journeys end.
Our parents were overjoyed
at so unexpected a visit, they however regretted you could not be
here with me. After taking some tea, I went immediately to bed.
I was so tired as to be unable to converse much, and our good
mother thought rest, and quiet absolutely necessary. I had a sound
nights sleep and felt refreshed, and like another person in the
morning. Lewis will leave town in a few hours. I am engaged
to dine at brother Edwards and it is past twelve.
You shall
soon hear from me again. Give my love to Mrs Walley, and other
friends. My love to Polly, kiss the dear children for me. You do not
know, how much I want to see you and them. Your L Pierce.

Dear Sir,
Altho' I was rejoiced to see our Sister, yet was extremely
disappointed at her leaving the dear little girls and yourself at
B. It would afford us much pleasure could you leave home for
only a few days, and we hope that should it be sleighing we shall
see you. My inability to express the gratitude I feel for
your attention has hitherto prevented my attempting it-
I am sensible that my improvement while under your
care was greater than it could have been in any other
situation- but notwithstanding am not satisfied with
remaining ignorant as I am, of much important knowl-
edge. I should be very much obliged to you for a letter
containing some advice respecting my future course of reading
&c. It is difficult for me to procure books, but shall endeavour
to read those you recommend -- My knowledge of Arithmetic [?]
know is very imperfect, and I do not know how to encrease [?]
I have been so much disturbed by Lewis's incessant talking
that I feel quite ashamed of this miserable writing-
Our Parent, write in affectionate remembrance to yourself
and dear children, would thank you to remember me to Polly -
Lucy says I must not write a syllable more, for she is ready
to go upon the hill-
Respectfully and affectionately
Your sister,
Eliza --