(seq. 1)

Danby 2nd Aug 13th 1843

Dear Cousins

Cousin Elisha Lapham & Joseph,
his eldest son (a bright boy of about 17)
are expecting to start for Easton tomorrow morn
and when they return to come by the way of
Center-Falls; So I improve the opportunity to let
you know that Sis and myself arrived
safe home Seventh day afternoon, we had
a pleasant ride the day we started from
your house, it was not quite as cold as we
expected, we called at Salem, arrived at
[H--- Ellvells??] about a minute and half before two
oclock. P.M. Landed Safe to Uncle [JS??]. little
before dark; and you must know, - though I
could hardly beleive my own eyes - that the
little black - call him what you are a mind too -
didn't stake once that day nor the next,
nor the next one. He is noble house I mean to
give him some lasses candy. Enough of that
I must leave something for Samantha
though I dont know as she is going to write
anything. Let us pop on to the next chapter
I suppose you and Hannah think I am on
my way to Burlington, but I am not, I am seated
in brother Aaron's setting room keeping house all alone
with [drawing of a pipe?] in my mouth and pen in my hand
taking solid comfort writing to my affection cousins.