Incipit

Buffalo 2 Jany 1860 Monday eve

Brother Nelson & Family

Have you had time to think how strange it is to write or say 1860 — well it is a strange word & whether we may live to see its close remains to be seen

It is some little time since I have heard from you, then you were amidst the din & confusion of men – mechanics & artisans making & finishing your new house – not strange faces altogether but familiar for I know & You & Your wife know now that the country joiner manages to stay around until his face becomes as familiar as the old Housedog