As your Aunt Nannie has written to your Mother, I will answer your letter to me.  I would have written before now but thought I would wait until your old aunt returned from Louisa.  She got home all safe last Saturday.  I am truly sorry to hear of your Father's illness.  Very sorry your Aunt Nanny could not stay longer, she would have staid a week more, but she got uneasy about me.  As I am her big baby you know if she cant hear from me she concludes I am sick and she must be t home.  Montaldo[sp] is well but don't seem to care much for his mistress, I was very glad to get your letter think it very well done for you.  You must write to me often. Will always be glad to get your letters.  You and Gardner must be good children .  Tell Gardner to learn fast and write me a letter.  Give my best love to your mother and father and tell your mother I will write to her some time next week.  Tell her she is too kind and considerate to me.  I feel that I little deserve it, but she certainly has my warmest thanks for the nice handsome present sent me by your Aunt Nancy.  Will always think of her when I see and read it.  Hope so much your Father may get better.  You and Gardner must come up to see us when ever you can.  Best love to all. Sincerely your Uncle

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