C.E. Larned- December 27, 1877

Champaign, Ill., December 27, 1877

    Mary commenced this, and I will tell you, yours arrived(?) today. For which thanks. And a happy new year. 2 days old to yourself. Last week went to Springfield to attend the Superintendent’s and state teachers association and had an excellent meeting and more than plenty of mud. I went to Wilmington(?) To see Frank Larned’s folks and stayed over Sabbath. Mond. Night came home. Tues. 1st. All dined(?) At Aunt Mina’s. father(?) Is comfortable rest(?) well. Mina —unknown— if I had heard from your and so did —unknown— and the rest. Today have been in the office as work. Tomorrow go to Philo. The girls are boarding with Aunt Fanny in town and room in my office in corner room —unknown— Mr. Barnard’s stove. Mr. Cehas(?) Whitmore has made an assignment or been closed out by Sheriff dale(?). Met Mrs. Cain when we mr. L and I came home. She said Mr. Felmore’s folks are coming to rent Ms. Pharis’ house so as to be near abby.

She had helping Ms. Howse all day. I hope to see you when you come. Have Aunt Haanah drop me a postal card when you come so I can arrange to be at home. You did not say a word of Maggie. Is she not at home? I am glad to know Dennis will think of me and come to see us. Mr. Larned and myself are alone tonight. Estelle and Mary in town.

The neighbors are well so far as I know. Mr. Edwards is at Mr. Howse’s Ms. Petrie has moved near the “Old National”, met her last night. She was going to see Ms. Dunlap. If we can get you a —unknown— we will, though houses are vey plenty near town, the old Hayes’ house has been moved off.

The honors of my new office I have not met(?) anywhere. It is new work to me and I am trying to do my duty faithfully. There is much to do and many discouragements, but I shall hope to do what is right, so far as I know, the No. 1 Eastside school commenced today and No. 1 Urbana schools commence tomorrow. Have not seen Ms. Howell for some time. Miss Eva Foote is not physically able to teach school, but she is a —unknown— good teacher. Beele Dart is at Mrs. Cain’s and will stay there for the winter school. Ms. Sikes(?) Was well last I heard. Now Maggie dear let me know how this 1878 finds you. Love to Dennis and wife and Harris and family, and may I soon see you face to face.

As ever in love,

C. E. Larned.