Calista Larned - December 4, 1877 - Champaign, IL

Champaign Nov. 30. 1877

Dear Friend:

Yours was recieved last Mond. while I was at aunt Mira’s. I went in town Sat. and it rained so I did not go hom, but, went to Church, Sunday - and to see aunt Pratt who is very sick of chills and fever and is quite, low, thinks she will not recover. Jared is still employed in the lay collector’s work.

Ms Johnson says she would take your house if there was a barn or Stable with it. But they have their hay and straw all moved in a barn where they live, and would not pay to move in for so short a time. If she had known she could have had the house, before they moved, they might have fixed it up.

Sunday Dec. 2d 1877

I did not finish this Friday as we had Company. one of the students to see Mary about Illini matters, and Libbie Cole, and Belle Dart is here. Sat. went to Mr Leals’ and called at Isa Burt’s She is well, and the children too, Aunt Mary in Chicago or Evanston.

Saw Beo. Eaton at church today He is not well at all. Our Rev Mr Strick has left. or is to go Preached his last sermon last Sabbath. Aunt Pratt is a little better can sit up a little now.

Ms Cain was over here Friday to help and we wish you could visit us. It must be pleasant to have Denis with you, in the same house, What do you hear from Oscar? I am glad Maggie remembers me and us. We do not forget her -

Tues. night. 4.

Was interrupted. and have not had time to finish this. I expect to take possession of the office as soon as I recieve my commission the last of this week. I expect, and shall be more than busy then. The girls went to town last night, and Mr L. and self were alone. It seemed so lonesome to me too. I went to Urbana yest. a.m and took Oath of office, and then to Champaign to see about fixing the room. the one over the corner or Barnard’s grocery. I expect to have my office there.

How cold it has been!

Ms Cain is very busy now days. Bell Dart is to board with her as I could not bear to have her go home and not study. She seems Contented, and does well.

Her mother came with her. She inquired for you and yours, + wished to be remembered. Mina is about the same, and [illegible] too. I wish you could send your house, or that we could find some one to come in for the inhabitants across will surely use all they can, for kindling wood.

If we can find any one to move in who will not abuse it. I will try to see - but may not succeed -

Hoping to see you - or hear soon - believe me as ever and always

Yours Truly

C. E. Larned

Maggie I will send you a paper,

C.E.L.