C.E. Larned-December 7, 1877

Friday night Dec. 7 1877

Dear Friend:

I thought this was sent last morning but found it today when I took up the paper to write to Sophia Dart. Ms. Cain was here. Today helping me sew. She wishes to be remembered to you. Mr. C. Is afflicted with Erysipelos(?). Her Son and daughter-in-law have gone to(?) house keeping upstairs and are as cozy as two doves. She will be 18 years old Sunday.

I expected Estelle home tonight but she did not come and Mr. Larmed is reading his paper and I have four letters to write so am busy: and shall be more so next week when I get into my office and begin the work.

Maggie how are you? And what do you do all the days of your life? I will sned you an extract from a book I received today. The highest of all arts is the art of living well beyond the beauty of sculpture or painting or music or poetry is the beauty of a well spent life. Here all can be artists. Every man a hero, Obedience to the common “be ye perfect even as your father in Heaven is perfect, would ally man to God and make earth a Paradise.”

—(illegible)—

So good bye. Hopeing to you from you,

As ever yours,

C. E. L.