Letter from Samuel B. Reed to Wife and Child, October 13, 1861

In this letter from October 13, 1861, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and daughter while they are traveling to visit relatives in Rock Island, Illinois. He states that there has been no "excitement politically or financially" at home aside from a proclamation by a Captain Danforth of the "we have laid down the lanset [sic] and taken up the sword kind."

Joliet Illinois

Oct 13th 1861

My Dear Jennie & Child

Your very welcome letter of 10 was recvd last evening too late to answer by yesterday's mail. I was glad to hear that you were both quite well. I feared the ride might be too much for you. I regret that you did not see Mr. Farnam on the train. I would like to know how he feels in regard to us. Perhaps you may yet meet him. I think Jenny that you had better call on Mrs. Ainsworth while in Iowa if you can make it convenient. You know they are very particular and would not forgive such a seeming neglect. At least if you do not send an apology. I would also spend a day in Davenport if they seem anxious to have you.

In writing to Mrs. Abbott I wrote as if you had not seen the letter. I gave her a candid invitation to make us a visit on her way to Muscatine. & told her you would be home in four weeks from last Tuesday. Have I fixed the time too short? Every thing [sic] here is mooving [sic] on as usual no excitement politically or financially that I hear only that Dr. (Capt. I should say) Danforth has issued another proclamation of the we have laid down the lanset [sic] and taken up the sword kind. I wish someone could present him a four [story] horse to ride. I would send you the [mastrly] efusion [sic] of the semi same enthuseast [sic] but it has been mislaid.

I was at church this morning and listed to a good discourse from Revd. Mr. Lock of Chicago. I have never heard him before except at the funeral of Mr. Elwood. I like him very much he reads the servis [sic] well. That is one great requisite in our clergy when that is poorly or hastily passed over the life & soul is gone.

Oct 13 1861 S B ReedJennie it is lonely without you and Anne. I listen often for the musick [sic] of her merry laugh and when I come in at night I can hardly content myself to stay at home all the evening without you. As Mr. Lock said to day [sic] there is no time on earth, so happy as when we are alone with the wife of our bosome [sic] and the and the child of our love finelly [sic] clinging around our neck. Don't we feel that every word is true?

I shall expect to hear from you again before by [dys]. I will direct this to Rock Island but fear you have gone to Muscatine & it will miss you.

Kiss Anne & accept love & respect from yours affectionately
Samuel.

You had better write to Mrs. Abbott. I directed to Andover Depot.