Sunday evening dear sister Lizzie We were very glad to receive your letter last evening. What sad and shocking events have taken place within the past 48 hours there is gloom and sadness over the whole land. It was a great shock to every loyal heart - the weather too is gloomy and accords well with the feeling of a stricken people - I never saw anything so gloomy as the appearance of Pittsburg this morning nearly every house draped in mourning. Flags draped and hung at half mast. Sister Mary and I feel quite worried about you all, fearing the secessionists may feel encouraged and get the upper hand I hope they may succeed in catching all impli- cated in this awful affair. I hope Seward's life may be graciously spared. Poor Mrs. Lincoln. She had not known much but trouble in her present home. I think she would feel it a relief to get away. Back of paper: we all feel rejoiced the time is passing away when we may expect dear father and you. I hope all may keep well. I was surprised to hear that Rictland? had a new beau. she is a very nice woman and will no doubt make him a kind wife but for an intelligent man to select one who knows so little I think strange. I think she is? xxxxham was seared exactly right. She is more yet intelligent of the two. I should rather have Reitland for a wife. I think he? might perhaps fancy the preacher. Sister Mary has written you of brother Alex Sister Clara having gone home we "thesse" so much especially on Sunday evening they generally spent here. We? go to the house every day but do not stay there. Clara's brother is there. I hope you will write soon as we are anxious to hear from you. With much love to all as if wouded I remain your affectionate I suppose brother Derick. Sister Sarah received the deed of the house. I sent while he was in NY?. Lincoln was shot on Friday April 14. This letter is undated but says Sunday and 48 hours after the event so we can assume Sunday April 16, 1865
A Little History, A Lot of Cycling