In a letter sent to New Haven, Mary tells Julius that travels from Hartford to Litchfield are very perilous with snow drifts causing the wheels to break through and tip the carriage. The roads are wet and muddy. She fears she will not be able to travel until after April 1st. Julius’ uncle sent them a new driver and her cough is still bothering her. His aunt Lucretia is please with his neat penmanship.

Mary addresses this letter to both her niece and nephew and shares that Aunt Lucretia is recovering from a painful illness. She is still very thin and pale but her appetite is improving. Litchfield is dull at the moment but mentions visitors like Judge Storrs and Elizabeth Ellsworth as well as news of family and friends.

Mary hopes Julius’ July 4th holiday was pleasant. She discusses who was in town, social activities, and parties that took place. News of neighbors, friends, and family is shared.

In today’s letter to Julius, Mary notes that it’s cool, cloudy, and dull in Litchfield. There is a fire in the parlor to take the chill away. The social happenings of the town are discussed and an impudent servant was dismissed as she could no longer be tolerated.

Mary lets Julius know that he needs to be very careful with his health. The medicine will make him feel badly but hopes it will help with is recovery.

Written in pencil, Mary tells Julius not to regret he was not with Mary during her sickness as her room was dark and he would not have been able to distinguish her features. Some of the handwriting is illegible.

Clarissa Deming Perkins (1795-1837) was the wife of Charles Perkins and a daughter of Julius Deming and Dorothy Champion Deming.

Letter of condolence.

Offers sympathy regarding the death of Charles William; news of friends; state of religion in Rochester has been very low.

Offers sympathy regarding the death of Charles and Jane P.