[to Susan]

              (private)I would suggest the propriety of thy speaking to Father, during thy stay in the City, respecting our manner of living here. it has been a source of complaint on thy part, at times of harsh and angry words, and of unhappiness to both of us, ever since our marriage, although I am not aware that I held out any expectations of anything different from the actual condition of things, before that solemn engagement. this combined with subjects of anxiety, and corroding cares, have weighed heavily upon me latterly, and have almost overcome my effort to look on the bright side of things. now Father has kindly & liberally contributed and offered to contribute towards defraying our expenses. if he would prefer that thyself and the children should live differently from what they do, I see no impropriety in thy partaking of his liberality. as long as I am blessed with health & present means, I do not wish anything in the shape of a pecuniary contribution, to assist me, in business or for myself, or for my personal com-fort and accommodation. I hope with prudence to have enough to live upon, & as our children grow older to give them an educa-tion that will assist them in struggling through this life, and under the guidance, and by the will of our gracious God, and Almighty Father and care-taker, to help them on their way to a more happy and enduring inheritance in the land of spirits, where may we all meet, a family in Heaven!