Valentine G. Barney to Maria Barney
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Perhaps a few lines from me written about this time would be very acceptable so I
will endeavor to scribble a little. To day has been a long and lonesome day and
I have many times thought of you and our dear little ones away up in good old
Vermont. I would be see you just now, and I can in imagination with your sewing
in your hands and Carrie & Fred at your side teasing you to make pictures on
the slate for them or perhaps singing their Sunday School songs or repeating
their little verses. How I wish I could just step in and surprise you in you
quietude. would it not be joyful. This evening I am enjoying the comforts of a
fire and find it very pleasant I bought a stove and pipe to day as we have had
quite cool weather for a few days past & I was surprised to hear you were
having uncomfortable warm weather in Vert. We are making calculations on staying
here this winter and are fixing up for cold weather I have got a cow for our
mess
so at present we are living high and enjoying the luxury much,
and to night for supper we had a good old fashioned custard and cream in our
tea, We have also got sixteen Turkies and are fattening them for big dinners
.Are we not suffering?- I find the slippers just the thing and I am a thousand
times thankful for them I was thinking of buying some only the day before. I
have forgotten to speak of the handkerchiefs. They came all safe and I find them
just what I needed I think Carrie hems nicely for so small a little
girl. I shall send for that box of clothing I sent Father before long and I wish
you would get some Ladies Cloth abt slate color or redish brown, and
have me a pair of shirts made and send in the box I want them made large with a
respectable flap and smoked pearl Buttons. You may send also two towells and a
pair of socks. dont send any thing but what I write for as I am pretty well
supplied with all necessaries My room is full company Dr. Carpenter. Lt Viele
Adjt Livingston & Capt Seligson so I will hope to finish on a half sheet. I
have rode horseback 10 miles per day for four days past with Dr. C for exercise
and find it effects me well
Good night Maria.
Your Afft Hussy Val