Sparta July 6, 1854

Beloved Mary

I have just finished reading your letter and will send you a few lines in reply. I am, however, in such a state of excitement that I can scarcely write. I need not tell you that the excitement is owing to the reading of your letter. Oh! it was so rich! How thrilling the sentence "Soon will we meet and enjoy each others society, once more". You inquire how I spent the 4th of July. Not very pleasantly. Nothing occurred in Sparta more than usual except that in the evening, we were called to witness the burial and funeral ceremonies of James Brien: aged about 15 years. I often thought of Spencer but I cannot say that I derived any pleasure from thinking. The thought of the joys that reigned there, rather tantalized than pleased me. I could scarcely refrain from going out. Had it not been that you would have been deceived I believe I would have gone.

I have been interupted by some gentlemen on business. Erasmus and Augustus are wanting to start. I wish I had more time. I will write next mail. I do not know when that will be now. Excuse me. Write to me soon.

Yours in love

W.J. Hill


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Transcription used with permission of Charles Massey.

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Transcription by Charles Massey.
Image by G. Anne Sloan