Sparta Sept. 30, 1855

Beloved Mary

I have been hesitating for sometime whether to go to meeting to-night or stay at home and write to you. The question was harder to decide on account of the report that Mr. Stewart is to be married to-night to Mrs. Cody. Indeed, it is only on account of this report that I have any desire to go to the Methodist church at all for I scarcely ever find their meetings either instructive or interesting, especially, when Mr. Hickman or Mr. King preaches. I went to preaching to day as much to "kill time" as anything else; and heard Mr. King give a very soothing, "Soporiferous" sermon. I need not tell you that I have prefered to stay and confer with you. I learned from Mr. Willie Brogdon that you had the luck to get your buggy tine broken on that rocky ridge, but the good luck of getting it mended again. I did not hear of it till late saturday evening. I have had no uneasiness about you; feeling confident that if anything very serious had befallen you I would have heard it. I have no doubt that you have arrived safely at your fathers and are enjoying yourselves very much. I should like to be with you, if practicable. I would have gone yesterday evening if I had not sold victoria. It would be very agreeable to exchange my present solitude for your society and the society of those with whom you are associated. Some, who know of no better a state, may be contented and happy, alone; but for me it is impossible. I don't think I ever missed you so much when you were gone as I do this time. I do not know the cause unless my attachment for you is growing stronger. I am satisfied that the affections need something around which to revolve. With my affections you of course constitute that centre. Hence, when you are gone there is something wrong. It is like throwing a wheel off of its pivot. But, it is best, perhaps, for you to leave me occasionally, as I will be prepared to appreciate your return. But this is enough of love sick material.

Well, I have nothing else to tell you I believe. I have done very well in the way of eating. I finished the biscuits you baked me, to-night. You ought to be here to see me pitch in to making up bread in the morning. When shall I look for you? Must I come for you? How did the horse do? If you want me to come for you send the horse by the mail boy. Do not come unless you think you can come safely. I had rather come after you than for you to run any risk. 

Court broke friday and there is a calm in town now. The Fair commences next wednesday. Will you not come home and attend? I shall exhibit our beet, I think. I want you to write if you do come home before the letter could arrive. I have nothing else to write about. Give love to all and especially to Nettie and Edwin. And I have already told you often enough, "how well I love you".

Then Good Night

William J. Hill


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Transcription used with permission of Charles Massey.

Archivists:
Transcription by Charles Massey.
Image by G. Anne Sloan