L[ydia] Maria Child ALS to Anna Loring, August 18, 1845

overdid the matter - She has sent me enough to last
me these ten years; for I am mighty careful of my
exquisite pocket-handkerchiefs, of which I never before
had but one, the whole term of my existence included;
and that was purchased by my own incredible extrava-
-gance, to carry to concerts and operas. On every new occasion,
I ironed it out, as Dony does the dinner napkins.

As regards the promised visit, I know of nothing that I
so earnestly desire as a cozy time with you and dear
mother. Yet if I speak frankly, I should say that I had
a little rather it would take place early next spring.

I will tell you why.
I have promised a story
a month to the Columbian

Magazine and I have promised Mr. Francis to get
ready two more Flowers for Children, for Christmas.
Sickness in the family, the unusual heat of the weather,
and uncommon depression of spirits in myself, owing to
the fear of being obliged to break up again, have pre-
-vented me from doing much this summer. I am driven
into a corner, and am afraid that I shall not be able
to give you such an undivided mind as I want to.
If my health is reserved, I intend to work very hard
this winter, and in the Spring I mean to have a real
spree, as John calls it. Would that suit mother exactly

{written perpendicularly in the left margin}

I showed your letter to Margaret, and
she was much pleased with her message.

{end perpendicular writing}