L[ydia] M[aria] Child ALS to [Ellis Gray Loring], July 3, 1856

Wayland July 3d, 1856

Dear Friend,

I have come to try your
patience again about "pecunary" matters.
I am in a state of high indignation,
because the assessors here have taxed
us the enormous sum of $26..10 cts
for the Northampton farm, under the
head of "personal estate." The town
got themselves into a foolish law-suit,
which proved unfortunate and expen-
-sive. They also built a house for a
High School, at the useless expense of
$6000; and the building is now shut
up, for want of scholars, and of means
to pay a teacher. There were three or
four vacant buildings in town, which
would have answered every purpose
for a High School; but vanity led them
to do something more showy than richer

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With true love to Louise and Anna, always your affectionate and grateful.
L. M. Child.

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L. M. Child. 1856
July 3.

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