18 April
Last night we had rain. This morg
is pleasant and balmyy. I am well
and shall soon go out to labor.
  Tell me when you write what you
wish me to bring from Chicago.
  I have felt deep sorrow over the
fearful murder of the President. The
event created profound sorrow here.
The soldiers spoke of it as if he had
been their father, for to a man they
respected and honored him. It is
a sad calamity for the nation and
I fear we shall suffer, for lack of his
strong arm, clear head and warm heart.
Remember me kindly to all.
Take good care of yourself, and of our little
girl. Time flies and apparently
will soon bring me home.
 yours ever affectionately. MD.