Letter from Phebe Whittemore Carter Woodruff, 27 March 1841
Scarborough
Much Beloved Companion
It is with peculiar feelings
that I seat myself to acknowledge the reception of your kind
letter dated Jan. 13 & 18th. It afforded me much satisfaction as I had
long and anxiously been looking to hear from you—did not get your
letter written Nov. 22th. The last communication but one I received from
you was dated Oct. 31th. The last time before this I wrote you was in
Dec. after I arrived in Scarborough. I should have immediately
complyed with your request in answering your letter but it was so late
in the month when it arrived, as you thought of starting the first of April
I thought you would not be likely to get it. I though[t] I would send
you a few lines to N.Y. hopeing you will get them.
I said I sit down with peculiar feelings because I hope to be permitted
to once more behold your face not many days after you receive this. I think
you will not tarry long in N.Y. (hope so at least). When I came home we left
N.Y. one night and arrived at fathers the next, we came from Boston in the cars and
stage as the steam-boat did not run then—it was more expensive. The Portland
boat commences running tomorrow fare to Boston $2 if there is an opposition boat
it will be less. Our fare from Iowa here was some o over 40 dolls. You
spoke of your baggage box, do as you please about it. I should like to see the
things you spoke of, if it would be expensive do not bring it but if you have
any articles of clothing for me or Willy you may take them—of course you will take
what things you want yourself. i My health is not verry good this spring
Willy is well and smart. Mother sends her respects to you and says she wants
