Luckily the scare is over. Clara’s membranous croup is not that; Susie’s scarlet fever is not scarlet fever. Every individual in this house, without exception, is in the doctor’s hands, but getting along pretty fairly, & afflicted with diseases not to be frightened about. I myself (a most unheard of thing,) have spent the past 6 days in bed. But nothing the matter but rhaeumatism, & I guess that isn’t catching.

So I’ve lost my chance at old Robert, for which I am mighty sorry; but as soon as I get around again I’ve got to go to New York with Madam on shopping & business; & so we hope to at least get a glimpse of you & the children. With love from both of us—