_New York_, March 4th, 1842
Dearest, I can find only this torn sheet of paper, on which to
scribble thee a bulletin. We are arrived safely; but I am very
homesick for thee--otherwise well and in good spirits. I love thee
infinitely much. Belovedest, I know not whether the Colonel and I will
leave this city on Monday or Tuesday, but if thou hast not already
written, it will be to[o] late to direct a letter hither. In that
case, best wife, write to Albany--whence I shall write to thee. The
steam-engine kept me awake last night; but I cared not, for I was
thinking about thee.