"MY DEAR LITTLE MAMA--I was truly happy to hear that you were
all well. We are surrounded with measles at present on every
side, for the Herons got it, and Isabella Heron was near
Death's Door, and one night her father lifted her out of bed,
and she fell down as they thought lifeless. Mr. Heron said,
'That lassie's deed noo'--'I'm no deed yet.' She then threw
up a big worm nine inches and a half long. I have begun
dancing, but am not very fond of it, for the boys strikes and
mocks me.--I have been another night at the dancing; I like
it better. I will write to you as often as I can; but I am
afraid not every week. _I long for you with the longings of a
child to embrace you--to fold you in my arms. I respect you
with all the respect due to a mother. You don't know how I
love you. So I shall remain, your loving child_,