Lincoln and His Father

[RJNorton]

(04-03-2013 03:15 PM)Donna McCreary Wrote:  ....for one letter from Mary to her mother-in-law has survived.

Here is the text of the letter referenced by Donna. It was written December 19, 1867:

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My Dear Madam:

In memory of the dearly loved one, who always remembered you with so much affection, will you not do me the favor of accepting these few trifles? God has been very merciful to you, in prolonging your life and I trust your health has also been preserved – In my great agony of mind I cannot trust myself to write about, what so entirely fills my thoughts, my darling husband; knowing how well you loved him also, is a grateful satisfaction to me. Believe me, dear Madam if I can ever be of any service to you, in any respect, I am entirely at your service. Mu husband, a few weeks before his death, mentioned to me that he intended that summer, paying proper respect to his father's grave, by a head & a foot stone, with his name age && and I propose very soon carrying out his intentions. It was not for want of affection for his father, as you are well aware, that it was not done, but his time was so greatly occupied always. I will be pleased to learn whether this package was received by you – Perhaps you know that our youngest boy, is named for your husband, Thomas Lincoln, this child, the idol of his father – I am blessed in both my sons, they are very good & noble. The eldest is growing very much like his own dear father. I am a deeply afflicted woman & hope you will pray for me –
I am, my dear Madam, affectionately
yours Mary Lincoln

This letter please consider entirely private - I shall be greatly pleased to hear from you.