Duquesne Nov 18^th 1856

 

Mr McKelvey

Respected Sir                                     

You have no doubt ere this looked for an answer to your last, but the subject you submited for my consideration occasioned me considerable embarrassment and this is the first time since that my mind has been sufficiently composed to write. I am truly thankful for your good opinion and sincerely hope that time may prove me worthy of it. But sorry that you should think me so silly as to be offended. I am sure if your advances were disagreeable it would be very easy for me to say so, but as they are not I hope a more mature acquaintance may deside in / in your favour. If not you may rest assured of my warmest friendship.

 

I have already given the matter much serious reflection and feel that it requires much more before I can give a desided answer, which I will try to do when we meet. Then I trust kind Providence will direct such an answer as will be for our mutual benefit both in time and eternity. The responsibility is very great but I think I am posessed of a true womans heart such as will enable me to discharge the duties of a mother to your little ones sould I decide in your favour. But one thing more then I will drop the subject for this time have you that to offer me which my heart most desires Affection or is it only a matter of necessity on your part.

 

I was very much disappointed that I was not one of your the number at your Sisters wedding, but verry happy to hear that you all enjoyd your / selves so much, give the bridal pair my best respects, tell them I wish them long life, all the happiness married life can bring, and health to enjoy it. We all feel very much disappointed that they have not paid us a visit yet we expected them down this month and I hope they will not disappoint us. when you write please direct to Pittsburg as I have particular reasons for not wishing your letters to come to the Duquesne Office.

 

hoping this will find you and yours in the enjoyment of good heath I subscribe myself

                                                                                   

Yours Respectfully

Sarah Croft

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