Waterboro Apr 29. 1860

 

My Dear Brother;

                        I presume when you last heard from home & Father, you had fears that he would never be any better, but and in all probibility you expected the next news would be that he was failing fast and I do not expect you looked for any thing more serious than that; but the painful duty is assigned me of breaking to you the sad news that our dear Father is no more! I know your heart will be almost rent by this sad news and your spirit will sink within you, but accompaning this are many prayers to the great God who doeth all things well, and to the blessed Saviour who is ever in sympathy with all hearts, and to the holy spirit that ever present comforter that they will sustain and comfort you as they have us.

 

            Father died last Wednesday Apr 25 at sunset; and so rapidly did he fail and so sudden was his death that the had not time to send for Joseph and I who were in Boston before he died. The next day the telegraphed to us and we came home to funeral. /

 

            We buried him Saturday. It was a very fine day and a very large assembly of relitives, friends & neighbours were present. The carimonies of the sad occation were conducted by our cherished friend and spiritual adviser Jesse Warren assisted by Elder M^cDaniel. The XIV chapt of John was read and a short sermon preached from the XLVI chapt & first verse of Psalms. I was not with Father when he died but they say after a hard strugle he obtained peace and pardon and after bidding them all a last good bye he closed his eyes and passed away very easy and happy, retaining his senses up to the very last. So has past away our best friend and o, how lonely it does seem here this Monday morning as I write to you! though the weather is very fine only rather cold and dry, but all are busy prepairing the ground for the seed. We are all well at present though mother is very much worn down. It is very sickly this way and very many have died since you were here. Joseph and I expect to return to Boston this week. I expect to stop there untill July when I shall come home to help get the hay. The boys are getting along well with the farm &c. /

 

            Lizzie is living in the old house here and probably will live there all summer. Asbury Chadbourn is very low and cannot live long. All of the friends enquired after you and Lizzie Saturday and send much love. I cannot think of much news to write you now, but shall expect a letter from you very soon.

 

            Mother wants you to come home as soon as you can; and we all want to see you very much. I you write to me or Joseph soon direct to Boston as before. And now may the divine spirit accompany this to you and remain with you both and comfort & bless you and prepair you to reign in heaven above. Good Bye

 

Your Affectionate

Brother

Paul

 

P.S. Enclosed we send you a lock of Fathers hair

P.

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