Aurora July 8 1867

J A Hatch

                                                                                                                        Dear Son

I have contemplated writing you for some days but have put it off from time to time untill now. I have concluded to force my self and go at it.

 

I have neglected writing so much of late it has become quite a task for me to go at it and write a letter

 

My habit has been when writing must be done to say to Minurva or some of the rest of the family you write

 

your Mother and I your Mother went over to Sugargrove 2 weeks ago last tuesday to see our new little grand son I returned in one week betwen showers /

 

your mother was detained 8 or 9 days more by rains high water mud and absent of bridges

 

While I was there I disposed of my old heavy carriage to Mr Costen for a span of well matched rather small three yold nearly Black horse colts partially broke I have them now in good pasture I think you said when here you wanted a pair of small horses That you preferred a span of small rather than a single horse to drive I believe this span well kept and well broke somtime hence would make you something like such as you said you would like you may if you like write me what you think about the colts

 

I understand Dr Winston has been to see you and has doubtless told you of the new nephew and may have said something about the colts he has not seen either yet /

 

We have purchased a new Carriage something like the one Iris Coy Esq. exibited at our house when you was there only we think a little better We paid  $340.00 for it. McCollums make. He has on hand and is making Carriages to fit the taste and conveniences of almost evry one ours is a two seated Carriage he has single seated from $280 to $325. and perhaps varying some from my figures cheaper those say who have tried by som $30 or more than can be had in Chicago

 

We have had the rainy season some 40 days in succession as is said among us about that at least I think

 

[?] and Leach farms are very much impered the crops of all kinds are hurt very much and some lots are drounded out entirely

 

D. Winslow and family do not return yet It is and has been a very healthy time with us since you was here We are all well as usual Let us hear from you

 

                                                                        Yours truly

                                                                                                Jethro Hatch

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