Waterboro Nov 27th 1859
Dear Brother—:
It seems to me you have forgotten us down here or you would have written to some of us and let us know how you are prospering It has been a long time since we received any inteligence from you but trust you & wife, and all the rest of the people of our acquaintance are enjoying good health.
you have I suppose herd from time to time the failure of Father, at times dark & fearfull clouds gather oe'r our minds, & our hearts allmost sink within us & now, that spark of hope we have cherished so long is nearly extinct
We have untill lately hoped that the disease might be removed, but now we are discouraged. He is continually growing weaker, and coughs a great deal. He rides out when it is pleasant & feels best when he is riding round. We shall write to you often so that you may know how he & all the rest of the folks are.
The weather through this month has been very warm in comparrison with last there is about six inches of snow on the ground & I guess more coming. Business will be very good here this winter; we have sold a timber lot which will make work for some one.
I want to know very much how you like farming; I understand by the way of Paul that you have located your-self
How large a farm have you? how much stock? &c &c Joseph will come home in a short time, will proberly stop with us this winter.
Melvina is at home with us & will attend school this winter. Paul will stop in Boston this winter for he thinks he has a good chance.
I must draw this letter to a close & perhaps next time I will more lengthy.
Write to me soon for we are anxious to hear from you
From your brother, Collins