My aunt’s present to us was a handsome one, even a third of an eighth representing quite a share of silver, furniture, etc. I also figured as a sort of residuary legatee, the heirs making me a number of presents ranging from a great mahogany bedstead down to small domestic articles of furniture. Hence I was well repaid for the trouble involved. My father still walked with a light, quick step and maintained his gallant bearing till he was seventy-two years old. Soon afterward his health began to fail, but in spite of pain and weakness he kept at work. In 1874 he wrote a brief report of his life-work for the blind, of which it has been said: “Were there no other monument to his memory, this would suffice.” He still enjoyed his favorite exercise, riding on horseback, and took great pleasure in his grandchildren. In spite of his extremely busy life he had always found time to write to his children—were it only a few affectionate lines. Two notes to sister Julia lie before me. CONTINENTAL, PHILADELPHIA, _April 13, Sunday_. DARLING DUDIE,—Journeying homeward from Washington I was obliged to lie over here by sick headache, which, however, is passing away. I have seen dear Sumner, who lies stranded for life I fear—a magnificent but mournful wreck. Washington is looking beautifully in the full bloom of spring. It is not cheering to leave it for the cold and still wintry north, except when one thinks of the sunlight of dear faces and the warmth of loving hearts. Love to Michael. PAPA. GLEN, _Sunday, Sept. 7th, ’73_. DARLING DUDIE,—Already I miss your sweet company and genial sympathy very much. Mamma and I had the most charming and felicitous journey down that is conceivable.... The peace and quiet, however, is sadly broken in upon to-day, and the confusion half-crazes me. Besides our immediate three selves there are the two dear mothers[11] and two dear babies; and two nurses and Zalinski and Maud Parks and Girlie [?] Blackler, three men, two women and Pad [Miss Paddock]—nineteen, all told! The day is delicious indeed. I have taken both babies to ride on horseback, and enjoyed their sweet enjoyment. Laura and some of them have been to see Parker Lawton and carried to him fruit and flowers. I sent also a basket this afternoon to your old protégée Miss Taggart. Dear love to the ascetic Epirote and to all friends and the residuary legatee of all my affections. PAPA.