Full but light blue postmark. PAID mark with manuscript 3. January 9, 1852, three-page letter from E J. Humphrey to her “Beloved Parents”.  She notes that they have probably been looking for a New Year’s letter which she promised but, at length, she explains that Mr. Humphrey, who had not been well to begin with, had decided to go to a meeting on “one of the coldest days we have had this winter.”  She describes the circumstances noting that everyone “thought he was crazy” to ride the three miles with his stomach ailment.  Upon his arrival at the meeting, he collapsed. They send to a physician and “it was five or six hours before he obtained relief. He s0peaks of the pain as being most intense. It was of the same nature as the bilious cholic but was in the pit of the stomach.”

E. J. writes that she was alone at the time he was stricken and her fear rose when he did not return home by 9 o’clock. Finally, the doorbell rang and she was told of his situation.  The letter is long and clearly written and provides a detailed look at the significant role sickness played during those times.  Well worth reading.