that we acted in a more wise manner by having a long courtship as it enabled us to know each other's temper and disposition before our marriage as well as we do now. I must now my darling bid you good bye as I must go to my work and not sit writing love letters to my husband all day although I must say you deserve a long letter. You have been so good in writing to your little slave. God bless and keep you in safety my own dearest husband and believe me ever Your own affectionate wife Susan D McLean