(1)




[Addressed:] Mrs. Fanny M. Anderson
                         Palmyra, MO. 

Dearest Sister

Our waggon is loaded and tomorrow morning will in all probability witness its departure for the “Land of Promise”.  I have taken a very few books with me, but find that I cannot carry these that I have packed up and accordingly as the best method of disposing of them properly consign them to your kind care.  The small copy of one of Mrs. Syden’s volumes of [“Bryson”?] please return to her.  -- The copy of Campbell’s Poems I present to Joe – knowing him to be fond of literature; and the book with my name in it – a present from R. – as I am compelled to leave it, I will commit to Homer’s nest till I return.  The rest of the books mother will claim together 


(2-3)



with the small package done up in newspaper.  Having thus exhausted the box of its contents, I have nothing for you but my strong and enduring affection, which I hope you will still consider worthy of your acceptance.  I shall be busy until late to night and can write no more.  I will write you again however when we reach St. Joseph.  You may possibly hear something from us after then through the columns of the “Mercury”!  Farewell!  dearest sister and believe that I do now and ever shall remember your unceasing kindness with deep gratitude and the warmest affection.

Your devoted brother
Elisha

Paris, Wednesday Night, April 10th

P. S. I shall place the box with Mr. Anderson’s books and Father’s Trunk in the care of Mr. Abernathy to send to you as soon as a convenient opportunity affords.  I suppose that may not be immediately

E.C.W.