Lamar.
Nov. 5th. 1883
Dear, Darling Nan, --
I just beg your pardon ten thousand times for not writing sooner but Nan, I have had so much to do that I couldn't find time. Today was the first day of my school and I never was as tired in my life, it is harder than washing. I started out this morning and before I got half way there it just commenced pouring down rain, I am teaching in the country, five miles from Lamar. I have a real nice place to board; there is a young lady and she has an unmarried brother I am going to set my cap for him - hope it will fit. But oh Nan! I am the most homesick girl you ever saw, and just think I have to stay here three miserable months. I go into Lamar every Friday evening if the weather isn't too bad. I have Miss Denny spoken of but never met her. I haven't had one bit of fun this summer, - sick as usual. - Glad you had such a nice time. I would just give any thing to go see you and when my ship comes in I intend to go. I know I would have a good time, but I'd care for would be seeing you and Miss Lida and the rest of your folks. Nan, I commenced this two days ago but I am so busy all day and so tired at night that I just can't write. I am afraid I'll not have time to finish it this morning. Some of the funniest things happen in school, I just can't keep my face straight, and I terribly vexed too sometimes, there are some little lads going that are scarcely weaned and some are grown. I am so very small they all thought I was only sixteen,- fools wasn't they. I hope you are going to school and are getting along nicely and see your fellow every day, I suppose Mary will teach school and only have one pupil. I haven't received a letter from her since February. Lute is well pleased with her school as ever. I haven't heard from J. H. since I have been nor John Ford for a coon's age. Yes, I know how your Oregon John the bounce. I am very sorry to hear you had such a bad luck with your plates. I expect Mr. Hughes does come to see "Bro. Tom" real often only it is Sister Nan. There was one of my school mates got married this Summer, but I do not envy her at all, for I think just as you do about it. There Nan, I'll have to close for I have to get ready for school. I will send this letter but, it is a very poor one, but I hope I'll have more time and more news next time I write. Please answer soon and write a long letter. Give my love to Miss Lida and with lots for your self, I am yours in haste.
Mattie
Direct your letters to Lamar.