Southern Hotel (El Dorado, MO)
July 10, 1888
My dear Nan:--
I am so lonely, I suppose that sounds absurd, talking that way when there are thirty people in the house, but it is true all the same there isn't but one young lady beside myself & I don't admire her at all & there is a whole regiment of strange men. Oh how I do wish there was some one I liked! I would much prefer private board, but my arrangements are such that I have to stay here. I am getting along quite nicely with my class, have five pupils & the promise of two more. Yes, I would like to visit you so much & then, you hold such an inducement, a fellow,-- I am very much in need of one as I haven't found me any down here & I am afraid I am not going too. I can sympathize with you in losing your sister, for I know you will miss her & I would like very much to attend her wedding, but business before pleasure, as I cannot be there to give both of them an extra kiss for me & tell Miss Lida, I hope her clouds will be few & all of them will have a silver lining & that the sunshine will be brighter by being mixed with a little shade, & I also wish her peace, happiness etc., etc..You must write & give me full particulars, send me a piece of each of your dresses, aint I crazy?
Lute came home week before last, went by Sisters & stayed all night. I was so sorry I wasn't at home. I am almost jealous of her, the home folks think almost as of her as me.
Haven't we had the warmest weather you ever felt? I have been almost melted & this is such a hot place. What did you do the 4th? I worked as usual & went to see the fireworks that night. Nan, I wish you would come down here we would have a picnic. The Proprietor asked me to send one of his cards to all my friends so I send you one & one of my circulars. I must close as it is time to begin work, "there is no rest for the wicked." Excuse this letter & write soon for you know how we love to get letters when away from home. Love to Miss Lida & much to you. Yours, Mattie.