Independence, MO
12/25-1888
My dear Nan:--
It has really been so long since I have written to you that I don't know where to begin, I thought I would only repay you for treating me so shabby. We are even now, so we will play quits & do better in the future. I left El Dorado in Sept. & went to Pierce City & was there two weeks-had to come home on account of sickness in the family, so will remain here this winter. Lute was over to visit me last week & she looks prettier & younger than she did 3 yrs. ago & is the same sweet old girl as of old. I think her one of the dearest girls living, she brought me for Xmas a whole set of hand-made trimming for under clothing it is just beautiful & I prize it so much because it is her work. She & I went out to see Mrs. Brown (nee Dolly Musser) she is so much prettier than she used to be, she has one kid 19 mon. old & is about ready to go to bed again. Don't you pity her? I do; she has been living here in town since Aug. she had over home for 9 weeks, had been sick, she & the baby, his is real cute.
Isn't this a gloomy Xmas? It doesn't seem one bit like it. We, the Baptists, had a S.S. supper last night for the children, they had an immense time & we did too waiting on them, I never was so near dead in my life, every time is very dull here for the holidays. Did Santa call on you? He brought me a pair of kid gloves and a box of paper & envelopes.
Nan, do you remember Fernnie Writght, he is married, took a K.C. girl, he was engaged to Miss Wisdom of Columbia for a long time, but they had a spat, such is life.
Nan, when are you coming to see me? I wish you had come I want to see you so much. I expect if nothing prevents I will teach in the public schools, in the spring. I dread it too, I get so tired of the little kids. Oh dear, please excuse the blots it was an accident.
Nan, I will have to close for I just can't write this evening, if you will answer this soon I will do better in the future. I will close by wishing you a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year. Give my love to Miss Lida and much to you. Write soon.
Yours,
Mattie
Box 605