This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1907 edition. Excerpt: ... TO MISS PEABODY Boston, Jany. I," 1840. 6 o'clock P.M. helovedcst wife, Your husband's heart was exceedingly touched by that little backhanded note, and likewise by the bundle of allumettes--half a do/en of which I have just been kissing with great affection. Would that I might kiss that poor dear finger of mine Kiss it for my sake, sweetest Dove--and tell naughty Sophie Hawthorne to kiss it too. Nurse it well, dearest; for no small part of my comfort and cheeriness of heart depends upon that beloved finger. If it be not well enough to bear its part in writing me a letter within a few days, do not be surprised if I send down the best surgeon in Boston to effect a speedy cure. Neverther less, darlingest wife, restrain the good little finger, if it show any inclination to recommence its labors too soon. If your finger be pained in writing, your husband's heart ought to (and I hope would) feel every twinge. Belovcdest, I have not yet-ished you a Happy New Year And yet I h.ivr--many, many of them; as many, mine own wife, as we can enjoy together--and when we can no more enjoy them together, we shall n longer think of Happy New Years on earth, but look longingly for the New Year's Day of eternity. What a year the last has been Dearest, you make the same exclamation; but my heart originates it too. It has been the year of years--the year in which the flower of our life has bloomed out--the flower of our life and of our love, which we are to wear in our bosoms forever. Oh, how I love you, belovedest wife --and how I thank God that He has made me capable to know and love you Sometimes I feel, deep, deep down in my heart, how dearest above all things you are to me; and those are blissful moments. It is such a happiness to be conscious, at...