Rosita, Colorado
May 28, 1882
My Dear Aunt Cutie,
Your letter written to [my sister] Lydia [Holmes] reached
me a few days ago. I had heard before of your sad bereavement but had not heard
the sorrowful particulars. Indeed you have had a fiery trial. I know that you
must have other than human strength to rely on or you would not have been able
to bear it. And then too your children must have proved a great comfort to you.
We can hardly realize that it is possible that he is gone. It has been for a
long time my husband’s and my own dearest wishes that we would one day be able
to pay you and him a visit. My husband has the most pleasant memories of his
intercourse with Uncle James in the early days when the Nebraska & Kansas
Conference’s were one.
We deeply regret that he is gone but we know he has only
passed over first, that he is at rest, that it will not be long till we shall be
laid under the sod, and that our spirits will go to join those loved ones gone
before. How the number is increasing. It seems to me sometimes now when I look
ahead that I have more friends gone before than I have here. Oh what a meeting
that will be. I think sometimes that the way is long and weary but the blessed
hope of rest & peace at last still bears me up. I cannot write anything, I
know, that can comfort you. I wish I could but feel deeply for you and would be
very glad if I could see you if only for a little while. But it is not possible
now. My little ones I cannot leave nor could I travel with them. I shall try and
see you if I ever go east again. We would be overjoyed if you could visit us in
our mountain home. Can you not come out and spend the warm weather with us? I
think it would do you good and we would do our best to make your stay pleasant.
My letter is written under difficulties. I have to jump up
and wait on little ones. While there are several young folks talking in the room
and part of the time have a baby in my arms, so if it is disconnected, please
excuse it. With much love to yourself & children.
I remain your Affectionate Niece,
Sarah A. [Giddings] Smith
P.S. I should be very glad to
hear from you and will answer if you feel able to write.
Sarah Amelia [Giddings] & husband, Rev. Lorenzo Waugh Smith
(photographs courtesy of Pat Ostwald & Mike Kiteley)
Rosita, Colorado
USGS Photo, 1880-1890
