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Lexington, January [10?]

I received your kind letter some time ago my dear [Selina?] and should have replied before but there is but little here of [?] to tell you and after the [?] of the last 4 years, my [epistle?] I fear will seem very tame - I also got a letter or rather Robert did from Rebecca asking for a photograph I have sent to Richmond for some, and when they arrive will write to her and send her one and if you should write in the mean time you must tell her the cause of the delay. Robert has gone to Richmond on some [business?] connected to the college and we are now expecting him daily back again. The college is prospering and increasing the number of pupils constantly. I think now it numbers [about?] [?] 100, I should think there was no place in Va so well fitted for schools as this surrounded by mountains it seems like the happy valley cut off from contact with the world and I suppose the temptations to vice are very few. The boys I am told are studying very well and I do not hear of any harsh measures to entice them to do so. Ellen Powell was here with her little flock when I came altho' from her appearance in a fair way to add to the number, she was doing all her own work except [the washing?] for she said the servant she had was so worthless she sent her away. They do seem to be very trifling over here. I was fortunate to secure two very good women from [Nelson?] County [?] far from where [Becky?] lives. Ellen has now removed to Charlottes ville. I am sorry she left as soon as I came. The only old acquaintences I have