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97

M44

Box III

Folder 50

Maury Family Papers

18 Feb[ruar]y 1863. Francis M. Lewis, Norfolk, [Va.], to Nan [Anne Fontaine Maury], [Milton, N.C.]. 2 pp. ALS

(1 item)

Norfolk. Feby 18th 1863

Dear Nan,

This is the fourth time that I have written to you within a short time. The last letter I know was destroyed; it contained one from Miss Anne, which she requested should be forwarded to you. She had received the account that was written of the arrival of the Alpacka, and the surprise of the odd shoes. Tobin has an excellent situation in China, in the Russell House. - had so much to day, that he goes to bed soon after dinner - she gave the hour but I have forgotten it - somewhere about [?] or seven.

I am tardy in offering my good wishes for the little son - May God bless him, and may he be a blessing to his Parents. Why "Leonard" was selected as his name, has been a study to his Great Aunt - the ['Luann'?] was easily determined. I hope to hear if her calculation, or rather investigation is correct. The name is found on her Genealogical tree, - as having been borne by his gtgtgtgrandfather! She gave the steps - Hill, Walker, Grymes, Maury, Mc I might have traced them among her Genealogical circles - She gave me a Table.

I want to give you all the items of her letter - She says that with the exception of one month, she has not had a new Servant for ten years - her Cook is sick, & prefer'd going to her relations, "rather than staying here as a lady" - "The Cook who is gone, was my friend, and I her's -" Is not this praise - the one she has is a good cook, and cleanly - but its cross -

Is M. L. now satisfied at having two birthdays in one - How did the Egg Nogg taste? I should not relish any thing so costly as the spirit.

I am anxious that you should receive this scroll - or rather what it is written to accompany. Now to look for an opportunity - when the rain abates.

Your attached

Friend

Frances M. Lewis.