I long to see thee and our children

TO MRS. HAWTHORNE, 20 March 1847, Saturday

Ownest Wife,

Thy letter of Thursday did not reach me till this morning. Ellery [William Ellery Channing] goes to-day much to my satisfaction, though we have had a good time. Thou dost not know how much I long to see thee and our children. I never felt anything like it before it is too much to write about.

I do not think I can come on Monday before 10 1/2 , arriving in Boston at about 11. It is no matter about the session at Johnson’s; and if thou choosest to give him notice, so be it.

Now that the days are so long, would it not do to leave Boston, on our return, at 1/2 past 4? Kiss Una for me likewise Bundlebreech.

THY HUSBAND.

P.S. Of course, my coming on Monday must be contingent on reasonably pleasant weather.

I shall probably go to Johnson's immediately after my arrival before coming to West-street. I hope he will be otherwise engaged.

Mrs. Sophia A. Hawthorne, Care of Dr. N. Peabody, Boston, Massachusetts.

I find that I even love Bundlebreech!!!

[Salem, March 15th, 1847]

Ownest Phoebe,

Above is the note. I will not say how much beyond all money I feel indebted to Mr. Shaw for his kindness. It relieves my spirits from a great burthen, and now I feel calm and very happy.

I love thee infinitely, and need thee constantly. I long to hear Una's voice. I find that I even love Bundlebreech!!!

Ellery and I have a very pleasant time, and take immense walks every afternoon, and sit up talking till midnight. He eats like an Anaconda. Thou didst never see such an appetite.

Thou dost not tell me when thou wilt turn thy face homeward. Shouldst thou stay till next week, I will come and escort thee home. Ellery, I suppose, will go as soon as Saturday. (I shall need some money to come with. Couldst thou send me ten dollars ?) In haste, in depths of love.

THY HUSBAND.

Mrs. Sophia A. Hawthorne,
Care of Dr. N. Peabody,
Boston, Massachusetts