"
The last letter in my collection seems written almost within
measurable distance of the Christmas-card era. The sheet is headed
by a beautifully embossed device of some holly in red and green,
wishing the recipient of the letter a merry Xmas and a happy new
year, while the border is crimped and edged with blue. I know not
what it is, but there is something in the writer's highly finished
style that reminds me of Mendelssohn. It would almost do for the
words of one of his celebrated "Lieder ohne Worte":--
"DEAR MISS MARIA,--I hasten to acknowledge the receipt of your
kind note with the inclosure for which I return my best thanks.
I need scarcely say how glad I was to know that the volumes
secured your approval, and that the announcement of the
improvement in the condition of your Sister's legs afforded me
infinite pleasure. The gratifying news encouraged me in the hope
that now the nature of the disorder is comprehended her legs
will--notwithstanding the process may be gradual--ultimately get
quite well.
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