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Charles Hine, Dear, dear friend,

I shall try and come to New Haven, very soon—though but for perhaps two or three hours. For some days past my mother has been ill—some of the time very ill—and I have been nurse & doctor too, as none of my sisters are home at present—But to-day she seems over it, if the favorable symptoms continue.

I have procured the portrait & frame without any trouble, & they are now hanging up in mother's front room—& are the delight & ever-increasing gratification of my folks & friends, young & old—some of whom sit by the half hour & just look steadily at it in silence—It is indeed a noble piece of work-manship—age has already improved it, & will still more—both painting & frame were unharmed—Mr. Blondell, 806 Broadway, had the painting, & has others of yours.

Dear Charley, I cannot fix the day, but I will indeed try to come forthwith. I too wish to be with you once more—though it will be but so briefly—

Much love to you, my dear friend,—not forgetting your wife & children.

Walt Whitman