
Just as I was deeply interested in reading "John Russell Youngs reminiscences of Walt Whitman" as published in last evn'gs Paper, my soul enters with the pleasing tidings that you were not "only sitting up" (in bed) but was partaking with a relish of such food as you had not till now been allowed or desired." To gain strength is what you need to combat with your disease & nourishing food may bring about this happy result.
Such we shall pray &
hope for—I have always longed to hear you recite
"Captain, Oh, My Captain," &
may I not yet hear it?
I would again come over to see you, but I am not myself well & you are too sick to entertain even friends.
To our Heavenly Fathers care I consign you, dear friend, trusting He will spare you to us yet a little longer.
Truly Yours Lavinia F. Whitman Phila, 2337 N. 18th


