
          I think I shall have the floor covered
 with oil cloth.


 The match-maker
 is anxious to hear from you.


 Your next letter I hope will announce
 that the bible is secured.
 I wish we had $100 to spend in
 elegancies or rather [decencies?].
 My colleagues seem to look with approbation
 on my changes: they are really
 great improvments. My pump is
 engaged _ a donation from the patent-holder
 - a first class lift & force pump.
 It has no piston, a disk of india rubber
 is the only movable thing about it except
 handle & valves. Queer that they have
 never yet had a pump! My cistern
 & sink are ready for the plumbers. He
 waits the first thaw. Thermometer -9 1/2
 this morning. I expect soon to go
 to Pres Laborees to board. I wish
        