I am pleased to be able now to forward you the specimen of wrought anthracite. It came safely yesterday tho. the article for which ye forme pencil was entirely broken to pieces.

Allow me to seize this opportunity to avouch my affectionate & enduring sense of your great personal worth, & the eminent services you have rendered my beloved country—the home & the heritage of my children.

That a gracious Providence may continue to you its [ ] guidance as you descend lifes vale, and a Divine Savior receive you "when heart & flesh shall fail" is the sincere prayer of Your obliged friend