Troy  Octbr 9th 1848


My Dear Brother


     You doubtless think it strange I have
not written in answer to your letter which arrived a short time
after the Portraits which we received in due season, but when
I tell you that we have had company almost every moment
since I returned & ever since I received your letter that when I had
time to sit down I was so tired I could not collect my scattered
thoughts long enough to write I commenced a letter two weeks
ago but as it has got rather stale, I have commenced anew do
you deem my apology sufficient if you do not I do. this morning
I received a long letter from Mary which was read with pleasure
and happy to find you are all well but she says nothing of
your leaving there this fall & I din’t [didn’t] believe you ever mean to, for
you have become so much attached to your Wabash home
you cannot find charms elsewhere in the first place. I
must tell you how much your Paintings have been admired.
they were some time at the shop to be framed & after they
were framed they were exhibited in the show window here
they excited much admiration especially the Indian woman
the Gentleman of the establishment said it was the best picture
he had had in his shop in ten years & said should like to have
one like it I told him I could order one if he wished but he said


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going all the time.  Sister Caroline was here when I received your letter & I read
her what you wrote I hope you will send her a small picture she would never
forget your kindness she wished me to send her love to you & said would like
to become better acquainted. tell Mary this letter will have to do for both of you
[now?] as I have spun it out to a pretty good length. give my best love to the little
ones & hopes George does not forget his cousins sends his love. do write soon again.&
tell Mary when the spirit moves me I will write again to her good night & accept
both of you the
love of your much
attached Sister
Harriet A. Groat