Thursday 11- P.M. [16 February 1843]

I send three letters which
came this eveng from An-
na -- in envelopes containg
short letters to me -- one of more
length, I shall send tomor-
row. She appears to be very
happy & is very well. I
do not feel as if I shd go on
for her or to meet her on
the way -- but it is possible
I may do the latter.

Thank H--n "the agony
is over," and I am not cho-
sen. I am content, and shall
be, never to be a candidate
again for a popular election.

It seems I have lost my popu-
larity in some parts of the
District. Very well. The wonder
is, that I have sustained it
(fleeting -- unsubstantial
thing) so long. Why then
shd I complain? I have
a clear conscience. I have
been faithful to my constitu-
ents & have endeavored to
do my duty -- and I have
had my share of popu-
larity -- or what is better -- of
the esteem of those whose
esteem is valuable. Bear
with me (my dear wife)
in my folly.

L. S.

[Address]

Mrs. L. Saltonstall