File:Frances (Appleton) Longfellow to Anne Longfellow Pierce, 14 July 1851 (86a88268-36a5-4c6e-9671-d10411f36200).jpg

Manuscript letter

Archives Number: 1011/002.001-021#024

Nahant. July 14th 1851
Dearest Annie,
The Bloomer for baby arrived safely on Saturday – It is most thoughtfully made & I shall be proud to have her display it. I wish now I had sent down the little pink sack for I am doing it miserably in comparison, having no genius for fine work.
The sacks I wished were for her of fine white cambric – scolloped if possible or nicely finished – two would suffice. She has nothing quite thin enough for the hottest days. I have no good [p. 2] pattern to send but hoped they might have one for a baby nearly a year old (with long sleeves) If they can be made Sam could bring them if there is no earlier opportunity when he goes to say farewell or to the wedding!
I should be very glad of the other flannel petticoat despite its scantiness which will not be greater than those she is wearing – It would be well to shorten it an inch in the skirt with an eye to the future.
If your society makes any nice little knit woolen jackets with long sleeves I [p. 3] should be glad of one for I think one cannot buy them as delicately made & here the weather is so variable she needs a variety of garments. $2.50 would be as [crossed out: Henry is] much as I should give for one as she so soon will outgrow it – [crossed out: But] White edged with pink or blue or any nice color they have – not too heavy or close in the knitting.
Excuse this confused scrawl with many interruptions.
Henry is very glad you all like the bust so much – And I am delighted too [p. 4] my good Uncle Sam is willing to sit. Miss Goodwin writes me Akers dined there yesterday & will begin today. I wish we could be in town to criticize for we did much for Henry’s in that way.
My father & Mrs Appleton were in London by last accounts at several grand entertainments, - overwhelmed with the splendors of the Crystal Palace. Here we see many friends & are much enjoying our freedom from all care but that of the children – who are now well. I am happy to say. Baby creeps [p. 1 cross] everywhere & will soon be on her feet.
Ever thy aff
Fanny –

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