CLARA BARTON GENERAL CORRESPONDENCE Taylor, Fidelia June 1876 - Jan. 1883 and undated[*Mrs Taylor. Ansd June 25 76*] possibly return to England and not see you, my precious friend. How happy I am to be allowed to call you thus; and oh how many thousand times I have thanked you for the dear letter you sent me. I read it to all our dear friends in London and was so very proud in its possession, I shall always feel the richer and happier from having received it. I was prevented from answering it as soon as I wished as I was just starting for Paris where we spent two months and soon after coming back to London Father was taken ill; and I felt unequal to writing how my poor dear Mother needs rest and I must take her place, asking you to excuse and forgive me all unite in best love to you. Your affectionate friend Fida Taylor. 1712 Norris Street [*1876*] Philadelphia Penn 22 My dear friend I have been waiting from day to day, in the hope of finding leisure when not too weary, to write you. I owe you a better letter than I can possibly write, even in my best mood, and am unwilling to send something at this late day hurriedly written in the interval from watching. My Father has been, and is - yet, very ill, although now we hope surely recovering. He cannotsit up in bed even, but he is much less suffering. He had never quite recovered from his terrible illness of last winter but we hoped the sea voyage and change of air would perfect a cure. It did not however, and when we arrived over two weeks. ago he was not at all well. In a few days he grew much worse, and we have been nursing him since with great care, and anxiety. He wished before he was too ill to be moved, to join you, and try the "water Cure" - but it was soon too late, to move him. His physician advises very strongly his going to some sulphur springs to assist in removing the, Rhumatic poison from his system, and as soon as he is able, he will do so It is very fortunate that our Taylor came in time to attend to Father's business, so that his mind can be at rest. And for the reason that we are needed here, we have not yet been to see our Pa & Ma Taylor: in Oswego Co; but we hope soon to go, if only for a few days. We [?] also to visit a brother near Canaseraga and shall not be very far then from Danville, I am told, and if so, I must come to see you I do not feel that I couldfor a day or two and that is long enough to look forward too. You ask for Mrs Craddock; she is in better health and happier than when you knew her she has paid all the money Mr Taylor advanced her, and has her house full, with good prospects of making something more than a living. She is well suited for a lodging house, keeper, and we hope she will do well. Mr Hyatts family are just the same all well but himself. Lucy Lake is I believe engaged to a man every way worthy of her, though too poor, to marry at presant - Times are very hard in England, and Mr. Hyatt, feels it with the rest, but we hope he will get through without much loss, it is always gratifying to see such men & women as himself and wife rich because they are generous and kind in the right way and do good. Arthur has given up music as a profession and is in business with Mr Hyatt. - a good and trustworthy young man. The children are just the same the [*Mrs. Taylor - July 1876*] 1712 Norris Street Philadelphia July 27. My dear Miss Barton, I am very sorry to have left your precious letter so long unanswered, it gives us all, such happiness to hear from you. I am sure you do not imagine, the love, and veneration with which you are held by us, all, and yet I feel so utterly unable to write what can entertain you, in return, for the dear letters you send that I put off writing even when I know from past experience in what loving kindness you know when we can be at "The Home" with love again your affectionate friend Fida Taylor have always shown towards me. The pleasant news that I have to send you is that my Father is better: able to walk out a little and will, we hope be well enough to start for Meadville, by Wednesday of next week. The warm weather through which we have passed, has, the Dr thinks, saved his life, and it is no doubt very fortunate, that we left England. The constant perspiration has been a great benefit in this peculiar disease, which is blood poison He was not been feeling quite as well since the change, a week ago, and it is probable that if it continues as cool he will be benefited by going to a sulphur spring near his brothers in South Carolina; but will go first, to the West. My husband and I, will start as soon as soon as Father, and Mother, are safely in the Railway Carriage to find our relatives in Oswego Co, New York, and after a few weeks there we shall make you a short visit; oh, what a pleasure it will be to see you again. we do not need a second invitation. I should be very happy to take the treatment there too for a mouth if our time would permit as my Dr in London recommended me to try the "Water Cure" but I fear I must wait until my return to England though to be there near you would be everything to me and perfect a cure, I know. But we shall see you Page5 few years have given them inteligence and made them more interesting Laura Lake is with them still. Miss Kostright is the same, kind unselfish lady. Mr & Mrs Bacon with their two little girls are well, and also the Darlings.– The Sheppards we have lost sight of lately. The son you know is in this country. Mr McKean is still in London he had intended to come over with us but could not leave and I fear will not come this year much to the grief and disapointment of his Mother and sisters.– You have read with much interest I am sure the recent accounts of Stanley Explorations. I somehow feel that we have a little more thanordinary interest in him, after taking up his cause so warmly a few years ago in London, he will accomplish all that was promised for him. Mr Fowlers family are also well. we have often had the little reunions of which they make a large part at the two or three last Mrs Fowler has written some thing original to read. of course I have always read your letters, and every word you sent me. I was too proud, of every line, and too desirous to make all your friends happy. I had to give them the benefit of these Mr Covert who you will remember as the invalids you saw with Mr & Mrs Bason, writes that he is on his way from California, he has been nearly well for two years, but is suffering from his old trouble again. All our circle send much, very much love to you and we shall be glad to hear from you more pleased than we can tell I will let you -- in all good wishes, and love, oh to much of it from us both. Hoping to see you very soon and to hear also I remain as ever my cherished friend. Yours Affectionately Fida Taylor. -- [*Mrs. Fida Taylor - Pulaski N. Y. Ansd Aug 19. at both Pulaski & Cazenova*] Pulaski Aug 18th/76 My dear Clara, We were detained so long in Philadelphia, that our visit to you is still delayed but we hope to have at least one good days talk, face to face with you, in about two weeks now. I presume you have received a letter from my dear father ere this to tell you how rapidly he is recovering his strengthhe with mother is in Meadville Western Pennsylvania visiting and taking sulphur water. We came with them so far as Lupus near Elmira on the Erie Road, and, left them, to come to Father Taylors where we are having a pleasant busy time so many old friends of my husbands to see besides the relatives and everybody wants a visit I scarcely find time to take up a pen, and now the horses are waiting to take us with a number of friends to the lake shore for a kind of picnic and you will excuse so hurried a letter, please. I shall be glad to hear from you again if you receive this in time, send card or short note that - we may get it as early as Wednesday, and direct to care of David Taylor. Pulaski Oswego Co, N. Y. If not send to Care G. Washington Taylor. Cazenovia where we shall spend a few days. Perhaps I had better say that we may leave here Tuesday next. My husband joins meCazenovia Saturday My dearest Clara. We now expect to leave here next Monday morning at then and Syracuse at 11.a.m. for Auburn where if we hear from Mrs Osborn that she will be at home we shall spend the day. and go to Dansville. tuesday leaving by an early train. but I cannot say what hour we shall arrive. Hoping my dear friend to see you very soon and find you more comfortable forthe cooler weather. I will only wait now to send, oh, so much love, and best wishes from us both. I have heard very much from Bessie Brock of Mrs Leffingwell and shall be very pleased to meet her. In haste your devoted friend Fida H Taylor. Should Mrs Osborn not be at home we may see you Monday evening. F. [*Mrs. Fida Taylor Cazenovia August, 1876*] 10 Newton Terrace Westbourne Grove Nov 16th/76 My dear, dear Clara Can you imagine Fenner and I, once more fairly settled, in the old London lodgings, nothing changed in the surroundings, and with the same routine duties: claiming attention; It is easier for me now to realize this, than that our long anticipated, visit to the dear friends over there, is realy something, passed, and gone. It seems like a dream, all the delightful reunions, and pleasant days of intercourse: they were so fleeting, but we bring back memories very precious, that cannot leave us. - Very few familiar faces, have been missed from the well rememberedhomes, and time, has graciously spared all, at least there was nothing like the changes we were prepaired for either in looks, or in the good and lovable qualities, that endeared them long ago. Returning from such an Atmosphere, to Dark, foggy London, always dreary enough, at this season, and now, when the Eastern question if filling all minds, more, or less, and business everywhere much depressed doubly so. No wonder if it is not easy to content oneself with looking forward to brighter days. Yet they will come. All days are not dark, & dreary even here. – I wrote you just on the eve of leaving Philadelphia for a hurried day, and a half in New York, before sailing, time, much too short, for the work to be done, arriving in the City, only at noon, on Thursday we were at once taken by a friend to his home, on Staten Island. where were assembled many old acquaintances, and before dinner were taken for a drive about the Island. How beautiful it is. In crossing over the hills, to the other side, the views of the sea, the shores, and the great cities, in the distance make one of the most perfect pictures in the world, do you not think so? – The next day, was spent in making a few last calls, in New York. several friends met us there, and it was a pleasant, though busy day. Our call upon Mrs Cleveland, was saddened. by her husbands illness, she sent for us to come up however, and we spent a half hour. she was of course in deep distress, poor Lady; – Saturday, October 7th on board the Steamer[*Mrs F. B. Taylor London Ansd New Years 1877.*] Egypt, we passed out through that beautiful Bay. Everything bright with the morning light of a lovely day upon it. and so we will remember it. until blessed again, by the sight. - Our hearts were not as cheery as the surroundings for when the last line faded away we felt - out indeed upon the sea alone. Even Father, and Mother left behind, but I am glad to have come with my husband, nearly every day he says, "What would I have done [k?ith?] here without you", and that is enough to make one content and happy. The first three days of our voyage was pleasant, then came a north west storm with heavy gales that continued all the rest of the way over - We came up the Mersey in a dense fog and rain, spent one night in Liverpool to rest. Page 5 And next day came to London It rained in the morning but the sun soon came out, making the green, and perfectly cultivated fields, with the hedge's all very pretty. This is a beautiful country at any time but especialy is it appreciated after Eleven day of Ocean traveling – Found Lottie with a welcome, and were soon established in the old quarters. All the acquaintances are well and as kind as one could wish Those who knew you were very glad to hear all the news I have of you, the Hyatts in particular. I received a paper from you with an account of the anniversary of the "Hill side home" for which I thank you very much. and I hope soon to have a letterYou cannot know how much I prize every stroke of your pen. Never is one distroyed, and they are read over and over again-- I am so happy, to possess, any thing of your composition and it is very kind of you to give them me; Yet you are not strong and have so many claims upon your strenth that I should be modest in asking, having nothing but love and admiration to give in return, - nor must I weary you again, with such a long letter but it has been a pleasure to talk to you thus, and you will forgive. Remember me kindly to Miss Atwater tell her I shall thank her for the kind things she does for my dear friend. My husband joins me in oceans of love. Yours Affectionately Fida H Taylor Western Union Telegraph Company. William Orton, Pres't } New York. A.R. Brewer, Sec'y, Dated Rochester NY [?] 1876 Received at 103// Am To Clara Barton We leave Rochester at four thirty for Dansville F B TaylorTelegram - F B. Taylor - From Rochester to Hillside - Monday Morning. Nov 8th/80 My dear dear Clara How can I thank you enough for the dear precious letters. sent me. for the confidence. and friendship they bring. as well as the cheery news of your cherished self There is only one thing wanting and that is that you did not speak of coming here Oh Clara how much joy it would give this household to see you in our midst. and every one whom you would meet would rejoice to see you. Must we wait a whole long year before such happiness is allowed us, I have been very busy finishing a table on marble in imitation of Florentine mosaic which had been promised to a "Loan Exhibition. and had not time even to write a few words of thanks to go with the return letter. until now and I could not seal an envelope addressed to you without as you will I hope pardon the delay. I cannot see how Katie could fail to do what she so faithfully promised, and since she can, she is not worthy another thought, indeed one who could have been so ungrateful did not deserve such, (more than kindness, at your hand. - Mr Ferguson called saturday evening to see if he could do anything for you, in regard to something of which he had been written but I thought there was nothing, and [let?left?] the matterdrop with saying one would of what the business was. nor do I know if he knew. He is very sad over the loss of his only daughter, I have not seen Mrs Boynton for several weeks, but will do so and give your messages as well as the papers to read, and I hope in a few days to see Mr Douglass. I received today a good letter from Mrs Green. she always inquires for you I shall send her the papers soon. Was hoping the one would come with the last. address to the soldiers from your own house. how I wish I could have heard it but you will not fail to send me some copies as soon as you have them. My cousin comes down all dressed to go out and I must go with her all our friends are well. I have wished to paint something on porcelain for you and have a design of the "Iron Cross of Merit" to put on a bread and milk bowl and plate, but have not been able to remember the colors. Could you send me just a scrap of the ribbon showing the shades and a discription of the pendant. I would like to have done it as a surprise but knew of no design so suitable, and wishing to make it exact could not do otherwise than ask for a minute discription. Love from all oh so much. Your admiring and faithful friend Fidelia [*Taylor*] Love to all at Brightside Blue anchor The story of Katie under the [....................] [of Mrs Shepard?] [....................] part of dear [.........................................] [The memory of bitter bitter?] days [What a world of trouble?] from first to last Dansville Sat. 30 1880 My dear dear Fida! How shall I sufficiently thank you for the excellent part you have taken. and the difficult work you have done? and done so well but then I knew this part of it before it was undertaken. I want to make my whole letter one continued thank. but you want something else and shall have it. First you will wonder at the two or three days delay since the receipt of your welcome, so welcome letter telling me the disagreeable task was performed; but when a little farther on I tell you all that has been crowded into this week from Monday till Sat. you will no longer wonder. it has been a week of desperate disapation. and crowded to ridiculousness - Ill tell you all about it - But now to poor Katie and theunpleasant things to be resolutely taken once more like a bitter dose and then done with forever – they are not worthy to sulley the fair loving pages of our correspondence and shall not. – I have not yet heard from Katie and may not – at least she will not write till she has taken advices – I did not expect that – she is in the toils & I expect lost no time after you left her in going to her Mentors and [becoming] relating all that had transpired & came away feeling very differently from the moment you left her – this was the reason I forbid her to keep my letter it would be just the thing desired to take and pick in pieces – sentence by sentence before her eyes till she would in her characterless credulity come to feel it to be all false – as they would tell her it was – she must not have it, does not deserve it, cannot have that to keep among her treasures – its loss if she considers it such must be the small penalty she must pay for her rebellion, and I desire you to send it back to me, – it was only a message – not correspondence – and not to be kept as such. – if she writes I will tell her about it myself – if she does not – she has letters enough of mine The facts are. she is of a strata lower than respectable ladies are accustomed to or can readily take in – it needs an old detective, used to the "slum" like your poor loving friend to to discern their course of action from their status – Katy is a born & bred daughter of a bigoted old Catholic mother & a beggar at that trained to deception and believes in it. She is like a cat: sly by nature – and can be used on two sides at the same time – it was because I knew all this that I felt justified in putting that bad business into hands as high as yours = otherwise II should have employed a far less less worthy medium - or possibly none at all Both you and I have done our best to save her from wrong action and feeling and to preserve her future peace and old time trust - now let us let it rest. if she chooses to go with manners she must go - Thanks and blessings to you my dearest & most trusted friend. I have no longer any obligations to her - nothing that belongs to her and can afford to let it drop. If she writes I shall tell you all about it. if not I shall not have you troubled any farther with this disagreeable business. - One other thing I must set right - you did not quite understand my blind letter in one particular - it was not that any one accused you of not telling when you received letters from me - rather the contrary - I saw it was Mrs Shepards habit - after I left - to drop in upon you and pick up any little word that might be dropped that I had written you, and make much of it - and find herself abused because I did not write it to her - and to such an 2 and to such an extent was this thing carried [not only with] with all my acquaintances there that I grew afraid to write any one. It was not Fannie. She was with me at the time and in constant receipt of dispatches & private intelligence which she received in the same way that you recollect to have seen her handle my correspondence to select her own when at your house she continued this as long as she remained, and I knew she dared not trust the superscription of her letters to be seen - She has written me but the one letter, of which you have seen [all ... ...?] It was while Mrs S was your neighbor that this went on and I was ill in bed from its effects - I did not reply after it came too hot, my self respect would not allow if I had the strength and I opened no letters after that; and finally they ceased to come directly. but [three?] of which I have sent you copies are the same thing through other hands - written by instigation - any way to make a sting reach me. You tried hard to make peace you good child - I remember once you wrote me that Mrs S had called a few days previous and spoken very kindly and you added - "she loves you" - almost the same just not a letter from Mrs S herself in which she called me everything - accused me of every thing for having been so insincere as to write you things which I ought to have written to her, and I had every evidence - till no doubt was left that copies of these letters were which were written me - were sent also to Fannie. and by her circulated among such of my neighbors as she dared to approach (and she formed a strong clique of them.) and sent also to NY through Nelly - you can see what my position could have been but I mentioned it to no living mortal - not a person (unless Minnie who saw) dreamed that I had a thought of such transactions - I never mention any name of them all - never write a word - This my darling is all that has ever gone from my pen - not even a word to Dorr. - You are not involved in it - not in the least - and my darling I was determined you should not be. and for this, I did not write you at all. I would hold you out of it = and you must not get near it now.It is my "old man of the woods" and I must meet him alone - you must not think I have any unkind feeling towards any of them. I can see the [springs?] of it all - a part are leaders, and a part are dupes and follow blindly and shout to order, and feel the same degree of anamosity as if it really concerned them. Some one has failed in a clever little plot = and cannot [forgi] forget nor forgive it, they will try to make up for it by black mail if possible. their force is pretty strong, and they make all possible [accessions?] to it - more than one or two friendly spies have been sent to me to draw out a word of defamation from me. - putting the words into my mouth. I have spit them out [...] and given in their [its] place such a volley of laudation - such praise - as the would be abused party never received in their lives before, and the sly emissaries go away defeated. - I knew that Katy would not write me until she had reported, and when she did she would be turned half way around again, but no matter she has heard the facts - received her possessions - confessed her wrong and listened to my request for forgiveness - if she chooses to withhold it I cannot help it. I will wait and see which overcomes, - her instigaters or her own convictions, but the letter you will please send back to me - they cannot draw letters through others, any more than they can get get them direct from me - to use against me, so my dear send it back to me, and perhaps this too, unless you prefer to destroy it - There are one or two things that Fanny left because she could not take [...] around through her journey. and I made no promise or offer to send them after her, and they are not of any value, and I presume she does not so regard them, still they will come to be represented as invaluable, & magnified to suit [a 50?] news paper premium chromo - will be excellent to a beautiful oil painting which I with hold, [and?] shall and four common earthen dinner plates which were her mothers, and which she said I had better keep in the place of the many of mine she had broken "will grow" into a beautiful set of china which her mother left her and which she could not conveniently or safely take when she left - and which I do not give up - So I shall have these insignificant things packed, boxed, - paid, and sent to her even to the last shadow of a possession, and I may need you to help me to the address - And a few things that poor Melcher ran off and left I want to send to her through Mrs French, if she can attend to it. I am determined to clear my house of all these storages which are here & put upon me simply because I have a house to keep them in, and they know I will take care of things and then quarrel or disgrace me for it - They will all go now and forever 3 Do not I beg of you my dear Fida think that I am offended or harbor any ill will or hatred towards these persons. Not in the least. I could forgive them every word and act and hold them as friends if they would - just as I always would have done, but I cannot withstand such coarse personal abuse - it would kill me if I had to hear or read it - such falsehood [such?] injustice -. they know them to be false - I never write to, or in any way communicate with any of Fanny's brothers. have never sent a scrap or line to Dorr. Since he left San Francisco three years ago. Two years ago I replied to a second announcement of the marriage of her youngest brother Francis. This is all the communication I have had with any member of her family or any friend of hers. - can she say as much for herself? And the Photograph of Dorrs which she [makes?] such [handle?] of she had in her own hands with all the rest of my papers after we left Washington all the time, till a few weeks before she left here - she slipped it slyly into a drawer of mine. = it came to me the day I broke down in Washington & came to you - I handed it to her with mine, & the letter - she picked up all my things as you know, and packed them for homecame herself, and unpacked them, and brot them to me in my bed as I needed them but those papers I never looked over till after she was gone - and should never have seen the photo till after, if she had not [slyly?] left it lain it near me in my [already?] [d?o aher?] After she had made her mischief over it & written to Dorr [&?] all the world that I withheld her brothers picture from her She had great help in all [her?] little plots - she has not the [head peaces?] to do it of herself - but is a Good tool and a Merciless executor I am sorry for her, not a bit. I think she will do well & perhaps make a mark in the world but she is being wickedly trained. And will become dangerous & one day she may ends up paying for it [*re Mrs Shephard Blue Anchor*] Friday Feb 19th/ 81 My dear Clara I have just this Moment received your Letter of the 17th and hasten to say that I should certainly think it best for you to come! have desired it always. and especialy now that you are well enough to carry out your plans. No one can do it well. but your dear self and no one else ought to try. I have heard nothing of any moove in the matter. at all - since two winters ago. Mrs S. has been getting up an association to provide a fund, for the Life Saving bureau or rather to aid that departmentgoing beyond its. duties the bureau provides only the men, and stations, but no clothing for those rescued and I have heard that the association contemplated more, and that societies were to be formed in all the cities the first was organized in New York with Mrs Chief Justice Waite as prsident + Mrs Kent and many wealthy ladies taking an interest in it but I did not know that it was to take the place of the Red +. Today a Lady came to me from Mrs S. or rather who had seen her yesterday and spoke of a branch to be started in Boston, and that circulars were out. I will if one can be obtained, send one to you. I fear that under this new name, something bearing upon the same. plan of operation with the Red + is intended, but if so it has been kept very quiet, and I do not think anything has been done in Congress. if so I have not heard of it. - We have had a house full of company for over four weeks. Dr Robbins his wife and two young lady daughters besides a cousin, so that every bed and sofa have been full. They will leave sometime next week all but the cousin and on thursday Mrs Porter of Meadville will be here, she has been kept waiting two weeks for a room with us, but I think we shall be able to make you comfortable, at least we should try very hard to do so. Oh how much we need a large house, - and if my dear husband gets even half, what is due him, we shall build next summer. - but for the present we desire very much to see you and shall leave nothing undone to further your coming, had we known of the possibility sooner the whole house would have been at your disposal. I have been too busy since the newspaper slip came, to do much about it, but my heart is in it, and if it can be arranged it must be. Yes I am lonely, but frequent letters help me to bear the burden I have only a minute before post time. Ever with love from all. Your devoted friend Fidelia H Taylor 1013 T Street, N. W. Sunday July 10th [*1881*] My dear, dear Friend, Your good kind letter of July 4th came on the 6th making me the happier as any word from you always does. and much as I miss your presence from the City, I am glad in the hope that you are now in quiet Dansville, where you will find rest, and peace I trust, and strength to come again to us, next winter - I am so sorry - for the last sad week. so many terable tragedies cowded together were enough. especially with the load of duties put upon you to carry, to have. broken, almost anyone, so grieved for the grief it will give her and so wanting to be with my dear Husband, who also has a claim on me, but I must wait. Write me when you can & command me always and I will do my best to serve. Love from us all. Your devoted friend Fidelia If Stephen is with you our kindest Remembrance, down and I shall wait anxiously, another letter hoping to hear that. Your pleasant home and surroundings. have been all that was needed to counteract the great pressure of the past three months. We all rejoice today, that our President still lives, and in the hope of final recovery oh, what hours, and days of anxiety, were those, while his life was in such - peril, and in the midst of all else, came the fear for Red Cross organization, so safely launched. with the promise of support from the present Government. but had new powers taken the head, I feared the work would need doing over, Now however all will be well. I do have faith to believe - You ask me to let you know all the things. you need to know and I surely will, but most likely everything will rest quietly now through the summer. nothing new has been published that has come to my knowledge. Perhaps you have seen the June No of the "Alpha". I called on Mrs O'Conner a few days ago, and she called my attention to it and wanted me to tell her what it meant. I told her that it was a great unkindness to you, as well as injustice to publish such an article, that it was entirely uncalled for &c &c. How good and kind you had been to Mrs Shepard, and had only done her good always. Mrs OConnor asked me to go to Mrs Winslow and explain to her, but I should not like to go to a friend of Mrs S who was a comparitive stranger to me to make complaintthat you were above all such need, but that she, as a friend of Mrs Winslow might say what I said, knowing that every word was absolutely true. Mrs OConnor said that the Alpha must not be used to favor personal, selfish, and wicked ends. I will send the paper as you may not have seen it. and if you have, it can do no harm. It is not yet decided whether Mr Taylor comes soon, or I go to him but we shall know in a few days If he does not come, he will send the papers you ask for. by post and perhaps they may be here in a few days. when I will forward them. I have no news. only that we had a pleasant call from Mr Furgesson and Mrs Gould and they are well. Have not seen Nellie. I am not feeling well today - am anxious in spite of myself, about what I shall need to do: It will be so hard to leave dear Papa & Mama If not delivered within 10 days, to be returned to [*Answered July 14 . 1881 Mrs. Fida Taylor - Blue anchor*] WASHINGTON JUL 11 1 PM 1881 D.C. Clara Barton, Dansville Livingstone Co New York. [*Answered - Nov. 19, 1881 Fida Taylor - *] WASHINGTON NOV 17 7 PM 1881 D.C. Clara Barton, Dansville, Livingstone Co, New, York,DANSVILLE JULY 13 12 M N.Y. DANSVILLE MAY 19 12 M N.Y. 1013 T Street, N.W. Nov 16,th /81. My dear dear Clara. Your precious letter of the 14th came this afternoon. and it is too late to look about for rooms, but I will write to tell you that I will do so, and let you know, only would it not be the best way for you to come directly to us, and have time to look about, to find what will just suit you. Mr Sliney has rented his house, to a Newspaper -Man, who is in Genl Boyntons - office. I do not now remember the name, and it is possible there may be a room there, but Mrs Sliney is at this moment very ill. Last Sunday evening she was deliveredof a fine large baby girl. only ill about two hours, but has since been a great sufferer, Yesterday they sent three times for Dr Bliss, and again in the night, when Mother was there today, she was a little more comfortable and we hope she will soon be better. - If they were to keep the house during the winter you could find a pleasant home there, but now my advise is that you should come here first and then we will see what can be done. We have a Girl, now from the Country who relieves us of the work and you can have my room until Fenner comes home, oh how I long for a larger house, and I do hope we will have one, some day. Yes I am at home again, and my dear little Mothers heart is glad as well as mine. It was lonesome to come home to find the dear husband away, but oh we have had a delightful time together since he came back, until his going west, a great happiness after the long seperation. It was a busy summer too, for I gave lessons every day while in Syracuse, and worked hard while in New York. I was very sorry that I did not know that you were there, it would have been so pleasant to see you, but now you will soon be here, and we can make up for it in past. Mr Taylor is still in St Louis, and will be away three weeks longer, then I hope he will find something to do here You had a good visit at Mr Sheldons, am so glad you went there they so much wanted you to come all the years back, Lottie is now in Concord N.H. on a visit. Remember us all to the good Brightside people. should liketo see them all again. Mrs Dall, sent love, when I was there Monday last, she called on you after you had left. Write soon and let us know when you will come, and if my advise meets your approval. You probably know that Mrs Reynolds has passed away, quietly as a child sleeps, she, left her earthly home and Mrs Marvin is lonely and sad. I have not heard from Mrs Boynton yet. will very soon go to see her. All our circle send love to you, ever Your devoted friend Fidelia H Taylor, [*30*] Sunday evening Jan 7th 1883 My dear, dear Clara. Barton. I was so very pleased to get your kindest, and best of letters last friday - and I started at once, to make the call. as you wished me to do. but remembered that as she was in office, she would not be at her rooms until late, and as it was a cold uncomfortable day I decided to come home, without seeing Mrs Moses. I will try again very soon however, the very first opportunity. of course now that - Father and Fenner are both away I have no escort for the evenings and my days are, oh, so busy, fuller than ever before. I go to Annapolis Very great Love believe me - Your devoted friend Fidelia [*Taylor*]Maryland, every week - going tuesday and returning wednesday evening at half past seven, I have two large classes there, in painting, all wives, and daughters of the officers. stationed in the Yard. of the Naval Academy, most charming ladies, and the homes there as you perhaps know, are very charming. I am provided with every comfort by the ladies in turn, and everything is made as pleasant as possible. - There about sixteen in the two classes at a dollar each, per lesson, and as the expense is only two dollars it is profitable, too. This however crowds my numerous pupils here into four days, and that will tell you, how busy I am, for there is no playing if one earns from ninety to a hundred dollars a month And all this good fortune comes from your urging the beginning, at Sandown, eleven years ago. I am sure I should never have tried painting, but for that opportunity and I shall never forget to thank you for it. It is such a happiness to me to be able to do so much for the dear ones now. Father & Fenner. can work away at the mines, without a thought of any expense here, and so long as I keep well, there will be enough for all our comforts, What a joy this is to me. [Now] You will know, and feel, and you are glad too, in your goodness of heart, that you helped me to be able to do it. We are hoping to see you here soon - come here. direct and see if we cannot make you comfortable Mrs Hollister is with us andwe three are living alone; - I can sleep with Mother, and my room will be at your service if you will accept it. - You know that we shall be glad to have you here. - Mr Taylor has been away ten weeks, but they are very busy starting Mills &c, and he cannot come just yet, though he may be here in a week, for a few days. Mr Mackean, is urging very much his going to Paris and he may go as soon as the work at the mines are well started. Mother is very well this winter and sends great love to you. I have not seen Mrs Marvin for two months, indeed I do not go out often. Mother is waiting for me to go to bed, and I must leave this hurried letter you will excuse I know all its short comings and faults; and we will talk everything over when you come love to everybody at 40 York Place I wish I could see them. and with [*Ans'd by going - to Washington - Feb 24 Fidelia Taylor*] Monday Morning Feb 17th My dear Clara. I have been trying to find time, even times recieving your precious letter two weeks ago, to answer it, but you will forgive any inability to do so, when we have Company and there are so many demands upon me. Mr & Mrs Porter of New York came [when] when expected, I think the day after my last letter was written, and we enjoyed every moment of their visit. It was Mrs P.s first sight of Washington, and we were out every day but one. It brought back many weeks of wanderings about European cities together. for they were in England. during the first six years of our stay abroad. and we went to Belgium, Germany, and the Rhine, to France. Scotland, and manyplaces in England and Wales. in Company. Now we are to have a few days, alone, until next Thursday morning when A Cousin, his wife, and Miss Belle Tinker, are expected from Meadville after that, for two or three weeks, the time will be fully taken up, so that some of the many things waiting to be said to you, must go now. First of all how glad, and happy it makes us, to hear that you are getting better. a great part of our disappointment at the [...?] loss of your Companionship during this winter, will be made up, if you can only regain all the strength you have lost, and we can hope that next winter you will come again. No other house. "No 2" will be needed, for since our servant rooms at home, and F. & I, find the little bedroom so comfortable, There will always be a room for you, and you will believe in our [*Ans'd by going - to Washington - Feb 24 Fidelia Taylor*] truth and sincerity when we say how much we like to have you with us. May we not hope? --- About the house. I surely did not know before you wrote me, that it was not well cared for. - I ought to have gone there to look after it, and confess that I am sorry, for what may seem a neglect, but my dear, dear friend it was so sad to go there, reminding as it did of so many painful things, and I selfishly gave way to feelings that should have been put aside. - Once Fenner and I, went through the house with Mr Sliney, it was rather late after his turn from office, but everything seemed well enough, all the rooms were empty. except the front parlor, in which was a bed two or three chairs, and dressing bureau. in the back parlor were some books, piled on the floor.and the dining room was rather full of things. the writing and dining tables were covered with papers, and books, writing materials &c. but the floor was clean, and so was the kitchen I saw nothing to complain of, and when Mr Ashley, (the lawer for Mr [McCullock.?) said, he would surely advise the owner to keep possession until the lien was taken off - I suggested the same to you. I also said to Mrs Shepard, when she was in here one evening after writing you, to wait, until we should hear something before they mooved, but of course all necessity is removed now, and they would not have gone, if I had said nothing, but I am sorry that I even said, wait a few days. Saturday Mrs Sliney sent for me and then told me that she could not send anyone into the house as Mrs Shumaker Page 5 who had gone through with several people had complained, that it was in such condition, that no one would buy it, and Mrs Sliney thought I could perhaps give you a hint of how matters were, and that you would advise them to moove, but I know how very hard this will be for your kind heart, and thought that you could suggest to General Whitaker to say that he prefered the house to be unoccupied, as it is in his charge to sell, and then you would be relieved of all responsibility about it. I think Mrs Shepard has been out every day for weeks looking after a "place" and Saturday she came in to show some shells she had painted for sale, then she said she should know this Monday -- morning, whether she should succeed in getting a clerkship, or not. if sothey will go down town at once and there will be no need to say anything which will be best. - She has been earning a little from the sale of the shells she has painted, but I think that is all they have had, and I hope she may have, the position she seeks, but think it doubtful. While Mrs Porter was here she sent in one of her little "Marine pictures," that was quite pretty, and Miss P. desired to see others, hoping to select a pair to help her, and I went for them, then Mrs Shepard told me, that she thought best to go on with the "Red Cross" work, that Mrs Waite, was going to talk to the President, and if no favorable answer was given, she thought it best to take the question to Congress that the "work was too great to be laid aside." I do not suppose she can accomplish anything now so near the close of Congress, but still the matter has troubled me somewhat, for I feel that no steps can be taken in it, without your full sanction and help, and so said to her, but my word can have no weight I know, [with her]. She thinks she has done so much, while I have of course done nothing. which is all true. I have no self interest in it, other than the wish to see something so worthy, carried out to its best aims, and success, but I know one to whom belongs the work, and who is able, to make it what it ought to be, a credit to the Country, and a great boon to its people. Anything in the world that I could do to help in any smallest, of small ways I would do, to help you, but with the hope that you will soon beable to undertake it. I am much averse to have the matter get into other hands. Mrs Sliney knows a friend of Mrs Waites who intimated that Mrs W will not help Mrs Shepard while thinking well of the Red Cross: but I do not know how that will be. - If you think well to do anything about it, now your self, I think a letter from you to Mrs Waite, which I could take to her, would do well, and with Mr Hoyts letter you could write the President but you must do just as your strength, and wishes dictate about it. I shall be glad to carry out any commands you may give, to the letter. do not think anything can give trouble. you know I would like to do something for love of you. I trust you are well and strong enough for so long a letter now. Have you Page 9 heard of the death of dear Mrs Fowler of London? It must have so soon followed the cards she sent us just before Christmas which were written upon with her own hand. how much we shall prize them now since they are the last we shall ever have from her. What a sad household she leaves. She was one to be missed very much. A long and excellent letter comes this morning from good Mrs Justice, in which she says, that Mrs Hyatt has been called over her very suddenly by the death of some friend [here], but did not know who. We shall probably see her here. Just now Mrs Shepard came in with the enclosed notes from Mrs Waite, which I have begged, to send to you, with the promise that youreturn them after reading them. What will you think of putting the matter in your own name through Congress (No, I do not mean that exactly. - I am very unparliamentary,) but - having it done as you proposed in the fall. Mrs Shepard says several Members advise it and think that now it may be done even so near the close of the session and Mr Waite told Mrs Shepard that the only way was to send it to Congress, that the President had no power to sign it without the concurance of the Senate - What would you think of asking Mrs Waite to become a member of our association she could work in the matter, and could not be ambitious except for the work: and would recognize you for its head: If you propose it by letter we could confer together. Mr Hitz is just now busy about other things. write very soon dear. Accept oceans of love from us all - Ever your devoted friend Fida. In looking over this letter I find it full of mistakes, but you will I hope accept it in love. believing I wish to say and do the right thing. - I must add that Lottie has written at last a very kind letter asking forgiveness for the past, and friendship in the future She says she is at last happily married to an American, who is kindness itself. He owns a house, and grounds with fine trees, garden, a horse, and Cow, and all necessary things for her Comfort, she "is very happy, all the bitter is gone out of her, and she does not feel that it can ever come again," she is now Mrs Wilcox and lives at deep River Conn, where she has two spare rooms and hopes we will all come and make them a visit in which Mr Wilcox joins. I am very very glad of this and you will be too. love to all the Brightside people. Do they say anything about the promisedvisit Tell Miss Austin I will write her the first leisure. Lovingly, Fidelia Tell us of Ira. is he realy better. Jan 26th My dear dear Clara. Your precious letter of the 7th came safely as did the photographs which are excellent, and I would thank you very, very much for them all, the addresses too. but the little printed article in regard to the Movement did not come enclosed as you intended. I made search while the letter was yet in my hand. without finding it, so presume it will be in your portefolio I find that I need it as it explains what should be said about design &c. better than words of Mine. And will you also thank Prof. Hubbell for the kind letter he has sent. Itis just what I want in talking to any Members of the Committee and I am very much obliged. When I can send some news I will write him. which will be soon I hope. I shall try to do all as you would wish. and promise to say nothing to any but such, as you think would aid, in the matter. Please send the slip if you have it. No News as yet from Fenner, but expect a letter today. The storms delayed and the Baltic only reached Liverpool a week ago last Monday. Dr Robbins, his wife and two daughters are with us, and with my painting lessons am very busy all send love Affectionately, Fidelia.