Feinberg/Whitman Box 9 Folder 7 General Correspondence Doyle, Peter Jan. 1874-Nov 1879 undatedThe picture at the beginning of this letter is the St Louis bridge over the Mississippi river - I often go down to the river or across this bridge -it is one of my favorite sights - but the air of this city don't agree with me - I have not had a well day, (even for me, ) since I have been here ------------------ - Well Pete dear boy I guess I have written enough - How are you getting along ? I often think of you & no doubt you often do of me - God bless you, my darling friend, & however it goes, you must try to keep up a good heart - for I do ---------- So long - from your old Walt [*1879*] Int [?] to act of Congress in the year 1877 A.D. by [?] in the Office of the Librarian of Congress at Washington Sold by Willie H. Gray, 306 & 308 Olive St. St. Louis Missouri 2316 Pine Street Nov 5 Dear Pete You will be surprised to get a letter from me away off here -I have been taking quite a journey the last two months - have been out to the Rocky Mountains and Colorado (2000 miles) (Seems to me I sent you a paper six weeks ago from Denver - I got along very well till about three weeks ago when I was taken sick & disabled & hauled in here in St Louis for repairs, have been here ever since -am fixed comfortable - Still somewhat under the weather, (but have no doubt I shall be well as usual for me before long)- Shall stay here probably two or three weeks longer, & then back east to Camden -Pete This is a wonderful country out here, & no one knows how big it is till he launches out in the midst of it -- But there are plenty of hard-up fellows in this city & out in the mines, & all over here - you have no idea how many run ashore, get sick from exposure poor grub &c - many young men, some old chaps, some boys of 15 or 16 - - I met them every where, especially at the RR stoppings, out of money & trying to get home -- But the general run of all these Western places, city & country is very prosperous, on the rush! plenty of people plenty to eat, & apparently plenty of money -- Colorado you know is getting to be the great silver land of the world - In Denver I visited a big smelting establishment, purifying the ore, goes through many processes - takes a week - well they showed me silver there by the cart load - There in middle Colorado, in one place, as we stopt in a mining camp I saw rough bullion bars piled up in stacks outdoors five or six feet high like hay cocks _ -- So it is -- a few make great strikes - like the prizes in the lottery - but most are blanks - - I was at Pikes Peak - I liked Denver City very much - But the most interesting part of my travel has been The Plains, (the Great American Desert the old geographies call it, but it is no desert) largely through Colorado & Western Kansas, all flat, hundreds & even thousands of miles - some real good, nearly all pretty fair soil, all for stock raising, thousands of herds of cattle some very large -the herdsmen (the principal common employment) a wild hardy race, always on horseback, they call 'em cow-boys altogether - - I used to like to get among them & talk with them ---- I stopt some days at a town right in the middle of those Plains, in Kansas, on the Santa Fe road - found a soldier there who had known me in the war 15 years ago. - was married & running the hotel there - I had hard work to get away from him- - he wanted me to stay all winter - [*1873 or '4*] 431 Stevens St, Camden, Cor West. N. Jersey [*75?*] [*74?*] June 25, Dear boy Pete, I have weathered it out pretty well this week -at present moment am sitting here cover'd with sweat, with nothing on but shirt & pants - to-day & yesterday the very hottest kind -- I suppose you have it too. - Pete there is nothing new in my case, & no prospect more than usual of anything sudden - but it seems pretty clear that there is no substantial recovery probable (hardly possible) for me -- how long it will last this way it is of course impossible to tell - I take it all without growling - things are steadilygrowing worse with me - - But I must not worry you - & may be there is something more favorable ahead -- I busy myself a little every day writing - I want to fix my books in a little better shape this summer - - partly busy with a new volume - so that they will all be comprised in Two Vols. -(not very much really new matter, but some) -- So you dont come on to Balt. now, (as i take it from your last) - Love to you, dear son. Walt Love to Mr. & Mrs. Nash __ do you ever see Mrs. O'Connor or Eldridge? - Is Tasistro still around?[*1874 or 5*] 431 Stevens st. March 20, 4 1/2 P.M. Dear boy Pete, Nothing particular or new in my condition - I have been to the Doctor's to-day - had quite a long interview -no great satisfaction -- I still have pretty uncomfortable times - & yet I keep up good heart in the main. I will make out only a short letter this time, I see. Good bye my loving son. I will try to do better next week. Walt431 Stevens st. Camden, N. Jersey May 1 - 2 p.m. [*1874*] Dear Pete, I have been out halting around for a walk, as it is quite pleasant to day -- But I believe I have overdone the matter, as I have a pretty bad feeling the last hour or two both in the head & left side, - & as I sit here writing, -- So your limited express seems to be a real success - - if it keeps up as well as it has begun I have no doubt it will increase, & be patronised & become a permanent institution -- ( I had got the idea, somehow, at first that the same crew went through from Wash. to New York, & so wassome in hopes of seeing you in Philadelphia) --------- No change in my condition or prospects -- the young man, Walter Godey, still works as my substitute in the Solicitor's office - I haven't had any word from Eldridge in two months, nor from Mrs. O'Connor in some time -(have you been up there?) Do you see [?] or Tasistro? -- My sister has just called me to my dinner - so I will close for this time. Your old Walt[*1874*] 431 Stevens st. Camden. cor West. [*1874*] N. Jersey. May 22 - 3 1/4 p.m. Dear Pete, I hope you will be able to come, as you said in your last - If I knew when & where you would arrive in Philadelphia, I would try to meet you -- As I wrote you before you must come to Market st. ferry Philadelphia, a mile and half or 2 miles from RR depot & cross over by boat to Federal st Camden -- (The Phil horse cars run Sundays -- run down to foot of Market st but the Camden ones do not - - but it is not very far from the ferry in Camden.)I am very much the same - My being disabled & want of Exercise, for 16 months (and many other wants too.) have saddled me with serious dyspepsia & what the doctor call gastric catarrh, very obstinate causing me really more suffering & pain than my paralysis --- but though I have bad spells enough, thank God I also have middling good ones -- & as I write this have just had my dinner, nice salt oysters, raw, fresh & am feeling quite comfortable - Dear son I shall look for you Walt431 Stevens st. [*1874 or '5*] cor West Camden, [*74?] Jan 9. Well Pete, my dear loving boy. I have just come in from a 15 minutes walk outside, with my little dog - it is now 1/2 past 1 Friday afternoon - the bright sun shining, & the air & every thing as pleasant as one could wish - (after most a week of rainy, dark & disagreeable but warmish weather ) - I have the same old story to tell, & thankful enough to have nothing worse to communicate - it is probable I am really slowly gaining - though I have occasional bad spells yet.Your letter was received - I was thinking whether something could not be done about getting the position of through baggage master - I feel inclined to try for you - (You know there is nothing of that sort done without trying) -- Did you get the story "Rolling Stone," I sent by P.O. ? I have had a visitor from New York this forenoon - an old acquaintance, a printer & foreman, I knew 20 years ago, very sickly & expecting to die at that time - now quite lively & well, really jolly & magnetic, & good company, & a good fellow (like Parker Milburn) - I have an occasional visitor, but not many - Pete if you see any body coming to Phil. you think I would like to see, give 'em my address - I am glad to see most everyone for a change - Your old Walt431 Stevens st. [*1874*] cor West. Camden, N.J. [*74 ?*] Jan 2 - 12 M. Dear boy, I am about the same - consider myself improving, if any thing though slowly enough -- Pete I will get you the Dictionary. I will see about it soon. You spoke about the post of baggage master on the through New York train -& the appointment being in Philadelphia . Who appoints them ? Tell me more fully about it in your next. I got your last letter, & several papers. To-day I have rec'd a letter from Charles Eldridge - We have had a long rainy *& dark time here, but mild - no snow on the ground now - I go out - as I write, the trains are going by about 400 feet ringing and smoking - There are 20 a day in full view from here. Walt. [I send you a picture for your New Years.]1[2]7 8 25 | 34 17 [*1875*] 431 Stevens st cor West, Camden, N.J. [*Jan 74 ?*] Friday forenoon 11 1/2 [*16thJan 74*] Well son, how do you make out this cold weather ? for I suppose you are having it there as we are here - we had quite a snow storm here three or four nights ago, & since then if has cleared off bitter cold, - (thermometer at 10 above an hour ago, at our west door.) - Still I go out some, though very stiff - & lately some spells in my head rather bad & queer, What I have said in former letters about my general strength still holds good - otherwise I am in a bad way yet & dont consider myself out of the woods, have not been so well as usual the last week If you come across the Weekly Graphic just out get it, as I have commenced a series of pieces about things just before & during the war. The series is to continue through four or five numbers. Get one for Mr & Mrs. Nash -- Pete I rec'd the "Golden Grain" -also the Cotter, Herald, & Repub. -send me one of the latter, occasionally [I had rather have it than any --] (but you needn't put yourself out to get it) - As I write the sun is shining bright & clear as can be - the ground is [wh] white with snow in all directions, it is not melting anywhere - - as I crossed the river yesterday toward dusk, the old fellow, the charge of the ferry house, told me that between 12 & 2 o'clock the previous night over 30 persons crowded in there, poor houseless creatures, to keep from freezing to death - - he keeps a great stove red.hot all night -some were young, some old, some evidently real respectable people - the orders are to not allow it, but he hadn't the heart to turn 'em out, - God help the homeless & moneyless this weather Walt[*1874*] [*1874 or '5*] 431 Stevens st cor West, Camden, N. Jersey Jan. 19. Monday noon Dear Loving Son, I rec'd your letter this forenoon. Pete I thought I would send you a little change enclosed - all I have by me to-day - (but I have plenty at my command) - It is wet & foggy to-day, and a glaze of ice every where - so I am compelled to remain in. I am feeling decidedly better the last 24 hours -- Am surely getting through the winter very well - guess I shall come out with the frogs & lilacs in the spring -- I keep a bully good heart, take it altogether - & you must too my darling boy. Walt1874[*Jan 23 74*] 431 Stevens st. Camden, cor West. [*Jan 23d 74*] N. Jersey Friday, 1 1/2 P.M.. Dear Boy Pete, [*74*] Your letter came Wednesday -- You must try to cultivate & keep up a gay & cheerful heart, & shed off botherations, & the impositions of employers, &c, as a duck sheds water in a rain storm -- tha'ts the best capital a fellow can have through his whole life, I find. I am only so-so - had a very bad night last night -it's a tough pull Pete - still I think I shall come out of it ----We are having it very mild here now - after snow & cold the first of the week -- too mild, like April to-day, cloudy & some rain. I keep myself some busy writing - have a piece in Harpers' Monthly just out (February) - shall have another in the March number -- Can't seem to do, without occupying my mind through the day - nights are worst for me - I cant rest well - has been so now for a month -- But I must not fill my letter with my complaints -- To-day is just a year, since I was paralyzed, (23d Jan. '73) -- What a year it has been to me ______ Good bye my loving boy - write me all the news & gossip. Walt[*1874*] [*1874 or '5*] 431 Stevens st. Cor West. Camden, N. Jersey Friday afternoon Jan 30, 2 o'clock Dear Pete, I am having another of my bad spells to-day - but it will pass over - I have had a pretty good time most of the week till last night - thought I was getting decidedly better -(I guess I am yet, & that this will pass over.) Every thing goes on the same with me here. As I write this I am sitting here alone as usual in the parlor by the heater - I have just been out, but it was so chilly & raw, I didn't venture off the block, but came back in 5 or 6 minutes - the air feels like snow. The trains of the Camden & Amboy are going by on the track about 50 or 60 rods from here, puffing & blowing - often train after train following each other - & locomotives singly, whisking & squealing, up the track & then down again --I often sit here & watch them long -- & think of you. I think I should try again to get out, evening - sometimes it makes me feel better, after I get out in the open air, & move around a little [*1974*] 7:15 evening Friday ----- --- I am writing this over in the Mercantile Library, 10th st. Phila. - I have felt better since 4 o'clock & have come out & crossed the river, & taken quite a ride up Market st. 2 miles here in the Market st. cars. The cars are very nice, old style, cushioned, fare 7 cents - if you get a transfer you have to pay extra-- The working hours are from 16 1/2 to 18 -- They have the new alarm punch - every fare or ticket, rings a little bell every time you punch - I suppose you have seen it -- they say it is quite a success & they are introducing them in other cities -- but it will get played out - -- Pete write about how you are getting along -& all about the folks, every one I know - - I am feeling as well as usual, as I finish this letter -- Good bye for this time my loving son -- Walt Dont you get discouraged at work - or on the road -- I feel that we shall yet be together, & have good times, just being with each other, no matter how poor[*1874*] 431 Stevens st. Camden, cor West. N. Jersey, [*1874*] Friday noon - Feb. 6. Dear boy Pete, Both your letters came this week - also one from my friend Eldridge, he too speaks of meeting & talking with you. - It is real winter here, the ground all covered with snow. as I look out - not the least thaw to-day, as it is cloudy -- --I rise pretty late mornings - had my breakfast a little while ago, mutton chop, coffee, nice brown bread & sweet butter, very nice - eat with very fair appetite - I enjoy my breakfast better than any other meal - (eat a light dinner pretty late, & no supper)- Feel generally about the same as before described - no worse, no better, (nothing to brag of any how)I have mentioned about my crossing the ferry - from our house, the cars run by the next corner, (200 feet or less) a half mile or so to the ferry - the Delaware here is full three quarters of a mile wide - it is a noble river, not so wide as the Potomac, nor with the fine banks like Arlington, but grander & with more style, & with powerful rushing tides, now great processions of broken ice, many little & some great big cakes - - the boats are very fine & strong, go crashing right ahead, with a loud noise, breaking the cakes often a foot thick & more - - I enjoy crossing these days - it does me good -- the ferry men are all very kind & respectful ____ - I have been reading a book "Merrie England in the Olden Time," a London book, with pictures, full of fun & humor - I have enjoyed it much - - There is an awful amount of want & suffering, from no work, herabout - a young man was here yesterday - had seen me in Wash -wanted help - I gave him a little - I see the cars & locomotive skurrying by as I close. Walt[*1874 or 5*] 431 Stevens st. Camden, Cor West. N. Jersey [*74 ?*] Feb. 13, 2 1/2 P. M. Dear Pete, Here I am yet, in my big chair in the parlor - I am up & around, but not very well - I am having a return, (though not so severe,) of those old blurs that used to trouble me -- have had a succession of them all day to day so far - begun yesterday - but I have no doubt they will pass over. It is cloudy & sulky here to-day, partially thawing- & is raining now - I have been out, managed to walk round the block, but had to return - did not feel well. Pete there is nothing new - I got your last letter - have rec'd letters from Mrs. O'Connor --I have no doubt I shall feel better - my sickness comes & goes - & my relief spells the same - - I shall probably have to stay in the rest of the day & evening- which is very dull & stupid for me -- in fact quite dismal -- But I must not write what will make you blue, - would rather cheer you up - I am still continuing the pieces in the Weekly Graphic -(will be ended with one or two more) - expect to have a piece in next Harper, (March) but am not certain - Just as I close, the carrier has tapped at the window - he brings me a letter from Boston, & in it a check paying a debt due me a long time, & which I had quite given up - which puts me in better spirits - good bye for present, my dear loving son - your Walt[*1874 or '5*] 431 Stevens st. Camden, cor. West, N. Jersey [*Feb 20 - 1874*] Friday afternoon - 2 1/2 Dear boy Pete, Well Pete, dear son, I have just had my dinner (stewed chicken & onions - good.) & here I sit again in the same old chair, in the parlor, writing my weekly screed to you - Nothing to brag of, this week - have passed a disagreeable week - mainly I suppose, from a bad, bad cold in the head - have suffered badly from it, every way - but keep up and around - & shall get through with it, when the time comes __ Have not written any for publication the past fortnight - have not felt at all like writing - My Weekly Graphic pieces are about concluded _(the next week's, the 6th number, ends them - I am just reading the last proof to-day,) - I have a poem in the March Harper -as I believe I mentioned in my last, (I am told that I have colored it with thoughts of myself- very likely) -- Pete, I recd your letter last Monday - & Herald -- - I have not sent you any papers or books lately - but will, again - As I sit here, concluding this, I am feeling quite comfortable. Take care of yourself my darling boy - Your old Walt, as always. Pete as I am a little in extra funds to-day, I enclose you $5 -thinking (like Mrs. Toodles' coffin) it "might perhaps come in use, somehow"[*1874 or 5*] 431 Stevens st. Camden, cor West. N. Jersey [*74 ?*] Feb. 27. Dear Son, Nothing very different or new with me - I have had rather a hard week, (continued from the former one,) - but still I dont get get flat - - am often thankful to be as well as I am - I rec'd your letter & paper -- - We too have had the same snow storm I see you have had in Washington - it is bright & sunny to-day here, though middling cool - I am sitting here in the parlor alone - it is about 10 - I have had my breakfast - I amusemyself by seeing the locomotives, & trains go by _ I see them very plainly out of the back window - they are onoly 7 or 800 feet off - - they go by constantly - often one right after another - I have got used to them & like them -- - Did you see my last pieces in the Weekly Graphic ? (the sixth paper, just out, is the last)- - I sent you a couple of Phil papers yesterday - I was glad you wrote me about Wash Peddrick -I have not heard from him in a long time -(he did me a good turn once in the office, just out of good will, & I shall never forget it)- - Pete write whoever you see, & about any thing in Washington - I met a young man here from Washington last night, Wm Colein, an engineer in the fire room Treasury - Love to Mrs. & Mr. Nash - & to Parker & Wash Milburn -& in short to all my friends __ Your old Walt U.S. POSTAGE THREE CENTS CAMDEN MAR 6 N.J. Pete Doyle, M street South bet 4 1/2 & 6th Washington D. C.March 6 (1874) 1015 O. St Carrier 7 MAR 8AM[*1874 or '5*] 431 Stevens st. Camden, N. Jersey Cor West. March 6. [*74 ?*] Dear boy Pete, I was quite shocked to learn of Parker Milburn's death - he was never very rugged, but he kept up so well, & always had some cheerful, lively thought or saying - I was far from anticipating this - I think he had very noble traits, & both you & I liked him thoroughly - Pete, I hope he is better off _____ - I will try to write a few words to Wash - -- Pete I have rec'd both your letters - I go out often in the Market st. cars past the West Philadelphia depot you speak of, but never get out or go in there, as it is a great depot, full of hurrying people, and hacks & drivers, & trains coming & going continually, & people rushing & crowding - too much excitement for me - So you saw Colein, in the Treasury - I saw him only a few minutes in a street car, but he could give you some report of me from his own eyes, & that I Know satisfied you better --- I am feeling quite an improvement, or let up, the last two days & nights on the bad spell I spoke of in my last letters - - have slept better the last two nights. To-day as I write here, it is cloudy, & feels a little like snow coming - it has been very mild here too - Pete, go up some time when you start out early in the afternoon & see Mrs. O'Connor, 1015 O street near 11th - she will be very glad to see you. I hope you won't fail to go. I am feeling quite comfortable to-day, as I write. Pete I sometimes think if I am fixed so that I had you with me every day, I should get well - good bye for this week, my loving son - from your old Walt431 Stevens st. Camden, cor West. N. Jersey [*March 12 1874*] [*1874 or 5*] Thursday, 5 1/2 p.m Dear boy Pete, I have been in all day - I don't think I ever knew such long continued gales of wind - This is now the fourth or fifth day - night & day - & as I write it is howling & whirling just as bad as ever - I haven't been out any to speak of for three days - the gales are too much for me. My spell of let up & feeling somewhat more comfortable continues, with some interruptions - night before last, for some time yesterday I was in a bad way again - but had a good nights' rest last night, & am comfortable to-day - I think I am decidedly more improving, [still] , than going behind hand ______ I have thought frequently of Parker Milburn - all his ways, & his good points, come up in my mind - & now the news comes of the sudden death of Mr. Sumner _ Your letter came Monday, & the HeraldFriday, March 13 - 12 M Not very well to-day - To add to my troubles, a very bad cold in the head all over me, again -this is the third attack this winter - but enough of grunting - The papers are filled with Sumner's death, funeral, life, &c. The cold, dry gale continues here, I got letters from Mrs. O'Connor. Don't fail to go up & make her a call, when convenient. You remember Arnold Johnson that used to live over on the hill by the Insane Asylum - well he has come back to Washington, is Chief Clerk again Light House Board, & Wm O'Connor had changed to a clerkship in the Library, Treasury. I a sitting here alone in the same old seat in the parlor writing Good bye for this time dear boy - Walt431 Stevens st. [*1874*] cor West. Camden N. Jersey [*March 26 1874*] Thursday afternoon 2 1/2 - I have just had my dinner - roast beef, lima beans, graham bread & sweet butter, with a cup of tea, & some stewed cranberries - eat quite a good dinner & enjoyed it all. I still consider myself getting along very well. O if this only holds out, & keeps on favorably, even if ever so moderate & slow - But I seem to have so many of these gleams that delude me into thinking I am on the way to recovery, but soon cloud over again, & let me back as bad as ever - But every time I feel pretty easy, I still keep thinking, now I am certainly going to get much better this time Pete your short letter came to-day, written on the cars Dear son, come whenever you can - As I said on my postal card, if you were here this week, you would find me more like my- self, (with the exception of walking) than I have been for fourteen months - whether it will continue or not, God only knows - but we will hope for the best. As I sit here writing to you, today it appears to me every way hopeful, & likely that we shall yet have good times. Every thing is quiet - rather lonesome. My little dog is stretched out on the rug at full length, snoozing. He hardly lets me go a step without being close at my heels__ - follows me in my slow walks , & stops or turns just as I do. We have had a most windy blustering March, but it is pleasanter & milder yesterday & to-day -(I saw the new moon over my right shoulder a week ago,- of course a sure sign of good luck)- - will finish the letter & send it to-morrow.Friday - March 27 - noon. Pleasant & bright weather - have been out on the side walk in front, once or twice with my shawl around me - walk slow & quite feeble - have some spells of bad head-ache - Went by the West Philadelphia depot yesterday afternoon, in the Market st. horse cars - saw plenty of RR men & conductors, about the place, lounging & waiting their time - Thought if I could only see you among them - As I sit here writing I can see the trains of the Camden & Amboy, in full view, some 40 or 50 rods off -- makes it quite lively - As I write I am feeling pretty comfortable, & am going out awhile after I finish this - but had a bad night last night. Hope this will find you all right -good bye for this time, dear son. Walt[*1873 or '4*] 431 Stevens st. Camden, cor West [*73 ?*] N. Jersey April 10. 12M Dear Pete, [*74*] Nothing very new or different in my condition, or any thing else - have hardly been doing as well since I last wrote, as before - but still hope to pull up. - Rec'd your letter last Monday, & the Herald. Not much of a letter this time, my loving boy - as I dont seem to be able to write much - Though, as I sit here I am not feeling any worse that usual. Ashton has lost his little child; died last Thursday. I have just rec'd two letters from Mrs. O'Connor. How does all go with you ? Pete, darling, shan't I send you a little money ? Walt[*1874*] 431 Stevens st. Camden, cor West. N. Jersey. April 16 - 1 p.m. Dear Son, I send you my letter a day ahead this week -- Nothing new with me - rec'd the letter of last Sunday - also the Capital and the Herald -- I had a day or two's visit very acceptable from John Burroughs last Saturday & Sunday - he has built a house on the Hudson river about 80 miles from N.Y. - has a little farm there, 9 or ten acres very nice - As I write I am feeling comfortable (but every day & every night seems to bring its bad spell, or several of them.) -- Somehow I still feel that I shall come round, & that we shall be together & have some good times again - but I don't know. Your WaltUnited States Postal Card Camden N. J. [MA? 2?] U.S POSTAGE ONE CENT WRITE THE ADDRESS ONLY ON THIS SIDE-THE MESSAGE ON THE OTHER To Peter Doyle M st. South. bet 4 1/2 & 6th Washington, D.C. 431 Stevens st. Camden, N. Jersey. May 29. Much the same with me since you left. Had an easier day yesterday - but down again to-day. W431 Stevens st. Camden. [*1874*] Cor West. N. Jersey. July 10. [*1875*] [*RMB.*] Dear, dear son, I am still here - still suffering pretty badly - have great distress in my head, & an almost steady pain in left side - but my worst troubles let up on me part of the time - the evenings are my best times - & somehow I still Keep up in spirit, & , (the same old story,) expect to get better. I have been discharged from my clerkship in the Solicitor's office, Treasury, by the new Solicitor, Mr. Wilson. - I think of laying up here in Camden. I have bought a cheap lot - & think of putting up a little two or three room house for myself. My darling son, you must not be unhappy about me - I hope & trust things may work so that we can yet be with each other, at least from time to time - & meanwhile we must adapt ourselves to circumstances. You keep on, & try to do right, & live the same square life you always have, & maintain as cheerful a heart as possible, -& as for the way things finally turn out, leave that to the Almighty - - Pete I shall want you or Mr. Eldridge to see to the sending on here of my boxes at Dr Whites. -- - I will write further about it - - I have not heard any thing from Eldridge, or Mrs. O'Connor, or any of the Washington folk for quite a long time Have you been up to see Mrs. O'C. Pete didn't you get my last Saturday's postal card ? I wrote you one, I got yours last Monday ____ - Did you get the Camden paper with my College piece in ? I sent one. - Very hot here yesterday & today. - I don't fret at all about being discharged - it is just as well - I wonder it didnt come before - How are your folks at home - your dear Mother & all - write about all, & about Mr. & Mrs. Nash, Wash Milburn, & the RR boys -- Your old Walt 431 Stevens st. Camden, Aug 28. [*74 ?*] [*1874 or '5*] Dear Pete Nothing very new with me - rather a mixed week - some suffering - Pete if you have a decided wish to go on the Pulman car, & are pretty clear that it would be a good move, I will let you have $100. Good bye for this time dear son - Your Walt[*1874*] Camden, Friday afternoon, [*Aug. 29 -74*] Dear Pete, I still remain about the same, & with nothing to write about in the way of my improvement, or any thing else -- but I thought you would want to have a word. Your letter of last Sunday Came all right. The paper has also come. I am no worse - & continue to live on hope - fortunately I have been stocked with a good plentiful share of it, It is pleasant weather here, though hot - we have frequent rains -- We have had one to-day, about an hour ago, but now it is very bright and pleasant - I am going to try to get out a little -- So good bye for this time, dear son - I hope to write more of a letter next time. Walt. 431 Stevens st. [*1874 or '5*] [*74 ?*] Cor West. Camden, N. J. Oct. 13. Dear Pete, I want some things taken out of my trunk, & put in a bundle & sent here by express. I have written to-day to Mr. Eldridge & sent him the Key. I have asked him to go into Milburn's between 3 1/2 and 4 this afternoon, & meet you - or if not convenient for you this afternoon, to-morrow, or next will do just as well, as I am in no hurry ------ - You both go up in my room & get them - - I want my old gray suit , coat vest &; (I think there are pair of pants) My old black overcoat that is laid away in the trunk Black felt hat - (the smallest lightest one) The old buck skin gloves I think some big sheets of very stout wrapping paper, & [some] plenty of stout cord will do - the directions must be very plain, & in two places _ If not convenient to go to day, go to-morrow afternoon, or next.I don't want the freight paid, as I will pay it on delivery here . I enclose a dollar as there may be some expense (some little fixings.) Pete, I rec'd your letter this morning, & it was very welcome as always. I rec'd the Sunday Herald too. I am having a good spell so far to-day (if it would only continue) - The bundle will come well enough, as it is a short straight route, if you only do it up so they wont get loose, & put on plain directions. Walt.[*1875 or 6*] 431 Stevens st. Camden cor West N. J. [*1873*] Dec. 26 - Noon. Dear boy Pete, I have been looking for you the last two days & nights - but I have about given you up now. I have been Kept in pretty close, as we have had real winter here snow & bad weather, & bad walking - I have been quite alone, as my brother & sister went off to Delaware on Wednesday on a Christmas visit, to return to-morrow, Saturday - I am about the same - My strength still keeps quite encouraging - I think is better than any time yet - my walking no better, & still a good deal of distress in the head - but, as I said in my letter of Monday last, (did you get it Tuesday ?) - I somehow feel a little more like my- self than any time since I was taken down --- Your last letter was quite a treat - so much about Washington, & folks, one thing & another -- As I write I sit here in the parlor - We have had an awful time from the fire going out in the heater, & making it up again - - there is so much complicated machinery about one of these heaters with all the late improvements - give me my old stove & wood fire yet - It is snowing by fits here this morning. Walt431 Stevens st. Camden, cor West. N. Jersey. Friday - 2 p. m. [*1875 or '6*] Dear Pete, Nothing special to write you, about myself, or any thing else, this week: your letter & the Herald came last Monday. The time goes very tedious with me - & yet I think I am getting better, (but don't know for sure.) - Still have frequent bad spells. - I stopt at the W. Philadelphia depot, Market street, two or three evenings ago, in the general passengers room, to rest, about 10 minutes. Then took the car for Market st. ferry, (a mile and a half, or three quarters) & over to Camden, home. - I get desperate at staying in, -not a human soul for cheer, or sociability or fun, this continued week after week & month after month _____ So you met Johnny Saunders, in Baltimore, & he is flourishing. If you see him again, tell him to write to me, - he is a young man I always loved. 1/2 past 2 - I have just had a nice oyster stew for my dinner -- it is blustering weather, partly clear, partly cloudy. & one or two little flirts of snow to-day. I send you a paper or two, but nothing in them . I will try to stop in Philadelphia & find that little dictionary I promised you ----- So long, my loving son, your old Walt[*1875*] Camden, 431 Stevens st N. Jersey. cor West April 30. noon Dearest Son, I saw the RR. smash the first thing in the paper in the morning, & run my eyes over the account with fear & trembling - & only on reading it over a second time was I satisfied that you were not in it - poor souls ! for I suppose every one that was in it, had some who heard or read the news with pain & terror - some parent, wife, friend, or child -- - poor Buchanan - but I hope, from accounts, that he will get up again, before long, without serious damage - The papers here publish full & I guess very good accounts of the whole affair - I liked what the Star said so plainly - that the cause below all others, of such accidents, is because they run such a route, over a single track - you may remember my warning on the same point three years ago, in a talk with youPete, this spring finds me pretty much in the same tedious & half-way condition I have been lingering in now over two years - up & around every day, look not much different, & eat pretty well - but not a day passes without some bad spells, sometimes very bad, - & never a real good nights' sleep - -- yet still I have a sort of feeling not to give it up yet - - keep real good spirits - don't get blue, even at my worst spells ---- I am sitting here today as usual alone in the front room, by the window - feel pretty comfortable - the weather is bright & pleasant here to-day, but cool for the season, & the most backward I have ever known -- My sister is going away for some 10 days to-morrow or next day, & I shall be quite alone in the house - wish you could come on & pay me a visit - Would you like to have me direct any letter or papers to the American Hotel, Balt, or shall I just direct to you at Wash, as usual ? _ love to my darling son -- WaltUnited States Postal Card Camden May 29 N. J. U.S. POSTAGE One Cent WRITE THE ADDRESS ONLY ON THIS SIDE-THE MESSAGE ON THE OTHER To Pete Doyle M street South, bet 4 1/2 & 6th Washington, D.C, 431 Stevens st. Camden, Cor West. N. Jersey. May 28 [*CARRIER MAY 29 [?]*] UP & around as usual - but a bad, bad time, head, &c -days & nights - a bad week - -papers &c. came all right - will try to send you better news next time W431 Stevens st. Camden cor West N. Jersey. Aug 6. [*1875*] Dear Pete, Dear, dear boy, Still here pulling through the summer (I think the winter is better for me) - The hot sunny days are worst for me, an extra bad strange feeling every day in the head, (the doctor thinks probably the result of an old sunstroke 20 years ago,- now the brain liable to it, again in its sensitive condition) - otherwise not much different - bad enough though. -I still go out a little - (most always feel at the best, for me, evenings, from sundown to 10.) papers &c came I still Keep a little at work - there is a printing office here, where I am doing my work - they are young men of the right stripe, & very kind & considerate & respectful to me - fix every thing in type, proof, &c. just to suit me - I am leisurely preparing [the] my new Volume, -- Mr. Marvin, an Internal Revenue Clerk, a friend of mine has stopt & paid me a visit on his return to Wash Plenty of rain here - hot but pleasant to-day - What has become of Tasistro ? - Pete you havn't made that call on Mrs. O'C. yet. Come when you can, my darling boy. Your loving old comrade & father Walt W 431 Stevens st. Camden, Cor West. N. Jersey, Aug 14, [*1874*] [*1875 or '6*] Dear Son, I am not feeling very bright to-day - hardly capable of writing a cheerful letter - & I dont want to send you a blue one - Will feel better by next time, Your Walt[*1874*] [*75*] Camden, Aug. 29. My dear son, Your letter came all right last Monday, & the papers. Send me the Herald to-morrow, (with [a] one blue stamp on) you needn't mind the other Sunday papers ---- I am still holding my own - gain a little strength, & am certainly improving though very slowly - both head & leg are bad enough, but general feeling is much better, most of the time -- I have sent Philadelphia papers once or twice & may again - there is nothing in them, but I thought you would know I was still around - The weather here is pleasant, & cool enough, favorable to me - I get out a little every day - am going out when I finish this - - Cannot write much to-day - am having a bad head ache all day - still I feel in good heart. So long Pete, dear boy, Walt[1874?] 1875?[*1875*] Camden, Nov 3. Dear boy, I have rec'd your letter, & enclose the $10 for you, I am still the same -am all alone in the house to-day, as my brother has gone to New York & my sister has gone somewhere visiting to spend the day. How I wish you were here to-day Walt.1875CROSS-REFERENCE GENERAL CORRESPONDENCE Doyle, Peter to WW, Nov 7, 1875. Partial See Verso GENERAL CORRESPONDENCE Einstein, Edwin, Nov. 26, 1875 (oversize) [*1875*] 431 Stevens st. Camden N. Jersey. cor West. Dec. 3 - noon Dear Pete, Dear son, I am getting over my late bad spell - I have been very sick indeed, the feeling of death & dizziness, my head swimming a great deal of the time - turning like a wheel - with much distress in left side, keeps me awake some nights all night - - the doctor says, however, these troubles, in his opinion, are from a very serious & obstinate liver affection - not from head, lungs, heart, - he still thinks there is nothing but what I will get the better of -(& we will trust he is a true prophet) -- I wrote about like the foregoing to Mrs. O'Connor, butwas too sick to repeat it to you -& that was one reason I asked you to go up there, - I hadnt been out for three weeks, but ventured out yesterday for an hour, & got along better than I expected - & shall go out or try to, to-day, as it is very pleasant -- You must not be needlesly alarmed my darling boy, for I still think I shall get, an any rate partially well & strong enough - The doctor is quite encouraging - comes every day - & I feel a good heart yet - My young fireman friend Alcott (I think I mentioned his sickness,) is dead & buried, poor fellow - I send you a bit of piece of mine about him from the paper - I have some spurts of visits, & company - but very little that goes to the right spot with me - my brother George has got a horse & light wagon & takes me out now & then I enjoy it much - but I have been too feeble lately - altogether pretty lonesome here, but might be much worse - Love to Mrs. & Mr. Nash, & to all inquiring friends Your old WaltCamden N J Dec 13 [*-(1876)*] Dearest Pete, I ought to have written to you before - but I believe lazy & listless fits grow stronger & frequenter on me as I get older - & then I dont do anything at all, especially just the things I ought to do -- But I often, often think of you boy, & let that make it up. I certainly am feeling better this winter - more strength to hold out,- walking or like, than for nearly now four years - bad enough yet, but still decidedly better -(My loving boy I underscore the words, for I know they will make you feel good, to hear)I heard about the accident on the road at the time two weeks ago - & was uneasy enough until I heard definite particulars -- - such things seem the fortune of RR travel, which I sometimes think more risky than the "fortune of war," which the Knowing ones know well is more chance & accident (I mean the victory in battles) than it is generalship --- - Pete I am sitting up here alone in my room 8 o'clock p m, writing this - I am feeling quite comfortable - I stood the cold snap of the last three days very well - to-day has been moderate & nice here - - nothing new or special in my affairs - I am selling a few of my books (the new 2 Vol. 10 dollar edition) from time to time, - mostly to English & Irish purchasers - it is quite funny how many of my books are sent for from Ireland - Love to you dearest son - Walt431 Stevens street Camden Dec 27 '76 Dear Son The money came all right, & I will Keep it for the present, & use it for myself, - but only to return it at some future time, when I am flush. Nothing very new with me. I still feel pretty well, for me, (& considering the past four years.) Who Knows ? May be after this winter, I shall feel well enough to come on to Washington & make out several weeks - & will have a good time together, my loving son, _ (no more long walks to be sure - but we can be happy other ways) -- Beautiful, mild, sunny, thawing afternoon to-day - I have been out a little - down to see a poor young man, an oysterman, Jim Davis, very low with consumption, took him some stew'd chicken for hisdinner - then went to a nice reading room & library we have here, very handy - then home to my own dinner stew'd chicken & nice roast potatoes - & now (2 1/2) up stairs in my room writing this, & feeling very fair -- O Pete, you get that arm chair (with the broken arm) I left at Mrs Nash's, - perhaps the broken arm is still there, if so get it put on - then take the chair home for you as a new years present, & for your mother to sit in, & you afterwards - you Know I used the chair for a year, & if I recollect right, it is a good strong one, though plain --- I am glad to hear what you wrote about your mother - Every thing about fellows' old mothers is interesting to me -- - Give my love to Mr & Mrs Nash - Your loving old WaltUS POSTAL CARD CAMDEN APR 22 N. J. U S POSTAGE ONE CENT WRITE THE ADDRESS ON THIS SIDE-THE MESSAGE ON THE OTHER Pete Doyle M Street South - bet 4 1/2 & 6th Washington DC Camden April 22 3 p m Am getting better - have had a bad time - shoulder grumbles a little now & then (rheumatism) but I feel much better - strength improving - -& expect to soon be about as before - thankful for that -- Nothing very new in affairs - I get along - Still think of coming to W. for a month or so W W 1929 north 22d street Philadelphia Wednesday June 20 [*- 1877*] Dear, dear boy Pete , I am stopping here now for a week or two in the house I believe I have mentioned to you before, & where I wanted you to come & see me -(& still want you, if you have a chance.) But I spend most of my time down at an old farm down in Jersey where I have a fine secluded wood & creek & springs, where I pass my time alone, & yet not lonesome at all (often think of you Pete & put my arm around you & hug you up close, & give you a good buss - often) -- -- I am still Keeping pretty well for me, have improved much indeed, quite fat, and all sun burnt brick red in the face, & hands as brown as nuts -- am pretty lame & paralyzed yet, but walk or rather hobble sometimes half a mile, & have no more (or hardly ever) of those bad prostrated gone -in , faint spells I used to have most every day -- so you see I am doing pretty well, my dear boy. I still make by brother's house at Camden my headquarters, & Keep my room there address my letters to Camden always __ But my sister is not well, has not been for some weeks, (is soon to lie confined) -- upon the whole am getting along pretty well, & good spiritsThe new edition of my books I sell enough of to pay my way very nicely - so I get along all right in that respect -(I don't need much) - how are they getting along at the Navy Yard? - I send them my love -( I haven't forgotten the pictures, but they are a long while a-coming) -- - When you see Mr Noyes tell him I should like to come on & pay him a visit this fall -- & now good bye for this time my own loving boy -- Your Old Walt [*1878 or 9*] 431 Stevens St Camden Sunday Sept 16 4:30 pm [*1877*] Dear Son I will write you a line or two any how -(it is so long since I have written any thing in an envelope) - Pete if you was to see me to-day you would almost think you saw your old Walt of six years ago - I am all fat & red & tanned - - have been down in the country most of the summer, returned the past week - - feel real comfortable for me -only I am still paralyzed left side. & have pretty bad stomach troubles still at times - but thankful to God to be as well & jolly as I am -I am all alone in the house to-day, & have had a good time - fine bright warm day - been out twice for short walks, (my little dog accompanying me) - rest of the time up here alone in my 3d story South room - done up & sent off my two books to a subscriber in England -- Eat my dinner alone, wished you could be with me then, & for a couple of hours, if no more -- Pete your papers all come regularly, & I am pleased to get them - About coming on I cannot say now, but I shall come, & before long - - Love to Mr and Mrs Nash -- Love to you my darling son, & here is a Kiss for you WW431 Stevens st. Camden. Cor West [*1877*] N. Jersey. Nov. 5, [*1877*] Dear Son, I think I shall try to come on to Wash. next Monday, in the noon train from here, W. Phil (limited Express) ------ Am feeling about the same --(bad enough at times - but sort o' getting used to it.) Walt As I understand it, the train I speak of goes in to your Depot, 6th st. - Must get in some time before dark ----CROSS-REFERENCE GENERAL CORRESPONDENCE Doyle,Peter from Whitman, Feb 26, n. d See Verso Speeches & Writings File Books Elliot, Charles N., WW as Man Poet and Friend , A.MSS.draft. Box86US Postal Card. 17 N. J. U.S.POSTAGE ONE CENT WRITE THE ADDRESS ON THIS SIDE-THE MESSAGE ON THE OTHER Pete Doyle M Street South - bet 4 1/2 & 6th Washington D C431 Stevens Street Camden New Jersey June 16 Have just got back here - All right - have been in (& around) New York ever since I saw you that night - have had a good time - I send you a paper - yours regularly rec'd - So long - W WUNITED STATES POSTAL CARD CAMDEN SEP 10 N. J. U.S.POSTAGE ONE CENT WRITE THE ADDRESS ONLY ON THIS SIDE-THE MESSAGE ON THE OTHER To Pete Doyle M st. South - bet 4 1/2 & 6th Washington, D.C.431 Stevens st. Camden Cor West. N. Jersey. Sept. 10. I am about as usual - your postal card came to-day - papers last Monday _______ - As I write (1 p. m.) am having one of my bad mid-day head spells- but shall probably get as usual toward sundown - Dry warm, dusty weather here days - fine nightsUS POSTAL CARD. CAMDEN OCT 6 N. J. [postmark] U.S.POSTAGE ONE CENT WRITE THE ADDRESS ON THIS SIDE-THE MESSAGE ON THE OTHER Pete Doyle M Street South - bet 4 th & 6th Washington D CCamden Oct 6 [*CARRIER 7 OCT 8AM*] All goes about as usual - Was real glad to see Mrs & Mr N and Mrs C --- love to them WW