Transcription
Saratoga Springs July 17th. 1852
My dear Kate,
We had a glorious hurry scurry drive along the rail road: left Steam boats behind as if they had been at anchor A flight of wild pigeons tried to keep up with us, but gave up in despair. We arrived here between eleven and twelve. The weather was pleasant, and there was but little dust. We all enjoyed the journey excepting Julia Grinnell, who having fatigued herself the day before by packing–and the night before by not sleeping–had to keep her room on ar[r]iving with a severe headache–She is her self again, however, this morning.
I have found some old friends here–Mr & Mrs Kennedy of Baltimore–Mr Stevens–presdt of the Bank of Commerce, and his family–Our neighbor Mr Bartlett; but
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without his pleasant little wife–who remains at home castle building–by the bye they do not expect to get into their castle before October–if then.
We were all at a little Hop, as they call it, last evening, in one of the Saloons of the Hotel. It was not very brilliant, but gratified the small folks; who however could not summon up resolution to dance. At least little Julie could not–and Fan could not dance unless she did, of course.
The Springs appear to be quiet and sociable without any attempt at dashing and flashing–and therefore suit me better than they would at a gayer season. I should like very well to pass some days
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here and take the waters; but we have marching orders for 11 Oclock for Lake George. I find it so easy to get here and in such brief [them] ↑time↓ that I shall be apt to pay the Springs another visit. I have no idea of remaining mew’d up at home until I grow to be an old fogy. Tell Mary there are a number of most beautiful young ladies here–one of whom has paid me some small attentions; but I have no given her much encouragement.
One must not let oneself be too easily won. Farewell my dear Kate. Give my love to all the household–and do not let any one see this letter.
Your affectionate Uncle
Washington Irving
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P S. I forgot to tell you that Mr Kennedy [S] asked after you all particularly about the little lady who carrys the Key’s–which I presume is Sarah
Mrs Kennedy is almost as handsome as ever–which is a great blessing
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Marisa CalderioLanguage
EnglishNotes
Washington Irving. Letters. Volume IV, 1846-1859. Aderman, Ralph M., Kleinfield, Herbert L. and Jenifer S. Banks. Boston: Twayne Publishers, 1982, pp. 318-319.
