To George and Louisa Whitman

5.15-17. [1878]
1309 Fifth Avenue | New York June 15

Dear Brother & Sister
    I will just write you a line to let you know I am all right – I sent you a N Y paper the Sun of to-day with an acc’t of the funeral – I am feeling pretty well for me – am stopping with Mr Johnston and his wife & family – there is a big family & they have moved up here in 5th Avenue – very grand – a big four or five story house, near 86th St overlooking the Park, cool & fresh as can be – all are very kind, especially Mrs J. (the new one) – the children all call me Uncle Walt – the baby is bright & interesting, but not rugged – (I hardly think its tenure of life secure) – I have many invitations, but don’t accept them –
     I have seen John Burroughs & he wants me to go up there to Esopus, but I don’t think I shall go – I find my gray clothes very seasonable here, as it is cool enough all the time except at mid-day –I suppose Hattie and Jessie are there, all right – Dear girls, I send you my best love, & I will soon be home & see you – I will finish to-night –