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Chicago Oct 5 1865
My dear Mrs. Orne
Your very kind & deeply sympathizing letter was received some days since & believe me, only the severe indisposition of my little Taddie & myself, has prevented an earlier reply. I cannot find words to thank you, for the tenderness of feeling, you manifest for us, in our most afflicted state - but from my knowledge of your gentle & loving nature, I could never have expected, any thing else. My heart, went out to you, the first time, I saw you, I felt, that I could love you, like a dear sister and in my distracted state of mind, when you came weeping, to my bedside if the choice, had been left to me,
would never have approved, of such entire seclusion. I cannot tell you how miserable I am. I am so rebellious, in my great sorrow, Do comfort me, a little by writing to me, your letters are very very interesting to me. With much love, I remain truly.
Mary Lincoln
I would have had, you remain near me. As it was, perhaps it was best - for in my great state of anguish & excitement, probably calmer & more philosophic temperaments, were the most appropriate persons to be near me; yet your nature & mine, are so far removed, from such natures, that in our natural moods, they are not congenial. Yet, how much more, we suffer in the hour of trial, than they do. Every one, was very kind to me. Yet, after all, there is no "ministering to the mind diseased," or the broken hearted. God, alone can give comfort, yet in my most afflicted state, a removal from my sorrows & reunion, with my beloved husband, can alone, heal the terrible grief, I am called upon to bear. Without my idolized husband, I care not to live - although I most truly
acknowledge, my gratitude for my good boys. Think, how desolate, I would be without them I feel assured, that your kind husband's & your own advice is best - as you say, Congress will soon meet, and if immediately, after the election of Speaker, this subject, an appropriation, for us, should be introduced, before agitating subjects are brought forward your good Congressmen, will agree with me , that under the circumstances, a bill, in our favor, will be passed. I am so anxious once more, to be quiet, in a home of my own, suitable to receive my husband's friends. Will you not visit me, should I ever be thus, situated? You would like Chicago - it would be just the place to suit you. My friends here, live very handsomely & are very kind & attentive - but I