derstand, but perhaps you could
sell your old mahogany hat-box. Mrs. Chadwick always wanted it. I
never did care for those old things and I don't think you do. After
I get started in practice, I'll buy you a dozen hat-boxes. Won't it
be great when you can come down here and live with me?

"Your loving son,
"JASON."

"June 7, 1862.

"DEAR MOTHER:

"I have been quite sick with a sore hand--almost got gangrene from a
soldier. That's why you haven't been hearing from me. I received the
ten dollars. Thank you very much. I didn't think the old trap would
bring that much. Dr. Edwards said yesterday that I had a genius for
surgery. The ten dollars paid my board for six weeks, giving me a
chance to take some extra cases for the doctor. The war looks bad,
doesn't it? They need surgeons and though I'm doing something in
patching up these poor fellows and sending them back, I wonder often
if I oughtn't to go into a war hospital. Do you remember the little
cameo pin you used to wear till father thought it was too dressy for
you? If you haven't lost it, I wish you'd send it down here for me
to pawn. I can get it back after the war. I think of you often
though I don't write. Don't work too hard.

"Your loving son,
"JASON."

"Sept. 24, 1862.

"DEAR MOTHER:

"Could you possibly sell something to get five dollars to me by
return packet? Will write fully later.

"JASON."

But there was nothing more to sell.

"My dear boy," wrote Jason's mother, "I am heartbroken, for I know
how hard you are working, but truly, I have nothing left of the
least value. The cameo pin was the last. Am very much worried lest
you are sick. Do let me know. I am very well and the neighbors are
kind. Pilgrim is well, too, though the scar is there on his
shoulder. I'm sure he will always remember what you did for him. He
is all but human. _Please_ write me.

"A hug and kiss, from Mother."

Jason's fourth letter was urgent and prompt in reply.

"DEAR MOTHER:

"I am going into the army, moth