own roof a
contentment that has left me without envy of those whose
more fortunate feet have sought the seashore and the
mountain slopes. You yourself, however, acted wisely and
well in going away, since the world is still pressing to
_your_ lips the sparkling cups, which for my own are now but
a dim, receding memory.

I congratulate you on Miss Rose's approaching marriage which
you have been so good as to announce, and sincerely hope
that all the bright visions which the coming event must be
awakening will have an abounding fulfilment. The invitation
with which you have honored me is accepted with thanks, and
I shall attend the ceremony with the higher gratification,
realizing as I shall how closely your own happiness is bound
up with that of your daughter.[3]

Faithfully and gratefully your friend,

J. HOLT.

* * * * *

WASHINGTON, Nov. 3d, 1888.

My dear Mrs. Gouverneur:

I am in receipt of your very welcome letter of the 1st
instant and hasten to send the "Index" as requested. Hope it
may be of service in illustrating and supporting your
application. I shall preserve the Admiral's [Rear Admiral
Francis A. Roe, U.S.N.] emphatic words as a cherished
testimonial. The language of Mrs. Stanard is also very
grateful to me. Her favorable opinion is the more prized and
precious because she has known me so long and so well.

And now, my dear good friend, how can I sufficiently thank
you for your generous interest in this trouble of
mine--which has been a thorn in my life for so many
years--and for your surpassingly kind offices which have
been so effectively exercised in connection with it? Be
assured that while my poor words cannot adequately express
it, my heart will always throb with gratitude for the tokens
of good will with which you have so honored and gladdened
me.

I feel much complimented by so early a receipt of the
invitation to Miss Rose's wedding, and I shall have great
joy in being present.

* * * * *

Faithfully yours,

J. HOLT.

* * * * *

WASHINGTON, D.C., January 21st, 1891.

Dear Mrs. Gouverneur:

I regret to be obliged to acknowledge the receipt of