Archibald Moore - 1862-11-13

St. Charles, Sept. 29th

Dear Henry
                    Your last letter came duly to hand, we were glad to hear that you were well, and I was pleased to hear that so far you had no difficulties at School, -- I hope you will continue your efforts to give Prof. Waterhouse satisfaction.  Your Father heard to day that your school was of no account, that the boys that went there never learned anything. -- I know that Oscar can contradict this and hope that you will soon be able to do the same.
                    Mr. Watson preached to us last Sunday -- we had the pleasure of his company longer than we expected, -- he came down on Friday evening, to attend the funeral of Miss Nevil Christy who died last thursday of consumption, she was very young to die, being near your own age, but her friends have great comfort in her death for they have good reasons for supposing that she died a Christian---
                    Mr Dines was released from prison one day last week -- he returned to St. Charles on wednesday evening, and early next morning Theodoric McDearmon called on Mr. Dines with an order for him to leave the town on the first train -- he left that afternoon for St. Louis county.  We have not heard from him, and do not know whether he will be allowed to come back or not.
                    If the weather is good and nothing happens to prevent us your Father and I intend to make you all a visit on next Saturday, and take all the children with us, -- that is if your Aunt and Uncle do not object to having their house overrun by such a troop -- I hope that you will be able to get through with your lessons on friday, for I do not want our visit to interfere with your studies -- I asked your Father if he had any word to send to you -- he says tell him to study hard.
                    You did not say anything about Charley's Mary and little girl -- I hope they are doing well, and that Master Louis will be well by the time Eugene reaches the City.-- I think you must have behaved your self tolerably well as I have heard no complaints from your good cousin Mary, give my love to her and tell her that I shall always be obliged to her for the trouble and care she has with you.
                    With much love to you, and all the rest.

Your own Mother
H. Gauss