Handwritten letter from Dr. George R. Starkey in Washington, D.C. to his wife, Caira Skelton Starkey. Starkey has received Caira’s letter- it was “enjoyed, & accepted as a kind of reproof for my neglect of our anniversary.” He confesses to “some sadness & depression” regarding how far he feels from his ideal spiritual life, particularly in conjugial matters. Looking back, he reflects, “with thee, I can see where we could have helped each other more—indeed much more,- yet it is by means certain that we should do better by retravelling the journey.” He supposes it is impossible for anyone making spiritual progress to be satisfied in retrospect, and instead they should give thanks to the Lord and do better in the future. He is glad the little ones are happy with their school, but he is out of patience for the absurd folly of the teacher’s method. He advises that Ned be gently urged back to his private school- the priority with all the children is their health. He is sorry Mrs. P. is having trouble getting her boat launched and tells her to keep heart as the breakers will soon pass. He encloses his last $5 and will send more soon as he hopes to save Caira from asking for credit. Starkey took Nelly’s class in Sunday school this morning and listened to Mr. Fox preach an exceptionally good sermon on the incarnation. He thinks Gertrude should begin taking music lessons as soon as she feels ready. He wonders how Caira felt reading over the old love letters, and he asks how they are finding church services and if they have made any acquaintances. Names mentioned: Ned (Edward Starkey), George (George G. Starkey), Mrs. P., Gertrude (Gertrude Starkey Pitcairn), Nelly, Mr. Fox, the Dr. (Dr. Hatch?), Aunt Sarah, Paul