Irene Wylie Bell, Bloomington, Ind. to Andrew Wylie, Jr.

              Red is starting for town and I have written hurriedly that he might carry the letter. Remember us affectionately to the family. Let us hear from you or Carry soon. Your affectionate, Sister Irene [end of letter at the top of the image, then start of the message] Beach farm, Oct 11th [1868], Dear Andrew, Your letter of the 27th containing the gratifying intelligence of the birth of the babe was duly received. We thought to have written at once a congratulatory reply, but deferred from day to day, hoping to write you of Anderson's arrival. We felt some anxiety in regard to the event, from the tenor of Carry's last letter, and we were happy to learn of the safe arrival of the little stranger. May he prove a blessing, a well spring of pleasure in your household. We feel somewhat inclined to demure at your selection