Brownson has had a difficulty with his old enemy and was thoroughly beaten. This is his excuse for not having written Henry sooner and offered his congratulations. He hopes that God may bless both Henry and his wife with the riches of His grace and that Our Lady may always be a near and loving protector. Brownson new has four daughters and believes that the youngest will be his pet. He is sorry not to have been at the wedding but could not risk so long a journey in winter especially since he had the gout. He had an attack while in Boston which detained him there some days but finally he slowly began to recover after being home for some time. Brownson explains this to Henry so the latter will not attribute Brownson's absence from the wedding to laziness or indifference. Henry and his bride should be economical whether they are rich or poor, and guard against expecting too much of each other as well as looking upon each other as perfect. Certain infirmities cling to us in this world and we must not break our hearts if we find this out. Trials and crosses will come but they must be borne with love and courage and above all with mutual confidence. It is a great comfort to Brownson to know that both of them are good Catholics who kneel at the same altar and hope for the same heaven. He asks them to take his advice, which he trusts can hardly over be needed. It is to be hoped that Fifine's eyes improve so that she may write Brownson one of her charming letters. His own eyes are not too well but he expects them to be better in a day or two. Henry is expected to remain at Fort Wayne, or at least move not further than Fort Gratiot, so that Brownson may visit him in the spring. Henry is asked how he likes his new commander. Congress will not diminish the army but it may refuse to continue the extra pay. :: III-3-a A.L.S. 3pp. 12mo.