Walking on the ice by the side of the river this very pleasant morning, I see many minnows (may be dace) from one and a half to four inches long which have come out, through holes or cracks a foot wide more or less, where the current has worn through . . .

  Each pleasant morning like this all creatures recommence life with new resolutions,—even these minnows, methinks.

  That snow which in the afternoons these days is thawing and dead—in which you slump—is now hard and crisp, supporting your weight, and has a myriad brilliant sparkles in the sunlight . . .

Dear Sir

  Enclosed please find note of my brother L.L. Smith for $100 payable in three months with my endorsement and acknowledge the receipt thereof to him

Yours truly
Chauncey Smith