December 1871
Abbie B., age 22, Kansas
December 4, 1871
Once more at Red Oak Shelter. How pleasant and comfortable to be here. The children have grown, and are full of fun. Little O comes to me and says “you may have a kiss.” Dear child. Katura cheerful and lively, and such a good cook.
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Abbie B., age 22, Kansas
December 20, 1871
The days slip past so fast. Philip came last week. He will soon grow stronger here, and to me, such a relief to know he is here. What a varied fifteen months it has been for me. Thanks be to Providence no calamity befel me.
Tomorrow brother H takes me to W and I will be home in time for Christmas.
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Abbie B., age 22, Kansas
December 28, 1871
Christmas is past, and a very quiet day it was. I spent it at my brothers. Did not receive any present, except a letter from [Luania] Sheridin with a good picture of herself.
They were afraid to let me come up, it was so cold, but I was so anxious for the mail. Mrs B – gave me a pair of drawers made out of a blanket – and they kept me warm. There was no school Monday, and that day I visited at Van Reeds. Mr. V – is a cousin of Mothers. Then rode down here in p.m. I came by way of Free Hall, when I turned the corner, a team came up behind me to pass, but Kit would not let them, she started to run and run she did some three miles, with the team close behind her. A little way from Butlers, the team turned off and Kit slacked up. That was the fastest ride I ever took. They say Kit never lets a team pass her.
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