My dearest friend
It is with the greatest sorrow and sympathy that I write to you over the loos of your beloved one. While it greaves us and we mourn over our dear ones we must remmeber that it is the will of our heavenly father and that we too will soon be called a way from this troublesome world for oh Sarah what is there here but trouble and worry. So dear Sarah while your bereavement is grat think of your children a round you to cheer and comfort you. I have just wrote Dode a letter so I thought I would write you a few lines. I wrote you a big long letter. Did you get it. (illegible) told me you sent her one of your pictures. Will you send me one for I would like to see your dear old face once more. How is Homer and Dassie and Osker, Bert, Murtle, and Hattie. How well we would like to see you all. Well Sarah I will close for this time. Hopeing to here from you soon. I remain as ever your friend.
Hattie Allen
Frank sends his love to all
NOTES: Envelope postmarked: Apr 8, 1902, Gales Creek, Oregon
Apr 8, 1902, Forest Grove, Oregon
Apr 9, 1902, Medford, Oregon
Hattie & Frank Allen were friends of the Smith family, according to a fellow researcher. Thanks for the important clarification, Darlene!
Hattie is referring to Sarah's children and their spouses when she asks about:
Homer (William Homer Smith)
Dassie (Daisy Mary Shattuck Smith)
Osker (Oscar Arther Smith)
Bert (Albert Smith)
Murtle (Myrtle Zula Smith)
