Mary (or Polly) Nickle (1820-1887)

Letter, 24 December 1856

Images and Transcriptions Courtesy of Dave Nickle

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nicklesville, Dec.26th/56.

Dear Cousin,

By the late mail I received a letter from Uncle David Auld, in which I was informed of your being in New Wilmington, and of your talking of visiting us, and requesting me to write to you telling you of the road, &c. I can not give you any specific directions about the road, but would refer you to some persons there, to whom, I think, you can easily have access. Are you acquainted with Messrs Wm Francis, Alexr Moore, or Dr. Poppino? Either of these gentlemen, or their ladies, can tell you all about the road to Esq. Junkin's, which is only 5 minutes from our place. Aunt said you intended coming about Christmas; it is too late for that now, but I can assure you, your visit would be welcome at any time. I have often thought how much I should like to see Uncle David and Aunt Sarah, or any of you. I have never seen many of my friends.

I presume you are experiencing the evils and pleasures of scientific study. I know not what profession you have in view, but I hope you will choose one that will be profitable to your spiritual interests. The accumulation of wealth should be a secondary object at least, with you.

My dear friend, (for thus, I trust, I will permit me to address you, although a stranger?) allow me to press upon your mind the claims of the gospel ministry. This is a profession worthy of your highest ambition! You have, I understand a brother engaged in this good work. O' I hope he makes the glory of God and the good of immortal souls his chief object! I know not to address you as a Christian or not - know not whether you have been led by the grace of God to receive Christ as your portion. If you have, you will doubtless think of these things - if not, still allow me to urge the subject upon your attention. Your creator has claims upon you as a rational and intelligent creature. He claims your heart and your services. But I forbear, I have almost forgotten, that I was writing to an entire sranger. Forgive my earnestness, on a subject of so much importance.

I hope we shall have the pleasure of seeing you here soon. I am living in the family of my brother William - going out to sew, when work can be obtained. I am extremely near sighted, and have my right with cripples for the last six years. But though Providence has deprived me of many earthly comforts, yet I am comparitively happy. I am surrounded by kind friends wherever I go, and have an onward hope, that when earth's scenes are past, I shall enter those happy regions where I shall no more complain of bodily infirmity, but shall join with saints and angels in eternal praise to Him who "doeth all things well!"

I have written more than I intended. If you cannot come soon, write and direct to Kossuth, Clarion County, Pa.

Wishing you all success in your studies, I remain your affectionate cousin

Mary Nickle

P S. If you cannot get directions about the road, let me know, and I will inquire of Esq Junkin. Do not forget to write at any rate .

A merry christmas and happy new year

Mary

Mr. J. Brownlee.