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much. Had indeed to take back that amount
of work which had been assigned to me, as not even
working myself into a brain fever could have comple-
ted it by the time required. Everything but
work has gone to the wall. Even Hannah�s dear
letter remained unanswered for three weeks. Yet
I never loved her better or to more practical
purpose. I was putting my affection into endeavor,
as I well know. A week ago I wrote to her.
/
October 26. Another gap, and for the
same reason. Here�s to secure some Items,
many having drifted past, irrecoverably.
I have kept to my work steadily. Sometimes
it proves rather exhaustive, sometimes I exult in
and enjoy it. A rush down town, or a half-
evening�s loafing is a great holiday. I have contri-
ved to score up arrears of letters, to put aside
some $50 in bank, to indulge in sundry com-
fort-luxuries in the way of dress, to systemize
labor &c. Only Phonography and Diary has
gone to the wall, the which I regret. But
after a heavy day�s work, sometimes running into
midnight, I can�t attempt either. So much
individually. Now for others. Let me go back
awhile.
Some days, perhaps less, perhaps more than
a week after I dropped daily diarizing I got