Harrisburg Pa. Dec 30th 18617

My Dear Catharine

Yesterday was a very long day to me indeed as it usually is when away from home. I have thought much of you and the children. I have so much pain about my breast that I fear my heart is affected. A friend of mine Judge McClure[?] of Pittsburgh just about such a shaped[?] man[?] as me fell dead last week of heart disease. I am very anxious that you and the children should learn to manage the farm. So that you could if I should be called away suddenly work to gether and make a living. I hope you will write to me tell me how you are getting along how thick the ice is and whether the boys have got to filling the Ice house yet. They not have more hands than be kept at work. I think the other teams might haul if they bring the ice from the creek.

The Gov is still absent should he get home tonight or tomorrow I will perhaps come home tomorrow night.

Affectionately Yours

Eli Slifer