[Letter to Eugenia (Mrs. Fred S. Velsor) from her father. 1908.]

1908
160 Manhatten Ave NY

My dear Eugenia,
    Another day has drawn to a close, and before retiring what more fitting than to think and write to the loved ones at home? Your letter of the 7th came to hand safely.
You said "I think I overestimate my abilities." My oppinion is I have not given one half the credit you deserve. Shall I enumerate them? In the first place you are a first class cook - this I know by experience, for by my appetite made keen by the well cooked vivands and in this your partner will bear me witness, and exclaim Amen! In the second place a No 1 housekeeper with everything in order and no dirt discernable. In the 3rd place a modelmother who using the best of language are setting an example to my little darling, who is a bright ornament to your home, and whom I prophecy to become a star in the domestic social literary and musical circles and the fourth place an economist, who knows the full value of a dollar, and how make the best use of it for pleasure, charity, and home comforts, and in the fifth place a sweet singer, whose voice would make thousands bow in admiration had you the courage to face the multitude. As to an overestimation I have fallen far short of your true merits - Suffice to say your father understands them all - I am glad you liked my article - I mailed a copy to Roosevelt, and have two at the flat. If you have Zanors check as you wrote, mail it to me. I am sorry to hear that Frank Nichols has gone to drinking again. We all have plenty of bad habits but none more blighing than the curse of drink - In fact we all need to be constantly on our guard against the assault of the enemy, and need often to pray to God for strength to resist temptation - ask George if he wants me to send him a pen and a package of paper? I have written an acrostic today on his name, and will send him a letter soon, and tell him for me not to neglect his spiritual welfare, and go and hear the Word preached. Give my love to all and don't forget to remember me to my little darling Leila.
    Love to all, and before I close a sixth place your very clear and splendid penmanship.

From Father

[Envelope]
Mrs. Fred S. Velsor
Oyster bay L.I.