July 30, 1848

I cannot paint to you how anxious I am to make money sufficient to pay up my debts and enable me to settle down and remain for the rest of my days, in the bosom of my young and cherished family. This is the grand end and object of all my plans. I feel as thought I am losing the very blossom and flower of my happiness in thus absenting myself from all that I hold most dear to me on earth."

August 2, 1848

I am not well tonight, but I am much sadder than I am sick, so sad indeed, that laying aside all prudential considerations with regard to your business, I implore that if Mr. Nelson [Eads' business partner] has returned and you can possibly leave, you will come up without delay. [Another acquaintance has died in childbirth, and still another was] confined last night & lost her child and was not expected to live herself. [She knows how James would reproach himself if he weren't there & she died.]

September 1, 1848

Of what weight are the profits of business, when placed in the balance with the tender feelings of the heart or those soothing comforts our presence would bring when life is endangered…

[In Cairo he receives word that his wife has given birth to a son.] My own dearest best beloved. A boy! I am almost beside myself. Oh! How happy am I now! A boy and my adored wife out of all danger. Ask me anything and you shall have it granted almost before the request is made. If possible, I love you twice as much as ever …