Letter from Peter Force to his Uncle Manning Force

Washington DC
January 2, 1881

My dear Uncle,

It snowed yesterday and today although it is Sunday there are a great many persons on the hill with sleds. Tomorrow school will begin and I will be glad and I am going to try to do as well as I did before the holidays. I have not had any in conduct so far. Yesterday I made my first sled and ptu reindeer in large ink letters and tomorrow I expect to try it but as there is a knot in one of the runners. I guess it won't run very well. This year I am going to keep an account of teh money I get and spend at present I have received fifteen cents and have not spent any. I hope you are all well.

Your affectionate nephew

Peter E. Force

Letter added from Manning's niece, Cynthia

As Peter has written I will add that although very lonesome, we keep well. Mr. Mattingly called yesterday; we all saw him and he took the papers relating to the bonds, promising to attend to the transfer of them to the new trustee. The appraisers are to come Wednesday. He thinks everything is in good shape. I hope they will continue so. We are anxious to hear of your safe arrival and how Aunt Francie and the baby are doing.

Your loving niece,

Cynthia

Translation notes:

Peter Evans Force (1868-1930) is the son of Henry Clay Force, 1832-1874 and Katherine Ogie Frierson Force Martin. Peter was the 2nd child born to this marriage and the oldest son. Cynthia is the daughter of William Q Force, Manning's brother.