Box 2

Jacob has been pressed to join a secret society, and has joined the Peithessophian Society without first seeking his father's consent, as it will probably be of real service to him. His eyes continue weak.

(The ink in this letter has faded, which makes the letter difficult to read.)

He has only 9 pence remaining of his 3 dollars, after buying textbooks, snuffers and blacken. Henry Wychoff [Wyckoff, 1828; died 1829] has returned, has entered the Seminary, and is very much engaged in preparing to preach to all nations. Another student, [Simon V. E.] Westfall [1831, died 1856] has suffered from a fever called "the remitting verging towards the billious."

Because of a snowstorm, "nothing is heard save the tingling of the bells the loud roar of laughter and the savage shouts." A professor is lecturing four nights a week (40 lectures) on geology, mineralogy and chemistry.

Jacob has injured his foot, and missed four days of classes. His eyes have not been well, which he attributes to dust.

As soon as his bruised toe recovered, he took a heavy cold, which caused him to miss two days of lectures.

A Mr. Manly's shop and two-story home have burned, interrupting attendance of worship on the Sabbath for inhabitants of the city. Jacob's eyes are considerably better. The societies have been very well attended recent nights.

Dr. Ogden died unexpectedly on Wednesday afternoon, after a week of illness in his breast. He could not consider, when asked, if he had made his peace with God, the time of sickness being no time for reflection.

Uncle Henry was down, but brought no letters from home. Jacob is eager to hear how the early corn stood the cold weather.

The Seniors have completed their examinations and received their grades. Robert Ormiston Currie has received the first honours; Garret I. Garretson and John Forsyth the second.

Preparing for examinations. To read the history of England while awaiting commencement. Young potatoes selling for $2 per bushel; green beans and peas in the shell for $1; "great encouragement to gardeners and farmers." "Religion seems to be very dull in this place. I don't think that there is any one of the students who intend to join the church.