Ellen Axson Wilson to Woodrow Wilson

Here we are safe and sound after a pleasant journey and a good nights rest. We had a delightful surprise in New York, Ed and Florence met us in Jersey City! They had been out to see Agnes two days before and learned our plans from her. So of course he piloted us across town, (and we did not need a cab.) and we had a nice hour together. They start south today on the Savannah steamer, – will have a few hours there with such of the family as are at home and a day or two in Atlanta. And just think! Ed solved the problem Edison put him at in the two weeks he was there! In fact he did it in one week, for he had to wait a week for certain chemicals. Two or three other men had worked at it for two or three years. Isn't that fine! Still Ed doesn't think there is much “in it” at Edisons, and is going back to Mannie. He can always have Edisons to fall back upon if the changes in the management at Mannie should make him wish to leave. It seems to me more than ever, a pity that he isn't engaged in higher scientific work.

Mr. Tedcastle met us a the station and we made the 6.03 train without our trunks. Mr. T. has the checks and will send them over today but we can't get them till he comes back tonight. Rather inconvenient! eh? They have breakfast at half past seven on Mr. T's account & it is insisted that I have mine in bed so as to have a good rest. I did not get up till nine! Dear little Helen was here, but left with Mr. T. at eight for Bar Harbour

The place is all that it has been represented for beauty and the air is delicious. The house is pretty and dainty – and well kept and I am sure it will do you good in your turn to be here.

By the way, Salem is only two or three miles away & we are going there, and also to Boston antique stores in search of a handsome side-board; so suppose you don't finally decide that question till you hear the result: we go to one of the places on Monday. And suppose you look at “Bowles” on 4th Ave. when you go in.

I am of course in a hurry to get this first letter off, so no more now. It is better not to tell you, darling, how much I want you, or how hard I am fighting home-sickness.

I love you, dear Woodrow, beyond all words and am always and altogether
Your own
Eileen