Woodrow Wilson to Mary Allen Hulbert Peck

I did not write yesterday because I thought that you had sailed for New York on Saturday, as you expected to do when you last wrote; but your letter, received to–day, postpones your coming till the boat that sails on the 29th. Remember that you are to write to us the moment you land (or telegraph) and that you are to arrange to come to us just as soon thereafter as possible! Ever since I knew that Allen was home and accessible every spare bed–room in the house has been occupied by guests or relatives and it has been simply impossible to have him come down, unless I were to put him up at a hotel — which would not count, for it would give me no chance at him. But we shall manage it later. I am eager to get hold of him for a little while. The worst of it is, that there is scarcely ever a day, except Sunday, when I can be sure beforehand that a single quarter of an hour will be mine to dispose of as I will. But I must try and squeeze out a little for him! We shall see how things stand when you yourself get down. Ah! how jolly, how delightful that will be! And how my spirits have gone up with yours, at the news that the engagement is broken! You are a most efficient person! I wish I had you in my cabinet! Is there no way, I wonder, in which I can attach you to the service? It is delightful to think that you will soon be at hand, at least, and obtainable. My mental (spiritual) barometer goes up with a great leap when I think of it. Bermuda is a long way off, after all. It is much better — at any rate selfishly much better — to have one's friends — at least one's dear friends, who are indispensible, on the same mainland! We must manage it better hereafter. All join me in message of deep affection and in great happiness that we are to see you soon!