[Boston—Tuesday, 12 February 1867]
Tuesday. Dr Hayes of Arctic fame came to Louisa’s Sunday evening. He wears a corrugated face and his slender spirited figure shows him the man for such resolves and expeditions. We were carried away like the hearers of an Arabian tale with his vivid pictures of Arctic life and were much interested in his tale of Christian Olrik a man of culture living at Discoe Island and passing his days there in solitude and snow. The picture of his pleasant parlor contrasted quaintly and weirdly enough with the Arctic winter outside.
Last night Jamie & I were at home alone together. It was really a novelty! We read Dr Hayes book.
This morning Anne Whitney came to see me. She sails soon for Europe where I believe and hope success awaits her.
Many thoughts of Forceythe Willson come to me. He seems to have vanished while we gazed. I wish we might have a letter to tell us something—a card or two more than this mere telegram.
