[Boston—Thursday, 14 December 1871]
Thursday. Xmas near, and the house in Lincoln St. to be dedicated two days after, fills my mind & hands—added to all comes poor Miss Thompson MD. from Chicago begging for her burned up hospital there.
Today called upon Mrs Hemenway in her beautiful house where Genl Armstrong and his wife & child are being made happy. The house was a picture of luxury and beauty, and the hostess extremely kind.
Jamie has lectured twice this week; tonight in Lexington for charity. Everybody rejoices who hears him. He in turn enjoys the work thoroughly. He says the vision of upturned faces cannot be got out of his mind for many hours after. The excitement is very great, but I am thankful to say he is well.