Poughkeepsie April 26th 1866. Revd. E.J. Goodspeed My dear Sir I received your kind letter (with enclosure) I thank you for it. I often think of you, and would occa- sionaly write, but my efforts in that regard are somewhat impared by reason of failure in vision & by a slight attack of paralysis last January, but through the mercy of God was not suceed by a second, and am spared to see the long cherish^ object of my late years the College completed & working satisfactory &c-----On Monday ensuing I have this moment learnt (indirectly) that the Officers & Pupils are preparing to celebrate my Birthday (now going in my 75th year) by some kind of public demonstration what, or how, I do not know; which may be all verry well so far as memoralising the College, but for myself to I do not desire it, but wait a little and let time prove the work of our hands--- I ride out to the Institution almost every pleasent day-----I suppose you have learnt from the Religious Journals that the C.BCC. has call** a new Pastor - A-----M Lanson late of New Jersy - thus far he is much liked and the church blessed with increased hearers of the Word, and a number of new converts added to it. Doct. Babcock continues to officiate in the old Millstreet house, congregation & communicants continue about as usual, what has been 296 u4- Apr. 26, 1866 ~ 2 gained by new additions has been ballanced by removals & other changes----- church I hear of the Towering interest of Dr Everts in your City, it certainly was or is a great success, I pray the Lord to continue to bless it &c. My family consist j6$h/of Miss Germand (who has been with me some 5 years) and myself, 2 colored Servants, &' Color Coachman----- Speaking of Revd Mr Lanson I have not heard him yet, nor have I been to church since Januay-----my hearing is deficient - but I must close, as I am subject to dizziness after writing a few minutes----- Best regards to your dear Wife - Miss G. unites xxx her best regards-----I remain Yours truly &c &c M. Vassar. P.S. Our young Ladies at College are continualy sending for my Auto- graph & Photograph, so I attach them thus in thier Albums----- M. Vassar 297 ' A-'