My dear Brother,
Caroline is again very ill of
inflammation of the membrous covering of the
lungs, – the same disease that Augustus had
5 years ago, & the same that attacked him when
you were here with your family. She seemed
nearly or quite well, until Thursday evening
last, when fever and other symptoms of the
disease came on and have continued, with
little abatement. This P.M. there was a par-
tial perspiration which gave some relief
but it did not continue long. She says
however, that the cough does not hurt her
as it did yesterday. I am greatly alarmed,
and depressed. I am sure I cannot live long
if this dear child is taken from me. There
might be some hope, but Francis has the
measles, and if Caroline should survive, she
must have her turn, and how can she get
through it! It is impossible. I am the most
wretched of all men. Confined to my
house, and overcome with affliction, I can
attend to no business from home, and all
is getting into utter confusion. Do not let
this trouble you, only to think of me, for
you have cares enough of your own to kill you.

[left Margin] I cannot account for Caroline's sickness. She has not been in the least exposed.

Francis is doing well apparently. He is
always very patient in the sickness, takes all
that is offered him and gets well soon.
Your letter of the 17^th, came last night.
I cannot thank you enough for its kind
sympathizing spirit. Heaven grant you
opportunity to come and see me. It will
be a visit of mercy indeed.
Give my love to Frances & remember me very
kindly to Mrs Worden.
My hand is so disabled that I can
scarcely hold my pen.
Affectionately & truly
Your brother
M.D.C
Sunday night
Mar 24^th 1839.
hDr Canfield 1839