Branch Colby letter to Celestia Colby 29 May 1892

ST. LOUIS DUPLICATE-WHIST CO. 2322 ALBION PLACE. Lock Box, 365.

St. Louis, Mo. May 29 1892 4 P. M.

My dear mother,

I fear I am getting to be, or have already become, a poor and slack letter writer. Have just this minute got though working in the cellar, where I have been since dinner. Have tackled the book case again.

Yesterday afternoon I drove everyone through Forest Park in my wagon. Everyone had a good time especially Dorothy and Vine. They enjoyed the animals and this morning Dorothy wanted a buffalo to ride.

Coming home we sought shelter in a shed from a very severe thunderstorm which lasted more than an hour.

By rolling down the curtains I got them all home with dry clothes but it was after six o'clock and I had to go back with the horse and down town to the express office so I did as M. said

and went to the chess club for this evening where I downed Major Wright Got home at ten o'clock and went to bed. Didn't know of your letter until after dinner to day. Saw Mrs Durant at church and she told me of seeing you. Mollie is to be at the sea shore all summer as private tutor and chaperone to Edith Ferry.

Mrs. Bary is feeling better than when she came. Minnie is not a bit well. I think Rose's proof good, will expect a photo when they are done. My boy had an artist come out in the park the other morning and take the party horse and all. I ordered two pictures thinking you might like one They will be done soon. We have ordered a little reminder for Rose's birthday which ought to reach her on time. I inclose this time the letters I forgot last time. I have not

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given the New York house an answer yet. I wrote the Cincinnati house and and offered them the agency at a royalty of 12 1/2 cts a set and will hear from them in a day or two. Think I prefer to deal with them if they will take it as they are rated at over a million while the New York house is only rated at from $ 5000.00 to $10,000.00. If the Cincinnati house does not take it I shall let the other firm have it under certain provisions which I wish to make. Prof. Woodward is going to take a set with him to England this summer. I am going to try and have him dispose of the English patent or put it on royalty. It is not allowed yet but expect it all the time. The Canadian patent is issued. Everything looks encouraging about the whist. I am all alone in the house now, the folks have gone to call

upon Mrs. Wheeler and for a walk.

We are to have Prof. Woodward and wife here to supper some night this week, don't know what one.

I am working in Forest Park yet, when the rain lets me, and will be all this week and perhaps longer.

It is a lovely spot and never prettier than now. What a time you are having with your cellar. I am unable to suggest a remedy unless a drain would do it. Wish you could see the little ones as they started off for their walk, each one with a doll under her arm. Both are well I send much love to both of you.

Affectionately Branch.