And oh my word! The contents of the letter! How funny and such a great historical peek at life back then! We now know that "painter's colic" was from the lead used in making the paint! And the Republican comment and closing sarcasm are so funny! A wonderful example of how times have not changed much! Such a treasure!!!
Thank you for clarifying that it is Spencerian handwriting. I wondered about "painter's colic"; thank you for that insight. I thought the Republican/Democrat sarcasm was hilarious. They did eventually get married, so I guess they worked out their differences. My parents have several letters written by this same man. They also have letters from someone referring to working on the Panama canal. Maybe I can post a copy of one of those when I visit next time.
And, I grew up in NH as well. Most of my family lives in New England. I prefer the warmer southern climate, but it's always nice to go back and visit.