Mr. Waller to Mrs. Waller.
My Dear Wife: Now that Tamatave is under military law and no one is allowed to leave here for the capital, and all communication by post having been cut off, I can not therefore tell when we shall meet again or when you will hear from me; but I certainly hope that our separation will be brief, and that no harm will befall my loved ones. I am still at Mr. Dublin’s, and am waiting anxiously to hear from you regarding the money which was to be sent in time to meet judgment against me here.
[Page 383]It was unfortunate for us that all communication was cut off on the very day that you promised to wire me.
Be sure and send the money, if you have not already done so, as soon as you receive this letter.
Send it in missionary bills if possible, and if these can not be had pay the money to Mr. Paolette or Porter and send order for same to me in care of John Dublin. Mr. Porter will instruct you how to send the letter, as he will probably have a courier running to Vatomandry or Mananjary.
You need not send the book for which I wrote, as I have found one here to answer the purpose.
Let me caution you to have nothing to do with or say anything about the troubles between the French and Hova Governments, as such would only tend to embarrass you. Of course, this does not prevent you from keeping up your friendly relations with our friends at the capital, being careful always to avoid any discussion on the present difficulty.
I herewith inclose passports for yourself and children. It will be necessary for you to sign them as soon as received. I hope there will be no difficulty in your sending money at once, which, when received, judgment will be satisfied, and I will send Paul home to dispose of my Iowa property, etc., and will request the proper French authorities here, through the United States consul, to allow me to return to my family at the capital, which I have no doubt they will kindly consent to. I hope Minnie has recovered from her illness, and that all the members of the family are well.
I wrote you some time ago that the Republicans in America had swept the country in the elections of November 6 last, and I am now able to give you a more definite statement of the result.
All Northern States have gone Republican; even Tennessee and West Virginia are in line. Republican majorities in the following States are very interesting and gratifying: New York (Morton, governor), 152,000; Pennsylvania, 234,000; Illinois, 125,000; Ohio, 135,000; Indiana, 60,000; Kansas elects full Republican ticket, and for the first time Michigan goes wholly Republican.
Republicans in next Congress will have 100 majority over all in the House. Senate,44 Republicans; Democrats,40; Populists, 3; doubtful, 1. This will permit Republicans to legislate over veto of President.
Methvene Castle is expected on 24th instant.
Hoping that this will reach you at an early date, and that God will guard and keep you all, I am,
Very sincerely, your husband,
P. S.—You need not send the two letters sent me from Washington by Langston & McGuinn.