James Gould to Elizabeth (Abbot) Bowditch, 22 July 1866

[From James Gould in Baltimore, Maryland, to Elizabeth (Abbot) Bowditch. He talks about the release of Elizabeth's son Nathaniel from prison camp during the war, and quotes a letter he received from Dorothea Dix about the matter, and again laments the lack of letters from Martha and Ellen, says he loves them and is "unconscious of why I have lost theirs."]

Baltimore July 22 1866

Dear Cousin Lizzie,

In looking over some papers I found a letter from Miss Dix1 relating to the release of Nathaniel,2 which I copy as it may interest you.

"March 22. Last week I left letters with the President3 concerning your friend. They were to have been acted upon on Saturday or Monday. Hearing nothing from them I went again. Waited till I could have the decision, and the President remarked 'Miss Dix I do this because you have asked it, and say you are willing to be responsible for the loyalty of the young man.' Your friend is free. I put the papers through five offices, and it has gone to Point Lookout. I pray you take such steps as that assures young Bowditch going direct to Mass. and not forfeiting my pledged word for him."

"In haste your friend D. L. Dix"

I have preserved many of the letters relating to him while a prisoner which you may have if they would interest you. The autograph letters of Miss D. will be valued in future times. She is a devoted Philanthropist and very eminent for her many services. Had the ear & regard of most public men long before the war and especially during that time. Sometime when you have an opportunity of sending for them, you may like to look over these letters.

Am very glad to learn that my letters were acceptable. And I also love to recal the many pleasant hours we shared 20 years ago. Oh how much since then has varied lifes busy scene, and how many vacant places must our memories search, and unresponsive glance. But such is life.

Am glad to hear through you of Marthas4 happiness and that she rejoices in another son.5 Her last letter to me was while Nathaniel2 was there. I have it now before me. May every year add its treasures to her happiness. When you write assure both Martha & Ellen6 of my love, and of my being unconscious of why I have lost theirs.

I shall be glad to learn of your removal to Tarboro. I shall then hope to see you in Baltimore, and we will talk over old times and about old friends. I would like as you say to look in upon you and your little group in your present home. I would not see Lizzie, the Belle of the evening at the Cadet Ball at our assembly rooms, but the matronly Mrs. B. & her family. And her daughter,7 to be a belle yet, maybe in Boston or Washington, who knows.

Accept love of cousin James.

  1. Dorothea Lynde Dix (1802-1887)
  2. Nathaniel Ingersoll Bowditch (1846-1913), Elizabeth's son. He served with a North Carolina artillery regiment during the Civil War, was captured during the Union assault on Fort Fisher, and imprisoned at Point Lookout, Maryland.
  3. Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865)
  4. Martha Eliza Abbot (1835-1870), Elizabeth's sister
  5. Abbot Thorndike (1866-1935)
  6. Ellen Louisa Abbot (1837-1887), Elizabeth's sister
  7. Georgiana Abbot Bowditch (1848-1927), Elizabeth's daughter