Helen Hunt Jackson Papers, Part 2, Ms 0156, Box 2, Folder 25e: N.W. Houghton to HHJ, not dated.
Transcribed by Gloria Helmuth, 2003.

in pencil at top: [May 18?]

My dear Mrs. Jackson,

I have been trying for weeks to get time to write a line to you, as I wanted very much to tell you how much interest I have felt in your labors this winter in behalf of the Indians. I have followed as carefully as possible the reports as printed in the daily papers, and have thought that you must have derived great satisfaction in watching the progress of the cause you have espoused so zealously, and that the undertaking and carrying forward so noble a mission must have already brought to you a rich reward. I really feel that as a nation and individuals we owe a debt of gratitude to you and to all who have striving [sic] so hard to relieve this cruelest of all oppressions. I hope I shall be able to see you before you start for Europe. Are you to sail on the 29th inst.? And are you coming to Boston? If so, I shall certainly expect to see you. Every body seems to be leaving the New for the Old World this summer, and I had somewhat expected to be among the number. But no! Business, business, business binds my husband with unrelenting chains, and I must submit to the bondage with him, and be content.

And now, hoping that you have a most prosperous passage to the Trans-Atlantic shore, and that you may enjoy the refreshment and immigration which you have so well earned by unwearied effort in the cause of humanity.

I am very cordially

Your friend, N. W. Houghton

Cambridge
May 18th

Kind regards to Mr. Jackson.