You must, doubtless, be prepared for the sad news I have to convey, the death of my dearest, most precious mother. It took place yesterday afternoon at four o'clock. Father is too broken-hearted to write himself. We were all with her, and she was conscious to the last. Will you and uncle be able to attend the funeral on Saturday next? Please excuse this short letter, dear aunt, as I am really too upset to write connected sentences.
Your sorrowful niece,
Lina Black.
306. To a Brother-in-Law, Announcing the Death of the Writer's Husband.
F——, May 17, 19—.
Dear Arthur:—
You will have received my telegram telling you that my dear husband was sinking fast. The change for the worse took place quite suddenly last night, and this morning at six o'clock he died. I am too miserable to write more, pray come to me if possible; there is so much to be arranged, and I feel quite unequal to giving the necessary directions for the funeral.
Your unhappy sister,
Julia C. Dudeny.