The lines in which you speak to me of the dear children give me great pleasure; they permit me to see the children in my thoughts.
Embrace the darlings tenderly for me.
So, my dear and good Lucie, courage always. Hold your head proudly high until the day comes when, side by side, we can forget this horrible drama.
Let us hope for all our sakes that that hour may be at hand.
I embrace you as I love you.
Your devoted
Alfred.
Kisses to all.
26 January, 1896.