Although I should most gladly have you with me, yet I can not ask you to come here in this excessive heat. I have never felt the heat so oppressive as it has been for some time past; and I should fear you might become sick were you to visit Washington. Besides, you could not have any enjoyment.
I entertain a hope that I may be able to visit Bedford about the first of August. In that event, I should be willing to take you along with me. But whether it will be in my power to leave this city is still uncertain. Please to write to me how you intend to spend your vacation, and where a letter would reach you. Should the heat moderate, I still hope to see you in Washington.
Yours affectionately,
James Buchanan.
Washington, July 27th, 1845.
My Dear Harriet:—
I believe, although I am not yet quite certain, that I shall be able to leave here for the Bedford Springs on Thursday next. I shall be glad if you will accompany me. Unless you hear from me in the meantime, you may be at Harper’s Ferry on Thursday, before the cars pass from Baltimore to Cumberland. If I should not be able to go on that day, you may still be there. Mrs. Pleasonton,[[83]] Miss Pleasonton and Mrs. Bancroft will take charge of you to Bedford; and there you will find Mr. and Mrs. Plitt, under whose care I will place you until I can reach the Springs myself. Still, I hope to be able to go on Thursday. Of course you will get some one of your friends to accompany you from Charleston to Harper’s Ferry. Please to write to me immediately on the receipt of this.
Yours affectionately,
James Buchanan.
Washington, July 6th, 1846.