Wheatland, August 5th, 1864.
My Dear Miss Lane:—
I arrived here this afternoon, baggage all safe, a few minutes after three o’clock. I never had so agreeable a ride on a railroad car. I would advise you, by all means, in returning home, to stay all night at Huntingdon and come by the cars on the next morning. I told Mr. Miller......, and I wish you to stay at his house. We parted from Mrs. Pegram, Miss Brent, and Mr. Jackson, at Harrisburg—a sorry parting.
I found all things in good order on my arrival. Mrs. Fahnestock is still here and so is Miss Harriet Parker.
Governor Curtin, as you will have perceived, has called for the services of 30,000 volunteers to defend the State against the rebels.
I scarcely know to what ladies to send my love at Bedford, but I wish you to deliver it especially to the ladies who gave me a parting kiss. The fragrance of their lips is as fresh as at the first moment. I hope you and Harriet will behave with all proper respect to your venerable aunt. Remember me most kindly to Mrs. Wade. I hope she will place you under proper restraint, a thing I have never been able to accomplish. Give my best love to Harriet.
I entertain no fears for you at the Springs. It is possible, however, that the rebels may succeed in cutting the railroad track between Huntingdon and Harrisburg, which would put you to some inconvenience on returning home; but be not alarmed.
Yours affectionately,
James Buchanan.
P.S.—From a telegram sent by Mr. Scott to Altoona, it would seem he considers that place to be in danger.