January 24, 1850, a son was born. Dr. Field, supposing that he was to be named Cyrus, addressed the following letter, superscribed:
“Master Cyrus W. Field, Jr.,
“Of the Firm of Cyrus W. Field & Co.,
“No. 11 Cliff Street,
“New York.”
“Higganum, January 28, 1850.
“Master Cyrus W. Field, Jr.:
“Dear Grandson,—We were happy in hearing of your safe arrival last Thursday morning, and hope you will be a great honor and blessing to your parents and to your delighted sisters. Your grandmother sends you much love, and says she hopes you will make as good a man as your father.
“Give our love to your parents, to Grace, etc., etc., and by-and-by come up and see whether Higganum pleases you as well as New York. The Lord bless you and all your friends. Tell them that we are well and happy.
“Your affectionate grandfather,
“David D. Field.”
And Mrs. Kirkland sent a note beginning:
“A boy! a boy!
I wish you joy!”
She also wrote: “The pleasantest thing I have to tell you is that Miss Bremer promises me a visit, and will probably be here in two or three weeks.” The visit was paid and gave great pleasure. Mrs. Field told of one evening passed at Mrs. Kirkland’s, when the Swedish novelist was quite unconscious that from her cap hung a paper on which was written 2/6.
The autumn of 1850 was long remembered by parents and children. Early in September the two-seated covered wagon and buggy were filled by the entire family, who left New York for a drive of four weeks; first to Guilford, Conn., then to Stockbridge, returning from Hudson to New York by the night boat.