I am glad that you have named the little one Hugh. I trust that he will grow up to inherit not only the name, but the virtues and qualities of the old stock.... I am alone and have been for a month. It was a great trial to me losing Esther; she was like a daughter to me and anticipated all my wants. I trust the good Father who has thus far provided for me will continue His paternal care.... I have outlived a multitude of good friends and helpers, but the great Friend, He of whom other friends are the instruments, is everlasting.
Letter to son, June 25, 1900.
We had a great time here yesterday. We put off our service till eleven o’clock, which gave time for the boat to arrive and bring a great crowd from Portland. Many of them were old friends of mine. Every one seemed pleased and satisfied. It would have been a very hard day for me, but Fannie came over and got dinner, and John Randall carried me down, so that I had no horse to harness and take care of. I have lost one of the best friends I ever had in George Barnes. He was but a boy when I came here, and he helped me to get the timber to build my house.
Last entry in Journal, Jan. 14, 1901.
I am going to spend this evening in thanksgiving to God.
Aunt Betsy and Uncle William Alexander, for fifty years nearest neighbors and dear friends of Elijah Kellogg.