Sumter, S. C.
Mar. 12, 1868

My dear Fuller:--

You see I have help in writing this week. You expressed a wish some time ago to have a specimen letter from one of my pupils, so here it is. Though written in my presence, I did not interfere in the least with either composition, form, or orthography. Washington is my best pupil, though I think I have others who could do this as well.

I am so glad New Hampshire is all right--the rebels made so sure of a Democratic victory there. I laughed heartily over the telegraphic despatch [?] Charleston News, which ran in these words: "New Hampshire has gone to the devil by the usual "majority." It is a terrible disappointment. Our convention is just about to adjourn. The nominating Convention was held this week on the same day that your election was held--the 10th. They nominated Gen. Scott for governor--I don't know what else.
When once Mr. Tamblyn has gone away I think there will be little trouble in my household, though [?] longer he stays the wider grows the breach. Do you know, I think Miss Hunt has known all the time that he was married:--at least there is no difference in her behavior now that I am sure she knows it. Frank is in great trouble about it. "Why, mum," he says, "dey makes no more 'count of me dan ef I'se chilens, dey stans kissin one anoder till I'se so shame & has to turn roun!" That's forcibly put, isn't it!

Oh, how glad I shall be when they have all gone away. Do let me stay a little while and enjoy it. They are going the first of June.

My peas are up and my cabbages [?] and onions. My room is filled with flowers which the children bring from the beautiful gardens of the village, whose owners probably would not give me a flower to save my life.

Please give my love to Mrs. Fisk.

Truly yours

Jennie B. Smith.

---

Sumter March 9th 1868.

Mr F. F. Fisk.

Dear sir it is [?] pleasure I seat myself to [?] you these few lines hoping they may find you well as it leaves me well. I am getting a long first-rate according to the time I have to study. I don't have so much time to study but the time I have I puts it to use in studying.

I have been going to school but one year & two months but not steadily just my leisure time.

I am hoping to make a [?] mean if I live please God.

I am so glad that I am Free. God have broken the chain of slavery. I am now studying Geography, Grammar, 5th Reader, Arithmetic, & other studies. I am going on pretty well I hope. I am 16 year old.

Mother & Father and all send [?] love to you.

[?] wish to be a lawyer.

[?] more at present Remain yours.

Direct your letter

Washington J. Smith

Sumter SC