My dear Calvin,

This morning I have just a few minutes to wish you the compliments of the seasons for you must not think though you are far away that we forget you this holiday time. Isaac and I were just saying we wished you could eat your Christmas dinner at home. With this I [?] accept a mild note just as a kindly remembrance of the Season.

I don't know whether you like silk handkerchiefs but they are quite the fashion here. I bought Isaac one and I thought perhaps you would like one too, for it would not do for brother Calvin to be the only one of the family without an Xmas present however small. We are all very well. Mama is very grateful to you for the benefit you have rendered her and Tiny is getting on splendidly,¹ as jolly as possible--Now you will excuse this hasty note as it is rather a busy day, and wishing you a Merry Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year with many returns in which Isaac joins.

Believe me,

Your loving sister,

Mary B. McQuesten

¹ "Tiny" is the baby, Mary Baldwin McQuesten, born on March 20, 1874.