My dear Son:
I have your of 17th inst. And enclose herewith my check for $425.00 for John’s expenses. Yes, I want a statement of what and how his money, or money sent for his use is expended, just as I did with you. My children are each entitled to the same consideration at my hand. I know of no difference in this respect, and shall, while I live and am able to work do what I can for them. John has shown a most determined disposition to be his own [page] but this makes no sort of difference with me. I shall do for him what I can, hoping and believing he will think [better] of it after awhile. So far as his studying is concerned, I am not unprepared for low grade reports. Not that I think he is not capable, but he never has adopted himself to organize the habit of study. His disposition to follow the bent of his inclination did much to advance this habit – or rather prevent the acquisition of close mental application. I feel sure that he will improve in this respect.
Relative to his coming home at Xmas, I had not expected him to do so. For several reasons thought it best for him to stay there. Thought probably he would not care to come. Lizzie and Sallie have been talking of sending him a box of something to eat and will no doubt. It may be however not till after the holidays.
I hope you will look as much after John as he will allow and give him the best advice you can. As you know I have a large family and no money to waste.
Nellie is a dear good girl. She is teaching and paying Georgia’s expense. This I shall endeavor to make up to her in some way. It is a good schooling for Nellie, too.
If you find your work will allow you to do so, we shall be glad to have you come home Xmas, but as I have so often endeavor to impress upon your mind, don’t let any pleasure interfere with your duty. Reputation for close attention to duty is worth to a young man as much as any other acquirement he can ever attain.
I have been thinking a good deal of the difference between school days now and school days only one quarter of a century ago. Then at most of the higher grade schools students were kept constantly employed. I had only one day at Xmas when attending the university, and no Saturdays. Now there is a big break in recitations at Xmas, and much time to travel about on tours of fun and frolic. A revulsion will surely come, and changes be made.
I don’t know that I have written you since I got our heater in place and at work. So far it does well and will be a source of comfort, and I think less expenses in fuel, too.
We are all as usual except Lizzie, and I am uneasy about her. She is not as strong as I would like to see her. She has helped me so much in my duty to your sisters that I may be too apprehensive when she is complaining.
Go to see Nell and Georgia if you can. John should help you with your work. It will be best for him. All send love to both you and him. Affectionately,
Jno. S. Apperson