Singe sheet, 7.75 x 5 inches with original cover postmarked Wadsworth, Ohio with 2-cent Washington stamp; addressed to Mrs. J. L. Loose, Lindsey, Ohio (Ferndale Farm). Rogue pencil marks, otherwise in Near Fine condition. The letter provides a good portrait of a regular woman--borrowing her sister's dress (low-necked!), being concerned about appearances, and mention of "summer complaint," the term used for the deadly diarrheal affliction which surged during summer months and was a significant cause of infant mortality in the early twentieth century.

Full transcription:

Wadsworth, O. July 28, '08
Dear mother,
Mary's card and I think a letter has come since I last wrote. The card was received yesterday. Was delighted to know that you got a low necked dress for Luisa. Now we would like to have it in Carrollton this week when we get there. We are going tomorrow (Wednesday). Would have gone today as planned last week, but baby has been sick with summer complaint; had the Dr. for her several times. It commenced a week ago tonight, and until Sunday thought we would have to put off going to Carrollton this week. She seems to be all right now again, but we wanted to give her all the time we could to get strong again. It made her look quite thin. I could hardly do anything toward getting ready to go away while she was sick.
I must pack the trunk yet then we will be ready to go tomorrow. Washed and ironed again today. You see, we have decided to take the trunk. Our valises make us look so much like tramps. What I would have to take looked so scuffed. So we will try and get the trunk through some way. Send the dress to Carrollton. We will be there till Monday. Lovingly, Ida.