Letter from Mrs. Martin to her brother Isidore CF 35
August 23, 1868.
I think we're going to have the misfortune of losing little Joseph again, he's at his wit's end. Louis assured me this morning that it would take a miracle to save him, everyone tells me as much. He is much worse since Tuesday. Until then, his condition was not serious and did not prevent him from sleeping or eating, he even seemed not to suffer, because he was very cheerful and never cried, only he did not enjoy himself. For five days, he vomits everything he takes.
I saw two doctors; one didn't order me anything, the other not much; I believe they have no hope of saving him. I'm really discouraged, I don't even have the strength to treat him anymore, it tears my heart out to see a little being in so much pain. It has only a plaintive cry. For forty-eight hours, he has not slept a wink. He bends double under the force of pain. When you get this letter, he'll probably be dead.
So, my dear friends, if you come, you see the pleasure that awaits you! However, I still hope, I can't imagine that the good Lord won't leave my dear little boy to me.
I will write to you in two or three days. If the child is better, you will have to come as agreed, otherwise, delay your trip for eight days, because we would not be able to receive you.
