Financially hard pressed, Jesse, as usual, wishes he could do more. Again he wishes he could be with Lee and family.

My Dear Ida

Your kind letter at hand -
I am sure it was not enough to require thanks. I am only sorry it was not more. I did not send Bess much at Xmas and as she wanted a dress sent her a (illegible) - Would like to have included your self and Sallie but the world has not been going quite as smooth with me lately as it might. Am still a little hard pushed. Bess often writes about the children, seems to think a great deal of them, also Sallie. I am glad to hear Jessie is getting along so well at school. Give them my best love and a kiss, and hope the time may come when I can give them in person something more substantial than a kiss.

Love to all
Affectionately
Jesse