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It was a very hot day and the getting home from Albany by a way train was very tedious. As we approached Rhinebeck the morning we left home we saw the flag at half mast and knew the President was dead and at rest at last. Genl Sharpe went up with us as far as Hudson where we got off and spent an hour or two with old Mr. & Mrs. Gifford before it was time to take the train for Chatham.

Saturday Sept. 24 Booth and Edwina came up on the Powell as he had telegraphed me. They were here last the summer when Gertrude died, three years ago. He and I sat up until 1 o'clock talking over his troubles which he bears with, what seems to me commendable patience.

Sunday 25. We went over to my studio to see my studies. After the rest went back we remained there and talked until dinner time and he told me freely his trials and what he meant to do. The weather is intensely hot. The whole world is in mourning for the dead President. No such unusual sympathy was ever shown before.

Monday 26. A very hot day. We did little but sit quietly and talk over a thousand things. Downing came last night. Booth talked very frankly with me yesterday concerning him and Edwina. They seem very fond of each other and I am going to talk with Downing the first opportunity for Booth told me he was more than satisfied with Downing and thinks only of Edwinas happiness. Memorial services for the President were held at the Baptist church today at the hour of the funeral in Cleveland. Only my father and Mother went. Booth and Edwina left by the 7 o'clock train. They meant to have gone this morning but wisely concluded to wait until evening as it was so very hot.

Tuesday 27" Downing and I took my birch canoe down to the creek at the Powells dock and launched it after having repaired the ((pitching?)) here. Went around to the point and after paddling about a while the wind began to blow and a shower was detected. I made an arrangement with  Mr. King the boat builder to keep her for me and we left her in one of his buildings. Had a confidential talk with Downing and made him very happy. He went home by evening train.

Transcription Notes:
way train: a train that stops at stations