Chester, S.C.
					May 20, 1902
My dear Cousin Jennie,
	How my heart goes out to you in the deepest sympathy. I had not heard of your sad affliction 
until I rec'd Wilhelmena's note this morning, and I am in surprise to know which one of your boys 
you have lost. I need not say that this sure and bitter bereavement has filled me with the profoundest 
sympathy as I know you are not a stranger to the throne of grace, nor to the presence which flows from 
communion with God. I cannot but hope this solemn visitation will be improved to increase your intimacy 
with the "Friend that sticketh closer than a brother", who alone can dry up the tears of sorrow, and give 
you "beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for morning and the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness."
	This melancholy event, let it be remembered, speaks not only to you, but to all of your household. It 
says to each and every one of your family you too must die, prepare to meet your God, when you least expect 
it. When you are dreaming of and planning your fancies with brilliant prospects, your hopes may at once be 
crushed. I have thus dear Cousin Jennie (you too whom I have such sweet recollections for all of these long 
years) endeavored to direct your mind, now softened by grief and capable of receiving permanent impressions 
to such meditations as I thought would be more convenient to your good. Let this Cousin Jennie be your 
conviction. Death has robbed you of nothing you shall want in eternity. Your real inheritance is sure, and 
now that the God of all grace may sanctify you wholly and so exceedingly abundantly for you above all that 
you are able to ask or think, is the sincere fervent and heartfelt prayers of your cousin.
				     Payton