In honor of Valentine’s Day, I thought I would post the text of a letter written by Lucius Terrell Penick (my great great-grandfather) to his future mother-in-law requesting permission to marry her daughter. Evidently she gave permission since they were married on September 18, 1859.
Round Top, Texas
June 16, 1859
My Dear Madam;
Wishing to speak to you on a subject of much importance, and being a considerable distance apart, I have taken the privilege of writing to you. Though I should suppose you were aware of the circumstances, I have corresponded with your daughter several months (you read my letters I believe).
I declared love to her, and as I had hoped she accepted my heart and gave hers in return. Now, I solicit your consent which I hope you will grant as I wish to claim her hand as soon as convenient.
I know it must be hard to give an only daughter, but do not consider that you are losing the love of a daughter, but that you are giving one the privilege of loving you as one of your own sons.
I shall never ask your daughter to live here, for I know she would not be satisfied and I believe it is my duty as well as my greatest pleasure to act so that I may promote something to her happiness.
You loved once (Am I not right?) then do not cause two young hearts to sorrow, but speak some cheering words that may be happy. I know you will weigh this subject well therefore I shall close hoping soon to receive an answer.
Most respectfully yours,
L.T. Penick
