Papa,
I shall soon be departing for Heaven to be with the Lord God. My only regret of these fourteen years is that they were so short and no time has been allotted me further to be spent with you, my dear father. It is comforting and saddening to hope that you will not join me in eternity for many years.
Oh Papa, I fear for you and your health on the day of my leaving. I ask only that you be at ease with my new life that is awaiting me. I know that you were bereft when Mother was taken by consumption as I know you will be when I go. I remember too well the pain in your eyes, how near to an animal you seemed to me, in search of the one your heart loved; some days I would see you from the very corners of my vision with the shape of you but a face of nothing, only a memory of where your playful eyes and gentle mouth once were. Oh how frightened I would be by this vision, this visage that overtook your soul to pour out in physical form, as some demon.
Papa, I beg you, do not let the evil take hold of you, but, in its stead, hold fast to the spirit of the Lord and the knowledge that you will be joining Mama and me in the hereafter. Do not seek me out on this cold earth, for I will be far gone. I pray you find love with a fair woman, one with whom you can build a beautiful family that I may meet one day.
My strength is failing me and I must say farewell. I will miss your long arms and the embrace they provided me each day; the haven you were for me from the pains of this world. I go to find haven with my heavenly father now but I will never forget your love, Papa, and will eagerly wait for you at the feet of the Lord when your day comes.
Your Loving Daughter,
Sylvia