Emily Dickinson — Letter 395 about September 1873 Mrs. J. G. Holland

Owning but the little Stock in the "Gold of Ophir" I am not subject to large Reverses- though may not the small prove irreparable? I have lost a Sister. Her name was not Austin and it was not Vinnie. She was scant of stature though expansive spirited and last seen in November - Not the November heretofore, but Heretofore's Father. Trite is that Affliction which is sanctified. "I have chosen whom I have chosen." Possibly she perished? Extinction is eligible. Science will not trust us with another World. Guess I and the Bible will move to some old fashioned spot where we'll feel at Home.                                                                                                              Emily.