Kuhmo, 12 April 1835
Dear Friend.
I left Kajaani a full week ago with the intention of getting
to Russia before the roads began thawing. But they are softening
up faster than I thought, and I have not progressed any further
than the vicarage here. And I cannot say it is because I have
been slow, because I have spent many days here taking care
of a sick person and waited in vain for that fresh vaccine
which the priest in Repola in Russian Karelia has asked me
both in person and in writing to bring. And, as a matter of
fact, I haven't been particularly bored here. Early in the
week I travelled with the priests going out to give the catechism
tests in villages along the Russian border, and I happened
to get a few poems from some Russian men who had come over
for the occasion. During the latter part of the week, I have
been playing cards quite a bit in the vicarage with three
priests, the Sheriff of Sotkamo, the District Registrar and
others.
- What do you think of the name
"Kalevala"? I might give it a different name if
you prefer... I will have to finish my letter now. Please
give my best to others there and write to me. I will respond
when I come back from Russia. Your friend,
Elias Lönnrot
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