Sampler with the four lines of alphabet stitching (upper case letters, followed by lower case letters), stitched name ("Mary Ripley") and age ("age 10") followed by stitched numbers 1 through 12.  Finished with initials "MAR."  Fading, browning of linen.  Antique wooden frame from Foster Bros. of Boston at 4 Park Square, Boston.  Paper backing is brittle and has separated from frame along top edge and top corners. Measures 8 3/4" x 8 3/4". 

The simplicity of design in this sampler is typical of a young girl's first attempt at sampling.  Valued at $200.00 by a professional appraiser.