Reference
Z699/22
Title
Ann May to Priscilla May 13 Jan 1825
Ampthill 1st Mo 13th 1825
My dear P.
I conclude thou art not ignorant that W. Holmes has been spending some time at his mother's, I had pleased myself with the thought that he would surely see thee, and bring me a fine flattering account of thy improvement already, under this new discipline; judge then of my disappointment, when, on his return by coach last 3rd day, he had not even seen thee, & what was worse had heard thou wast prevented from going to meeting by a cold, which renders me very anxious to hear again, as perhaps I may, from Tottenham - if thou art still indisposed - have recollected with concern that thou had'st one very thin pair of slippers than which nothing could be more likely to give thee cold, pray lay them by until Summer - again, in puzzling for the cause, have thought it just possible the draught from the window, so near thy bed, might affect thee, but it may be better not to mention such trifles, only to make use of such the hint by increased attention to health, I place the utmost confidence in S.C. [Susanna Corder]'s care, but that will do little without thy own -
Lewis being under the table knocking with his stick, just returned from a walk, thou wilt not expect me to add he is well - It would surprise thee to see how fast he improves, nothing can be more lovely & entertaining.
I must try to scribble a little to dear Sammy; his great cake being now in the oven is my signal. thy Father intends taking it to him next 1st day, goes to town tomorrow.- I am sorry I forgot to tell M. & E.Bennell yesterday of the present conveyance for a line. Joseph is to tell them, as it would be possible to write after he goes to market.
Thy birds are quite well - none of the plants are in bloom they are moved into the little front room, the passage being too cold.
D.Pearman dined here, is just gone. Thy aunt D. seems well, the better for country air or something here. Elizth Kingston's father died this morning & poor Tom Roberts a few days since. I have called on Betsy Cook who seems to be in a lingering consumption. H.Whitbread is convalescent - I have spar'd Sarah to go & help Nancy in her ironing.
Now for a word on the worn out subject of poking, I hope S.C. promotes thy wearing the braces.-
Ann is hired to go to Edmund Fosters this day three weeks, as Lewis lives in the parlour I think we shall do very well without her.
J.Pumphrey drank tea here last evening - poor Maria goes muddling on without a servant.
Last week I rode over to Upberry to see Ann Whitbread who is in great affliction from various causes.
Thy friend W.Holmes brought a number of new books for the Society which seem approved, two small vol. by the late Jane Taylor entitled Contributions to the Youth's Magazine by Q.Q. I am much pleased with.
I had a pleasant walk to Millbrook this Morning with M.Morris,
When thou writes remember everything relating to thyself is interesting.
Our united love to thy cousins & accept the same from
Thy ever affectionate
Mother
[in pencil] Lewis's love to dear P.
Date free text
13 Jan 1825
Production date
From: 1825 To: 1825
Exent
No. of pieces: 1
Level of description
item