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Nancy May to Priscilla Strange 11 Aug 1837 Ipswich 8th mo 11th 1837
My dear Sister
Thy very acceptable letter of the 8th inst. met me on our return from the wedding at GlazenWood, but it was too late to write had I been inclined, which I really was not after a very hot and dusty ride - we have enjoyed our trip very much, we went to Colchester on 3rd day evening, slept there and proceeded to GW on 4th day morning, arrived just as the Bridal party came from church, after making ourselves a little presentable we partook of cake and wine, sauntered about in the grounds till near dinner, which was to be one of substance, by way of a little "chit chat" I will describe it, green peas soup at top, Salmon at bottom, these were removed for 3 boiled fowls and a beautiful piece of roast beef, a goose {&} pair of ducks with vegetables comprised this course.
After that came various sweets, which not being much in my way, I left to others, the desert was as good as might be expected for the time of year, Pine, Melon, grapes &c. - all very good of their kind, tea & coffee followed - and then the parting with the most interesting of the company, this is the worst part of a wedding, Harriet changed her dress before tea, and when she came into the room her spirits had evidently given way, & we all caught the infection, however they soon took their departure (alone) and we branch off in small parties to walk, meeting again at the supper table when the same cheerfulness prevailed as before - C. & I with the Brother of S.F. and a young friend of the Bride's were the only guests except Brothers & Sisters, Samuel, Caroline & Emily absent.
I thought Hellen [Helen] Tuckett looking very well, she & A with their two children set off the next morning to stay 2 days at Uncle Hooper's, and then go home, I never did see such a wonderful likeness as Bessy is to Aunt Tuckett. Maria is to go to Clapton this day week, and then settle down at home, Emily staying with William. Uncle feels the loss of H but he took it in his usual quiet way, indeed I think he has every reason to be pleased with the connection, S.F. appears an amiable young man, very unassuming and gentle in his manners, but as I have other things to write about I must not fill my paper at this rate.
It is said half a loaf is better than no bread - Therefore if it is quite impossible for Brother E to come I hope thou wilt not be discouraged but come thyself and replace a part of thy letter - I am not quite sharp now to be certain I understand -
I have heard of E & C going to Ramsgate &c, I wish whilst they are in the humour they would come & see us but fear this is more than we must expect -
Hellen says Anna Tuckett got through very well, though it was a large child (11 lbs) so one time is indeed no rule for another, and prophesies even by the wisest women do not stand for much in such things I think. -
I am glad to hear such a good account of our old friends J & E Bennell - what can John mean by such unbrotherly conduct, what a good thing it is no one is tied to him -
I hope dear Father will be better when I hear again, and am truly grieved Charles not sending his crocus, should add to it, I have I assure thee done & said all I can in the matter, and I am desired to say it will now be ready very soon -
On 3rd day next I expect our new Governess and sincerely glad shall I be to get settled in this respect, as will the dear girls also.-
If my ring will be of any use to thee keep it. I only purchased another a few days ago -
I am expecting to hear daily from M A Tatham to say when she comes to see us - I am now nicely again, all the better for my little time out - Our dear children are well also - Charles thinks as B.Tatham wishes it he had better write direct to him as it will be too long a story to add to Mother's letter.
I shall feel sorry if thou art obliged to give Mary up to Cupid's power, a wife John seems determined to have, surely Mary will think a great many times before she gives way -
I am sorry Mary White is delicate, she has done so much I think, Edward can I should suppose afford to have her spared a little now -
I am glad Joseph had a favourable voyage to town, and our uncle with him.
Thou does not say whether you have settled upon J. & E.Thomas, should not think you will find much satisfaction in visiting there, our friends here are much as usual, Sarah Ransome better -
I must now conclude this hasty letter.
My C & children desire to unite in my dear love to all with
thy ever affectionate Sister A.C.May -
May & Strange Postmarks : B IPSWICH
Ampthill 22AU22 AU21
P.Strange Bedfordshire 1837 1837