Reference
Z699/316
Title
Mary Ann Strange at Stroud to Edward Halford Strange at Manchester 13 Dec 1893
Dearest Son, I enclose Postal Orders for 50/- which will you acknowledge by card please. Dad had these by him and I do not want you to come home with no money in your pockets. I hope this may not have you in that condition! If so be sure to send for more, as you may need money for food on the road or any contingency which may arise. I do hope that you will come provided with food and also take something warm at any stopping place when time allows. I hope also that you will never make a journey as you did that first homecoming, fasting all those hours and for want of money too! Never scruple to ask for money dear, as we know you are not spendthrift! It will be nice to hear your dear tongue once more, and to see the dear face, even if it is very thin. I must own to family disappointment when the usually punctual epistle did not turn up on Monday at breakfast time but we only enjoyed it the more when it did arrive. We are in for the late work in the two shops this week. I am glad to say things are improving somewhat, the orders for Chalford very good on Monday. We, Dad and I, got out 500 price lists (and circulars enclosed) last week and on Monday, added to all the rest of the work, our 'noses are to the grindstone' pretty much always now I assure you, with household and business it is as much as strength allows. Dear Dad was very poorly on Sunday and stayed in bed until tea time - the rest seemed just what he needed. I could get none - had to cook in the morning and take a class for a sick teacher in afternoon. I was feeling very poorly and have been ever since more or less, very headachy and generally queer. On Monday had thought of going to jack's funeral but being so unwell considered it wiser to remain at home. Wilf has been very ailing too and I fancy has had 'la grippe' slightly. However he is tonight working late like the rest - it is something new for him to know really what hard work is.
I am late with this letter as my intended has been in to see me - she came just as I arrived at this stage of the letter ad now I have to get on paper you will dear excuse my saying much more I know.
So thankful the Professor liked your essay, you must feel nervous and sinking during the interview. If I can judge by my own case. We are very interested in the social account - you did have a fine time.
be sure to acknowledge the Orders, and do as I tell you about your journey. I count days to seeing you and I do hope you will come before 22nd or 23rd. We have a lovely lot of apples for you to peck at etc. I must tell you all news - when you are here! Smallpox is in the town! Anti-vaccinators will be put to the test perhaps! I do dread that disease - some day there are five cases but I trust not. Death is on every hand and illness very great. Typhoid we hear 63 cases in Stroud.
Much love from all, your loving Mother.
Date free text
13 Dec 1893
Production date
From: 1893 To: 1893
Exent
No. of pieces: 1
Format
paper
Level of description
item