AU10/100/7/1

Letter from S.A.Francis in Souris, Manitoba [Canada] to Arthur Henry Peer: "I dare say you will think that I have quite forgotten you, as you have not heard from me before, but such is not the case. I often think of the times we had together. I am glad to tell you that I like the country very much & that it suits me. I am feeling & looking much better than when I was at home. I struck this place right away when I came out & have stayed with it since. I have been turning my hands to all kinds of work, taking anything that comes along. My cousin who came out with me has got a good situation on a farm about 40 miles west of here. I have not taken up farming as yet. I do not hardly think I shall unless I am forced to. We have winter on us already - had a heavy fall of snow yesterday & accompanied by a strong north wind has caused it to drift in places from 4 to 5 feet deep. The fall is quite unprecedented for the time of year, the oldest settlers do not remember such a storm so early. The trees are broken down in many places with the weight of the snow & I am afraid the corn will be spoilt as it is all standing in the shocks. The farmers will not be able to commence thrashing now for some few days. This place contains about 1200 inhabitants & is very pleasantly situated on the river of the same name. It has a splendid natural park & some very pretty residences. I do not know if you have been down to see my people lately but when you do they will shew you a book of views which I sent them some time ago. I was appointed organist of the English church the week after I arrived here & have met with very nice people among them. I am lodging with a couple who have only been out here 12 months. They brought their piano out with them from the old country so I get lots of music. I play the cello in the Orchestra & what with the practices &c. I find my time pretty well taken up. The morning service at the Church commences at 11 o'clock & the evening at 7. I found some difficulty after getting out here to drop into the ways especially the meals. We only have 3 a - Breakfast at 7. Dinner at 12. Tea or supper as they call it at 6. I did miss our English supper about 9 o'clock at first but soon got used to it. We have substantial meals - meat at each & I believe it is really better for anyone than so many snacks. How are all the Ampthill people now? Have you had a cantata lately? Give my kind regards to Mr.Peer & the family & also remember me to all old friends. If you see Mr.Tutt remember me to him & tell him I am going to write him the first opportunity. I must say au revoir for this time. Wishing you the best of health & prosperity"

13 Aug 1903

From: 1903 To: 1903

English

item

Peer, Arthur Henry,
Francis, Samuel Alfred,
Tutt

Souris River, weather, food & drink, church organs, cello, MUSIC, pianos, church services, Canadians, emigration, Souris