Z506/3/14/10

Letter from John Field to father, John Perring Field.

12 Aug 1873

From: 1873 To: 1873

Apologies for delay in writing. Has heard all important news from Frederick Martell. Was at Geelong yesterday where Octavius, Marguiretta and Mrs Mathieson had been staying for a few days. Missed Octavius as he had started back for Ondit. Octavius had an accident lately breaking 2 ribs 'one of his flyaways fell with him under. I was in hopes it would have proved a caution to him…' Business continues well, but family getting expensive. Expenditure is £3.10s per week – all acquired by saw sharpening. However if had remained at Gun Wharf would only have had 6s per day and nothing for the boys. Henry Martell's prospects are decidedly gloomy. His school will be closed at the end of the year, when he will be out of commission. Many small schools are being amalgamated into larger ones and many teachers will be out of employment. Has declined 2 offers – due to distance or drop on salary. 'He is being dealt with very hard after an efficient service of 13 years'. 'The old system was exceptional, for there is no employ where the whole family can participate as in teaching'. He himself enjoys good health. Sight is better than at Canterbury. Suffers from giddiness - 'do you think it is Bile?'. It is not through drink as is still a total abstainer

item

Field, John,
Field, John Perring,
Martell, Fred,
Field, Octavius,
Field, Marguriette,
Mathieson,
Martell, Henry

family correspondence, teacher