[Thomas Waters to his parents]
[from a transcript] XXII
Halifax. 12 April 1847
Dear Father and Mother
I thought to have received a letter from home on my arrival here but have not, I hope that John has recovered his health and that you are all quite well. The craft of which I was mate was frozen in, in the Harbour of Louisburg [Louisbourg] and the crew and myself had to put up with half pay or leave her, and we had a very severe winter, the ice full three feet thick around us, but I was used with great kindness by several merchants ashore particularly by Squire McAlpine, magistrate, and his family; we had a rough passage from Newfoundland and exceedingly long one and were short of provisions, more so than ever I was before, it brought me down nearly as low as John must have been, indeed I have not regained my flesh yet, but I was in good health as I am at present and now it is over; so all is right: we had two very heavy gales in which we had to get a long spar with a heavy weight to it overboard ahead with a strong hawser fast to it to keep us more head to sea and it certainly is a great help. The merchant in whose employ I am has offered me the same billet again provided he does not sell the vessel, which he intends to do if he can. I wish to get to England but am afraid there will be no chance soon, in case of which I must steer some other course, but if in any way I can get home before next winter I will, or sooner. I have plenty of clothes and want for nothing so do not be anxious about me. I sent a letter by a shipmate home from Newfoundland, but you never received it as I have heard since that the ship and crew are among the ocean casualties, but the letter I sent to Uncle I suppose you have seen and I have no more news to tell, but be sure on receiving this to write me back quick as I have concluded to take a trip to the West Indies which will not last more than two months and I have not heard from you later than last August. I have shipp’d as mate in a craft called the Union and get better wages on account of the sickly season where we are bound. Ben I hope is well. Direct letters to me at Mr John Casey, Water St, Halifax, N.S. Hoping that all of you are in good health. Your affectionate son Thomas Waters
Remember me to Uncle Aunt Cousins etc and enquiring friends. I sail in half an hour so excuse short letter. Be particular in directing.