From Thomas Waters Jr. to his parents, Elizabeth Waters and Thomas Waters Sr. (November 22, 1849)

[Thomas Waters to his parents]

[from a transcript]           31

22 November 1849 

     Digby.     N.S.

Dear Father and Mother

The want of any interesting news has kept me from writing to you before and even now I have little to send you.  The times here are very dull for vessels of all descriptions; and numbers are laid up for the winter and more prosperous times.  The vessel which I rigged has not been launched on account of the low freights but as soon as the times alter for the better they will let her slide, however I am doing well considering the quantity of masters, mates, and seamen at present out of employ, every thing is very cheap in the victualing department.  I have been in steady employment ever since I first went into the Dakins & Son’s employ and they still keep a berth for me although at present they could get many for less wages.  I am bound now to Sydney for a load of coal but as yet I do not know where to carry it to, the weather is mild for this time of the year but rather stormy.  I received letters from Eliz and Sarah and like wise from Ben and Mary for which I am much obliged, I am glad to hear Ben is doing and earning something for himself I hope they all may thrive.  I am trying to save up enough to get a share in a small vessel which has been promised me by my employers who are very kind to me.

Potatoes are selling here at 10 pence per bushel and apples at half the price, fat geese 10 pence and beef 11 pence per pound.  I am glad Sarah likes her studies for I find education is a passport into society when coupled with good behaviour.  There are plenty of young men here holding the same and better situations than myself who are not admitted to as respectable society as myself owing to the want of education.  You can still direct to Digby as I expect to be back by Xmas hoping you are all in good health as I am at present and wishing you a happy Xmas and a merry New Year 

I remain

 Your affectionate son

Thomas Waters

Give my good wishes to Uncle, Aunt, and Cousins and all enquiring friends.