From Thomas Waters Jr. to his parents, Elizabeth Waters and Thomas Waters Sr. (December 1852)

[Thomas Waters to his parents]

[from transcripts]

December 1852

Digby.     Nova Scotia

Dear Father and Mother

I promised to write to you so soon as I should find out to what port the Scotia was bound.  I now have to inform you that in a heavy gale on the 24th November while on her passage to the port at which I was to take charge, she was cast away and totally wrecked, the Captain and crew were saved with much difficulty after having clung to the wreck all night and next day when they were saved by a gallant boat’s crew, they suffered a good deal having been exposed without shelter to the whole of a heavy snow storm.  Captain Dakin is now here and I am happy to say does not look much the worse for the rub.  I am now out of a berth but expect to take charge of some vessel soon as I could have got a berth before had I not waited for the Scotia.  Clearing a piece of land for a house now occupies my time, it is very hard work and hot into the bargain as we have to burn the brush and underwood to get it out of our way, the logs we pile up to burn next spring, it seems a pity to burn good timber but it costs as much to get it to market as it is worth.  I cannot say now when it is likely I shall see home again but hope soon.  Hoping you are all well

  I remain

 Your affectionate son

Thomas Waters