From Benjamin Butterworth to his sister Mrs. Elizabeth Waters (February 24, 1827)

[Benjamin Butterworth to his sister Elizabeth Waters,]

Addressed to Mrs Waters, Mulgrave Place, Woolwich

Rochdale Feb^y.24th 1827

Dearest Sister —

Your letter dated Feb^y 17th I only received yesterday the 23rd it had been missent to Rochester. I am truly sorry you should have so much reason to complain of my long silence it is owing more to my negligence of which I promise I will not again be guilty than to any want of affection or esteem for you – My Aunt as been very unwell since I last wrote you she has frequent attacks of severe pains in her Bowels together with restiveness but I am happy to say at the present time she is rather better- Her appetite is much worse than formerly she dozes & sleeps a great part of the Day & towards Evening she does nothing but dress & undress — herself she is altogether an altered person since you was here & I am afraid from her advanced age & her health failing her she will not be long spared to us- My Brothers affair is not yet settled Mr Chadwick has been from home & of course nothing could be done but he is now returned & in a short time I hope the matter will be arranged. Miss Taylor was here the other day she always wants to see your letters she begs to be remembered to you. Sam & Molly are both well. I am glad to say my knee still continues to improve & except colds which I get now & then I am very well. The weather here is very severe we have had a long frost & every thing yet as [has] the appearance of Winter. We were much pleased with Mr Waters letter since it speaks of is [his] return home what a pleasure it will be to you when this happens that it may happen soon is what we all wish. Trade as been rather better here for this last month or two but is now going bad again I hope it will not continue so long– Mr Horton sends me a Manchester paper weekly I will send it over to you the postage will cost you nothing & I have no doubt but it will amuse you — I hope yourself & our little niece & nephew are all well pray write again very soon & believe me
  your affectionate Brother
          Benjⁿ Butterworth
P.S. You must forgive me my long silence this once & I promise not to offend again in future.