From Thomas Waters Sr. to his wife Elizabeth Waters (November 26, 1826)

[Thomas Waters, R.M., to his wife, Elizabeth]

Addressed to Mrs. Lt. Waters R.Marines, Mulgrave Place, Woolwich, Kent

No 16 H.M.S. Maidstone St. Thomas’ Gulf of Guinea 24 Nov. 1826

My Dearest Love

The above Draft will probably be of use to you. I cannot say what time we shall arrive in England but I think it likely, by the Almighty’s blessing, that you will see me in about six or eight month’s time at any rate you need not direct any more letters to me to this part of the World after the middle of January. I still enjoy good health but the tropical climate has weakened me a little, I shall require a Summer or two to bring me about, I should not like to return to England in the winter, the weather would be too severe for me at first. I believe we shall be at Ascension again in a few week’s time, they have had sad quarrels on that Island, that is to say previous to Lt. S’s arrival, I do not know how they get on now, possibly better, you will have no reason to regret remaining in England. I am told Mrs. Stockwell is going out there. I wish her happiness. I hope yourself and my dear children are well, I long to see you. We have taken a few slavers since we first arrived on this station I cannot say what they will give us or when we shall get any thing for them, probably something will be payable by the time we return home, it will be soon enough to calculate how much I am to receive when it becomes due, therefore, I give myself no trouble about the matter. In the mean time believe me ever
My Dearest Love

Your Most Affectionate Husband
                      Thof Waters