From Thomas Waters Sr. to his wife Elizabeth Waters (September 29, 1840)

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

Addressed to Mrs Capt.Waters R.M., Royal Marines, King Street, Woolwich

Birmingham 29 Sept.1840

My dear Wife,

I have this morning received from you 3 lbs Cocoa, 4 Apples, my Sister’s letter, (which I return after having been gratified with its perusal,) and 1 live Earwig.  I am right glad you have settled with Dr.Butler, and if you want medical assistance you had better apply to Dr.Parkin who will be sure to supply you with what is necessary-  The rent is paid and that is a good thing.  As for your sick house, I am exceedingly sorry for it, it pleases the Almighty to try your Patience and your Fortitude, for upon that now depends the Welfare of our family, it also calls your abilities into action, what with one servant’s being upon the point of leaving, and your being disapointed in the expectation of another, apparently, good one joining, however as I have said before now, in Providence is all our trust, Where God sends affliction He will send help.  I am gratified with my Sister’s commendation of Mary’s “plain, unaffected stile of Letter writing”, it is a compliment that pleases me much, when Mary writes again to my Sister, request her to make my kind regards to my Sister-

Make my best love to all my dear Children and believe me ever most affectionately yours

Tho^s. Waters