21

5
Thursday night
Whilst I was busy trying to make my letters read straight
I was informed that Mr & Mrs & Master Brown were added
to my family. Of course I knew at once that they came for
the night. She is very sweet on Rebecca - I will not peach [preach] - but
felt strongly tempted - I understand Mr J H Couper
is at the North end. I presume I am indebted to him for
sending that unfortunate stove to Hamilton - What a
pity that said stove was not a pipe of wine - I think the
travelling to & fro would have made it prime - I only
yesterday told Mr Dunham to send to Cannons Point for it
& he had actually started a team for it this morning
when Sam sent him word it was at Hamilton - So an express
was sent after the cart - with orders to bend round to
Hamilton. Well it is here at last. But I shall have to wait
again until William returns & can direct Mr Dunham how
to put it up. Rebecca says all of her jewelry - relic's & valuables
were burnt - All of little Bell Bartows - except a few pieces R_
had on. Elizabeth seems perfectly broken hearted by her loss's
poor girls they are to be pitied - but they are better able to bear
their loss's than Mrs J. D. can her loss of house - I will add
a few lines in the morning - to give you the latest intelligence
of your precious little ones. They are both now sleeping
sweetly. I asked Willie why he slept better here than when at
Hamilton "he said "you see mother I am so scrooched up there."
Floyds cold is still very bad - almost everyone had bad colds -
Elizabeth doces Mutty with Paragoric - through the day.
I really wish you can purchase me some advice for poor
little Herbert - he has had fever all day - & his burns will not
heal - be sure & send me the Peruvian bark by the
Planter next Monday - & any advice you may be able
to get for him. Pussy thinks the turpentine Dr. Wilson ordered
has increased the sorenes - Good night my child - love
to William - dear Ira & a kiss to each of the darling children -
I will make Willie & Bob send you their kiss's tomorrow.