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Hamilton 5^th June 1852 —

My beloved Father,

I have but a few moments
but hasten to write a few lines to tell you of my
dear Mother -- She wrote you yesterday and told
you all that has passed within the last two
months at Retreat -- Her health has suffered
severely and D^r Curtis says there is no remedy
for her present state of nervous derangement
except either change of scene and climate
and after much entreaty and feeling herself that
neither mind or body can long stand such
nervousness — she has consented very reluctantly
to do as he advises and as we anxiously beg
first she thought of going alone with Mrs &
Mr Woolley who I know would do all that
is kind and in their power to take care
of her and the dear boys — But my dear
father I think you would prefer that
my husband your son in law - should be her
escort — so as he thinks the same and my
dear Mother only refuses as she fears