Granby May 18th 1827
Dear Brother and Sister,I received your letter last week and then intended to have given it an immedite [sic] answer but the numerous events which have engrossed my attention must be my appology. You wished me to write more particularly about the family, and all that had taken place in relation to it. Charles taught school the winter past in the north district for 9$ a month; he is now teaching in Shimuck [?] for 20$ boards himself which costs him nine shilling a week. Mary and Thomas are at home, at present; mother thinks some of having T. learn the grocers [?] trade. The property which was Fathers has all been sold; it went so low, that it did not amount to enough to pay the debths, it paid but about 75 cents on a dollar; had it gone for the real value there would probably have been 1000$ or more left. Justin bought mothers third and the buildings, Charles bought a piece of leand near here. It is painful to submit to such events, and it hardly seems possible that all this has taken place; but may we never murmur at the dispensions of Providence, but submit with christian fortitude, believing, that "whatever is, is right."
The money which you spoke of, Mother says you need not borrow; I might tell you she wanted it for Archimedes; when the farm where he lived was purchased Father gave him 100$ in the buildings, this now he must lose and mother thought she would make him some compensation; this was the reason of sending for money.
I regret that I have excited your feelings to the degree that it appears I have, when I had no such intention. I would not presume to blame you for any thing that has taken place in relation to what I wrote, it is not for me to say who has done right and who has not. I hope and trust you have intended to do nothing amiss; by the request I made I meant not to censure you for the motives which you had on entering upon the gospel ministry, for I would not doubt their sincerity, neither have I the presumption to say that we have no sinners that need quickening; like all other churches and societies we need the preached gospel. For myself I can say without flattery I like to hear you preach, if I can hear you undisturbed, but would you consider for a moment the feelings that must have been excited in a sisters bosom at the transactions that took place the last time you preached here, I think you would not censure me for making such a request. I hope you will not alter your calculations in consequence of what I have said I should be glad of the opportunity, and the privilege of hearing you preach. Do not disappoint us with regard to your visit come and stay as long as you can, you must excuse me for sending so much white paper. You will see the treasures of the east have not been unfolded in this letter. I believe I have written as many particulars as you requested, I therefore close by subscribing myself your ever affectionate sister,
Lucy.
Our respects to enquiring friends.