| Description | To her husband, Richard, whilst he was away on business at Hartlepool. However, some of the first letters are written whilst she is away in Nottinghamshire and Boulogne, France and addressed to 49 Lower Shadwell. She writes twice on Christmas Eve 1845, also enclosing a request for some "pecuniary assistance" from William Hancock of Corby Square. On 5 December 1845 two notes are also enclosed to Richard, one from Mary's sister, Eliza, and one from his daughter, Mary Silvia Soutter.
Cover family and business matters, local events and other details. Examples [transcribed from the letter before their purchase and deposit]:
'Guano fetched a very good price last week and it is expected will now find a ready sale. At Liverpool £7,15 for Ichiha. What do you mean to do about the Fame. Is it better for her to remain in the docks".
"Robert is very original...yesterday he had some sprats and wished to know if they were the large fishes babies".
"The entertainment at the Concert was much better than one could expect for the money. Parry alone was worth more. The elite of Mile End and surrounding neighbourhood were there". |