July 1[0]th 1811
My dear husband
Supposing you now to have arrived in B., I am extremely solicitous to hear how your voyage went on and whether you are well and likely to return soon. Indeed I can illy spare you from home, for I think I am growing more good-for-nothing every day. Nothing can reconcile me to your absence but the belief that you are promoting your interest thereby.
I have been close at home ever since you left me, and have no desire for company; however, I cou’d not get over inviting the girls from Mr. Lowes’ who are to be here this eveng. I had much rather be alone, but they appear’d bent on coming. I am resolv’d if possible to consult both the health of my body corporal and body economic by withdrawing decently from the continual round of expensive entertainment which some how or other we have gotten into.
Elizabeth has been rather unwell last week but seems somewhat better today. She has worms and is a little bilious; however, Russum, I am told has sent to B-e for a fresh supply and is to set up a house for scalding and water drinking again. I thou’t it wou’d come to this at last. When you