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Letters from James Hyslop
To his brother, Simon Hyslop, merchant in Langholm.
Cape of Good Hope: Simon's Bay 3rd August l796
Dear Brother,
I have embraced the earliest opportunity of informing you of our safe arrival at the Cape in perfect health, thank God, and hope this will find you all enjoying the same invaluable blessing. We had a very pleasant voyage of 82 days. We sailed from Spithead on Sunday, 1st May, and arrived here on Thursday the 2lst July. There was nothing remarkable happened on the voyage. We fell in with several Merchant vessels but they all proved to be neutral ones. We were all very happy on our arrival here in finding it still in the possession of the English, not sure but the Dutch fleet which was said to have sailed before us might have retaken it again. It is a very mountainous uncultivated country about S. Bay, with very few inhabitants, the natives are of a copper colour, the hills are all covered with low Shrubbery Bushes and all sorts of fine flowers which give the air most delicious flavour when walking amongst them.
There are only a few houses at S. Bay, inhabited by Dutch people. Their houses are very neat and clean, the natives are all as slaves to them. This is the securest place for the Shipping to lie in winter. (It was the Spring when we arrived here). We expect soon to go to Table Bay on the other side of the Cape, which is a much more fruitful place. There are plenty of oranges, lemons and other fruit growing here. Cape Town is nigh Table Bay. Provisions are very reasonable here, Beef and Mutton is 2d per lb, the sheep here are much like the English Mug-Sheep, except their tail which is remarkably large; at the root it is a foot broad and turns quite small towards the tip. They work mostly with Oxen instead of Horses, generally ten or twelve in a wagon. Fish of all sorts are plentiful here. I have the pleasure of seeing Dr. Smith frequently here. When I lived with Mr. Stothart, he had his shop at John Young's,Townfoot, he is Surgeon on the Monarch. The Jupiter with the East India Convoy arrived safe here the day after we arrived. She sailed three weeks before us but was becalmed all that time on the Line, and we had a very good breeze in crossing it. I cannot inform you how long we shall stay at the Cape, but I rather think we shall go to India before we return.
I wish I had a letter of recommendation from Admiral Pasley to Admiral Pringle as there are very little hopes of preferment without interest. If you could mention it to the Miss Littles to speak to their uncle or to Mrs. Malcolm I think it could be got, but I will leave it entirely to you to act as you think proper.
Give my kind compliments to Mr. Jamieson when he comes to Langholm. Remember me to Uncle Simon's family, Thomas', James's, Uncle Thomas Murray, Robert Howatson's family, Wm. Brown, Milntown, Jane Walker and all enquiring friends. Write soon and direct to me H.M.S. Tremendous, Cape of Good Hope or elsewhere.
I remain Dear Brother,
Your affectionate brother. James Hyslop
PS. The Trident is just arrived safe here with her convoy. Wine here is sold at 4d and 6d a bottle.
"Hope", Cape of Good Hope, 20th Nov. 1798.
Dear Brother.
I received yours on the 3rd November per the Buffalo, dated the 2lst March, 1798, which gave me a great deal of pleasure to hear you were then all well, as I am at present, thank God. I now embrace the opportunity by H.M.S. Stately who is to sail for England with Lord Macartney. I wrote last by the "Crescent", (10th March), since which nothing material has happened.
We have been twice at St. Helena since with Despatches to the Governor. It is a small island about 21 miles in circumference and belongs to the E I Company. It appears from the sea an entire rock, but in the enclosed parts there are some very fertile valleys; it produces vegetables and fruits of all kinds, but no grain as the vast number of rats which harbour in the rocks destroy it. It is not much inferior in strength (if any) to Gibralter. They have always seven years of provisions on the island for the Garrison in case of siege. His Majesty's ship, "Garland", was out on a cruise and was unfortunately lost on the island of Madagascar, but happily the crew were all saved. The Admiral's son was on Board of her. The "Star" Brig was sent to fetch the crew off and should have been here a month ago, it is thought she is taken by some of the French Privateers. The Admiral is in a very poor state of health, I believe he will return to England shortly, the anxiety for his son makes him worse. I still remain in the Hope. The Purser of the S, Oiscarr was invalided a few weeks ago. The Admiral appointed one of his clerks to her; if Admiral Pringle had been here I make no doubt but he would have promoted me. I wish Admiral Pasley would again recommend me to some of his friends. When we were at St. Helena we detained a ship under American Colours and sent her to the Cape in June '98. She has never been heard of since. I believe she would have been a very good prize. It is thought she is lost.
I am glad to hear that Langholm is grown such a flourishing place in the Manufacturing trade. Give my kind love to brother Walter, Nanny and all the children, my Uncles and Aunts and Charles Pasley, let me know in your next what he is doing. If we go to India I shall be very happy to see Thomas Little. Dear Brother, write every opportunity as there is nothing gives me more pleasure than to hear from you. Remember me to Mr. Jamieson and let me know if he keeps his health very well. I shall always be happy to hear of his welfare for his kindness to me when in London.
I remain
Dear Brother
Yours J .Hyslop.
Deptford, "Camel", 11th August 1800.
Dear Simon,
With pleasure I received yours and am extremely happy to hear that you were all well. I am much afraid that I shall not have the opportunity of seeing you at this time. The "Camel" is gone into Dock a few days ago. She is ordered to be refitted as fast as possible and it is reported she is going out to the Cape again. Since my arrival I have been in town and have been very much put about in procuring an Agent, and am sorry to say I am not quite fixed yet. I have not received any pay since I have been made Purser, as a Purser cannot receive any till he pass his accounts. I have delivered in all my Books and papers for the Hope into the Victualling Office, and am informed it will be two years before my turn comes, as there are so many accounts before me. I don't know how I shall do for money to carry on, until my accounts are passed. The Navy Board requires two securities of about £l50 each. I wrote to Mr. Jamieson to see if he would be my security (as he offered before when I was in London). I received for answer that as I was in a seafaring line and exposed to many dangers, he did not wish to engage. If I had been on shore he would not have had any objections. He also wanted to know the nature of the Bond, which I wrote him, but have not yet had his answer. The nature of the Bond is to secure the Crown from all loss that may arise from the neglect or improper conduct of the Purser, in case the ship is lost, or taken by an enemy, the Bond is then annulled.
You were wanting to know the particulars of Capt. Aylmer's behaviour to me. When I joined the Tremendous he promised to make me his clerk and rate me Midshipman, (his Steward was rated Clerk). About a week after we sailed from England for the Cape he disrated me from Midshipman to Able seaman and did not make me clerk as he promised. I remained so till he left the ship. As soon as Capt. Brisbane joined the Tremendous he again rated me Midshipman and behaved with a great deal of civility to me during the time I remained on Board.
I waited upon Mr. John and Charles Pasley. I had the pleasure of seeing the Miss Littles and Miss Malcolm. The Admiral's daughter was there likewise. She is going to be married shortly. The Admiral is expected in Town shortly; both the Miss Littles have promised to speak to him in my behalf. They wished me very much to write to the Admiral again, which I did and have received for answer :-
Sir, I have received your letter of the 2nd Inst. in which you solicit my assistance to procure you a ship of a higher rate. I remember your mother well and had a great regard for her and therefore I should be glad to render you any service in my power, but at present I am so particularly situated by prior applications that I cannot do you any Service. If the Camel (as you seem to import) is again ordered to the Cape I can recommend you strongly to the Admiral who commands there and when you return it may be more in my power than it is at present.
I am, Sir, Yours etc.
T. P.
I was very sorry to hear of the death of Uncle James. I had a letter from S.Little a few days ago dated off Brest Harbour, he is very well. I am sorry to hear of the death of Mr. Irving and daughter. Does George carry on the business as usual? The Miss Littles were asking very kindly after you and Uncle Simon's family and desired to be remembered to you and them. Write me soon with all the news etc.
I remain etc.
J. Hyslop
"Camel" at Deptford, l3th October 1800
Dear Brother,
I have just received your kind letter enclosing me a Draft on London for Twenty Pounds; I am much obliged to you for your attention. I do assure you it came very seasonable. I see Thomas Telfer is as kind and obliging as ever.
I am very glad to hear you are all well, as I am at present. It will be three weeks or a month before the "Camel" comes out of Dock. I dare say it will be near Christmas before we are ready for sea. I am afraid we are going out again to the Cape. I have secured two securities for the Connel at last the persons you don't know, the one is a Mr. Lisson, Surgeon in London, the other a Mr. Pothergill in the Bank of England. I could not think of asking Mr. John Pasley after refusing me in l795. He is a very good man if you do not touch his purse.
I have likewise procured an agent, but he will not advance me any money until my Accounts are passed, without finding him security. Since my last to you I have written to Lord Spencer stating to him my servitude etc in the Navy. I received for answer from Mr. Harrison, his private secretary that his Lordship would be glad to see Testimonials of my Character from the Captains I have sailed with, up to the present time. I immediately wrote to Captains Granger and Brine. I received by return of post a letter from Capt. Granger and a certificate from Capt. Brine. (A copy of both I have sent you.) Capt. Lee desired me to write out any certificate I pleased and he would sign it. I enclosed them to his Lordship and received for answer from Mr. Harrison saying that his Lordship had set down my name on his list of candidates for advancement in my line of service, but that his Lordship could not give me immediate expectation of it. I am afraid his Lordship's list of candidates is a very long one. I have now done all I can. I must wait with patience the event and trust the rest to Providence.
There was a very dreadful fire broke out at Wapping this day week which consumed a great many houses and several lives are said to be lost. I happened to be going up the town at the time. I passed it about 9 o'clock in the morning, it was then raging with great fury. It had just then caught hold of a very large Cooperage where was a great quantity of Wood Hoops and Stores. It continued burning till next morning when it was got under. It was a most shocking scene to see. There was a great number of Fire Engines but the lanes were so narrow they had not room to play on the fire. The loss is computed to be about Two hundred thousand pounds.
A Copy of Capt. Granger's Letter
Dear Hyslop, Yours of the 9th Inst. I have just received and according to your request have returned you an answer. Likewise I have left blank paper sufficient for you to fill up the certificate and have to request that you will let it be as handsome a one as possible, for you are most undoubtedly entitled to it. I would have done it myself, but from not exactly knowing the whole form have therefore only put my signature. I am in hopes of getting a ship soon and should I be able to make interest enough to get you with me, I dare say you will have no objections; at some time it would give me much pleasure. I hope my worthy friend Capt. Lee is well. I have been in expectation of hearing from him, tell him I wrote about three weeks since requesting a little Cape news. Brine I find came home with you. Poor Mrs. Linzee I am sorry to see by the papers is dead. Mr. Fullerton tells me that the L'Oisea was found to be in a much better state than expected and is to be kept in Commission. I have to return your thanks for the very correct manner in which you kept everything that was necessary for my Agent passing my Accounts. They have passed for some time and I have received my pay.
I remain Dear Hyslop,
Yours truly
Wm. Granger (signed)
I do hereby certify that the conduct of Mr. James Hyslop ( during the time of my commanding H.M. Sloop Hope from the 27th day of November 1797 to the 9th day of August 1799) was such as to merit my entire satisfaction whether in his official capacity as a Purser, or a Gentleman, and I do further certify that I received a good character of him from his former Captain.
Given under my hand this 1th day of September, 1800
(Signed) Augt. Brine ,
Both Capt. Granger and Brine are unemployed at present. I hope they will soon get a ship each, for they are both two worthy young men. Granger is in hopes of getting one soon. I hope I will get again with him. Write me soon with all the news about Langholm as every little trifling thing from that quarter gives me pleasure. Give my Compliments to John, Walter, Nanny and all the children and all enquiring friends.
I remain Dear Simon Your affectionate brother
J. Hyslop.
The following letter from Walter, James's younger brother is addressed to Mr. Simon Hyslop, Merchant, Langholm, by Carlisle, England.
Kingston. 1st. February 1802.
Dear Brother
I now take this opportunity of letting you know that I have got well to Kingston after a long passage of 69 days. We sailed from Liverpool on the 26 September in company with another ship called the Mary Anne, but we parted company that same night in a gale of wind and never saw her afterwards. When we got to Madeira we heard that she had been there but sailed the day before our arrival. We had very coarse weather for three weeks after we left Liverpool, very high winds and much rain and which was worse the wind contrary the whole time. We were a long time in the Bay of Biscay which is a bad place for Privateers. We saw two or three that was supposed to be such, but they never durst come within 5 or 6 leagues as our ship had so much the appearance of a Frigate.
October 19 we spoke to an English Frigate who told us it was peace which was not believed by none of the ship's company as we had then only been three weeks out. Next day we spoke to one under Russian colours, had been 15 days from Plymouth bound for Lisbon who told us the same.
We arrived Madeira October 24 and took on 80 pipes of wine and unloaded coals. I can give little or no account of Madeira as there was none of us never was ashore. We lay about two miles from the wharf and the wine came all to us in boats. It appears to be a very fertile place for Fruits of all kinds, but it is a very mountainous country any that we saw of it and Bushes green on the top of the mountains. We sailed from Madeira Nov.4 and had a very pleasant passage to Kingston of 31 days. We neither had a gale of wind nor a shower of rain but we had plenty before.
I am now engaged with a Master in Kingston for 12 months for £100 Currency. Bed, Board and Washing and am now working about 3 miles in the country which is a very good thing for one when they first come to the place until they get seasoned to the place.
The man I am with is from Hull in Yorkshire. Has been here for 16 years. He has another white man besides myself and 27 Negroes all his own. I am mostly at the country myself with 10 or sometimes 12 of the Negroes. The work is very easy as the Negroes does all the coarse work and the hours we work is from 7 in the morning till 4 in the afternoon which is the hour we dine but has what we call first and second breakfast at 8 and 2
Captain Turnbull behaved to me more like a brother than a man I had never seen. Although I wrought my passage I did almost nothing unless assisting the Carpenter sometimes in the day and kept no watch in the night. He said he would excuse me as Joiners was not used to being out of bed in the night. When we got to Kingston he told me to make the ship my home and not leave her till I got a Master, for I would find it very expensive living ashore, which I thought very kind of him. Living is very high here. One cannot go to a common lodging house and get a tea breakfast under 5 shillings and every other thing as dear in proportion.
I hear James is sailed for England about a fortnight ago. Although we were within 6 miles of one another for 5 weeks I could never find him out, until I heard he had been at the wharf where our ship lay enquiring for me, but she was gone before that and there was none could give him any account of me. As soon as I heard I took a boat and went down to Port Royal, a distance of 6 miles, where all the King's ships are lying and enquired among them. I found he had been on board La Topaze Frigate but had left her only two days before and was sailed for (blank) which I was so much disappointed. Ask the name of the ship he has gone on and when you write let me know.
I have now been here 8 weeks and I thank God has kept my health very well. This is a good place for a tradesman if he keeps his health but if sick he will get very few visits from a Doctor for at £20 or£30 their bills come very high. Dear Simon, you will no doubt think I have been very careless to be two months without writing but being in the country I missed the first Packet and it only goes once a month. I hope you will not be so long in writing after you receive this. Let me know all the news from Langholm. I hear you have got the Meal and every other thing is very cheap.
Let me know if there are any of my old acquaintances in town or country has got married this Winter. I like this place very well and has got a very agreeable man for a Master and plenty of good meat and drink. I find no inconvenience at all from the heat although I believe this is the coolest time of the year.
Give my compliments to John, Nanny and the children and all enquiring friends. You may let John Thompson know that I have forwarded his son Johns letter as soon as I landed here, which I hope he would receive as it is no great distance from here. Let me know if William T. is still in Liverpool yet. When I parted with him he told me not to write to him as he would not be in Liverpool. He intended coming to Jamaica in the spring. If he is not gone give him my Direction as I would be very happy to meet him here. You may continue me on the Friendly Society if the time is not out before you receive this. I hope I shall not stand much in need of it but if I should I have got no Articles. If you could send that single Article that speaks of a member being abroad it might be done with little trouble.
Which is all from your affectionate brother,
W. Hyslop
When you write direct to me to the care of Mr. Robert Soadon, Carpenter. Rosemary Lane. Kingston. Jamaica.
Caen in Normandy. 19th December 1803.
Dear Brother,
Before this you will no doubt have heard of our unfortunate shipwreck, which happened on the 1th December at ¼ past 8 in the evening near La Hogue. We were immediately marched from La Hogue to this place where we arrived on the 17th, we begin our march again on Friday for Verdun where we are to remain, the Minerve's officers are there.
Thank God I have kept my health very well and am happy to say we are treated very civilly. I hope it will not be long before there is an exchange of Prisoners. Give my compliments to Brother John, Nanny and all our friends and tell them not to be the least uneasy about me as I am as comfortable as the circumstances of the case will permit.
Mr. Bell has written to his brother in London desiring him to mention in the Papers that all the Officers are well. I remain,
Dear Brother,
Your affectionate brother, J. Hyslop.
Verdun. 25th January, 1804.
Dear Brother,
I wrote you on the 19th December from Caen, which I hope you have received safe. We set off next day and arrived here the 10th January, in very good health thank God. There is about 400 English Prisoners here, viz. Officers of Men of War, Masters of Merchantmen and Gentlemen that were detained in France at the time the war broke out; the sailors are all at Valenciennes of Sedan.
Thank God, I never had my health better in my life and is as comfortable as we can expect, considering being Prisoners. We have the liberty of walking a league round the town, by applying to the General for leave to go out at the gates. I have not troubled him as yet, having had walking enough lately. We marched between 4 & 500 miles, my poor feet was in a sad pickle the first two or three days. We had continual rain the first 14 days which made the roads very bad; we were over the tops of our shoes every step. We stopped at Caen five days; by that time my feet got quite well again and continued so to the end of our journey. Before we got to our journey's end I thought no more of 26 or 28 miles a day than I used to think of going over to the Kerr. When I return again to England, I mean to save the expense of coach hire by walking from London to Langholm.
Let me hear from you as soon as you receive this with all the news and what are become of the houses, if they are sold or not. Give my kind compliments to Brother John, Nanny and children and all our friends. Let me know when you heard from Walter if he was well. When you write, direct to me, English Prisoner at Verdun, Department of the Meuse, and enclose it in a cover to Monsr. Perriguex. [Perregaux] Banker, Paris and pay the inland postage. Let me know what is become of Walter Corrie, he may think himself very fortunate he did not get into the Shannon. Remember me to all enquiring friends.
I remain,
Your affectionate Brother,
J. Hyslop
When you see Mr. Bell you may let him know his brother is very well.
Verdun. 2nd May 1804.
Dear Brother,
Yours of the 14th March I have just received which gives me great pleasure to find you were then all well, as I am at present, thank God. I am likewise happy to hear that Walter was well by the last account, and that Nanny and my little namesake are doing well. The houses are very long in being sold. I am very sorry I cannot lend you any assistance in respect to the purchasing of them, having been so very unfortunate lately. Has John got the garden finished yet ? I am sorry I cannot lend him a hand with it this season. I little thought this time twelvemonth I should be here working in the garden. The people with whom I lodge have got a fine large Garden with all sorts of fruit. I spend a good deal of my time in it. Mr. Bell and I lodge both in one house, the people are remarkably civil. We have been very fortunate in respect to lodgings. When you see or write to Mr. Bell you may let him know his brother is very well. It is a famous wine country about Verdun, the town is surrounded with vineyards. The wine is very reasonable here, altho' they have had but very indifferent crops these two or three years past. There is every appearance at present of a plentiful crop. We have horse races two or three times a month, made by the English gentlemen here. I belong to a club which consists of 120 members, we have all the French papers, the "Argus", an English paper printed in Paris, with all the periodical publications etc, upon the whole the time passes away very pleasantly.
There is an English lady here at present who married a Mr. Rudden. I believe she is a distant relative of Mr. Ma1colm's family, her maiden name is Petrie, she married in India.
Let me hear from you soon with all the news about Langholm and how the manufactories come on, and if Alexr. Howatson has sold all the muslin and if he lost much by it. Let me know if Capt. Pultney and Charles Malcolm are employed. Give my compliments to Brother John, Nanny children and all our friends. I am sorry to hear that S. Murray is not any better yet. Direct to me English Prisoner, Verdun, Department of the Meuse, France and pay the inland postage. You need not enclose it to Mr. Periguex. Remember me to all enquiring friends. Ask Nanny how she would like a French lady for a sister.
I remain, Dear Simon,
Your affectionate brother,
J. Hyslop
Verdun. 10th October 1804.
Dear Brother,
I again embrace the opportunity of writing to you. I wrote to you on the 2nd May, but have not had an answer. The last I had from you was dated the 14th March. I am very well at present, thank God, and will be happy to hear you and all friends are the same. For the future you must write me every six weeks, or two months at most, and not wait for answers, the conveyance is so very irregular; and I will do the same. If you have received mine of the 2nd May answer it again as I dare say the other is lost. What sort of crops have you had in the North ? Have they been good in general ? When did you hear from Walter? Is he likely to remain in Jamaica for some time? What wages has he now?
I hope John has been very busy this summer, what new houses has he built? They have just begun the Vintage here, it is remarkably good, they have not had such a one since '85. The wine is fallen full two thirds since our arrival in France. We have very excellent old wine for sixpence a bottle. The Lady with whom we lodge will have about thirty pieces this year, each piece runs about 19 doz. Last year she had only half a piece and for several years past not more than six or seven pieces.
Mr. Bell, Mr. Eckford, Marine Officer, and myself have messed together ever since we came here, and about a week ago we had a new messmatejoined us, which was Mrs. Eckford from England. She was only 14 days from Gravesend. She is a very pleasant young Lady, it will be much more pleasant for us to have a lady to manage matters, although' we made it out very well before as Mr. Eckford's servant was a very good cook and managed matters very well. Mr. E. was quite surprised as he had a letter from her a short while before saying she could not procure passports.
There was a Mrs. Bruce, (a Captain of a Merchantman's Lady) came over with her. Let me know if Walter Corrie is still in the Leopard and if he is likely to get forward in the service. Poor fellow he was very unfortunate at first setting out. I hope he will be more fortunate for the future. Write me a long letter with all the news about Langholm, Deaths, Births and Marriages etc. Give my compliments to Brother John, Nanny and Children, all our friends at the Kerr, Auchenrivock, Hag, Terrona, Carrickrigg and let me know how Simon Murray is. I hope he is quite well again. Remember me likewise to the Revd. Messrs. Martin and Jardine, Dr. Moffat, Col. Murray, Dr. Douglas, Robert Howatson and John Hotson's family and Mr. and Mrs. Brown, Milntown, the Goodwife, Mrs. Laidlay, James Carruthers' family and all enquiring friends.
I remain Dear Brother,
Your affectionate brother, J. Hyslop
Direct to me "English Prisoner at Verdun, Department of the Meuse, France" you need not enclose it to Mr. Perigeux.
Verdun. May 9th 1805
Dear Brother,
I dare say you will be surprised at not hearing from before this. I delayed it on account of a report we have had here for some time past of a speedy exchange. I assure you I expected to be in England before this, but now I am afraid it is all at an end. I think now there is every prospect of remaining here during the War.
I am quite busy at present working in the Garden, as you must know we have hired one for the season, gardening is quite the rage amongst the English at present. I should be very happy not to be allowed to remain to enjoy the fruits of our labour. We have got plenty of fruit trees, berry bushes and vines in it. You may be looking out for a pipe of wine by and by.
You may tell Nanny when I return I will teach her to cook some nice delicate French dishes; there is one in particular which I have eaten frequently, and which I dare say she will like very much, it is made from an animal called Grenouille*, besides a number of more dishes quite as nice and savoury.
When did you hear from Walter? I hope he is well. When you write remember me to him. Let me know what are his wages now, if he has had them advanced lately. In your last you said you did not wish to write often for the postage, not knowing how I was off for money. I am happy to say I am very well off in that respect, as the Admiralty has given permission to all the Officers whilst prisoners to draw their personal pay, that, together with the French #pay does pretty well, so I hope you will not let that be a hindrance for the future, as it always gives me great pleasure to hear from you.
I hope you and all friends have been well since I heard from you last. What prospects has John this season? Will he have plenty of work? In my last letters I desired you to let me know how John and Alex. Howatson came on with the muslin, you had either overlooked it or forgot to mention it in your last. In your next let me know all about it. Give my compliments to John, Nanny and the children. I hope the children has been very good since I went away. Tell them if I hear they have I will bring them something very fine when I return from France. I hope to find them all good scholars. Remember me to all enquiring friends,
I remain, Dear Brother.
Yours, J. Hyslop
PS I have received a letter from W. Corrie .
*Frogs #37½Livers, a Liver is 10d.
Verdun. 9th. October, 1805
Dear Brother,
Yours of the 12th. June came safe to hand, by which I am happy to find you were then all well as I am at present. It is currently reported that the Prisoners of War are to be sent to another depot, but where I know not, some say Lille, others Cambrai, but it is all conjecture.
There was about a hundred detenus sent to Valenciennes last week, they only had one days notice, so I suppose we shall be sent off with as little, but not to be taken unawares I have got my marching Shoes and Knapsack etc put in order, so that I may be able to march at a moments notice. Oh, I wish it were to England. We are in great hopes that the Continental War will bring about an exchange.
We have had famous races this last summer. An English gentleman here (Mr. Hume) got a fine English blood horse; another gentleman (Mr. Gold) laid Mr. H. a wager of one thousand pounds last May, that he would find a horse before the 5th. Sept. that would beat Mr. H's. Mr. Gold got one before the day appointed - during the interval there were bets laid to the amount of four thousand pounds. There were several Ladies and Gentlemen from Paris to see this famous race. There were betwixt 70 and 80 carriages on the race course. Mr. Gold lost the wager. The summer has been very wet and cold, there will be very little wine this season in consequence of it.
You sent me a famous budget of news last letter, some of which you thought you had mentioned before, but you had not. Tell Mary Hyslop I was sorry I had not the pleasure of dancing at her wedding. I was glad to hear that Walter was well the last letter you had from him, remember me kindly to him when you write.
I am sorry to hear Simon Murray is never any better. Write me soon and direct as usual, if we are gone from Verdun it will be forwarded to me. As we are likely to be separated from the detained, say "English Prisoner of War". Remember me kindly to Brother John, Nanny and the children and all enquiring friends.
I remain, Dear Simon, Your affectionate brother, J. Hyslop
P.S. John was wanting to know how much I put into the manufactory. I think it was £:30 for he and I.
Verdun. l4th. April, 1806
Dear Simon,
I am happy to find by yours of the 10th January that you have purchased the shop etc. I wish you had bought the whole of the Property, however I am glad you have got what you have. I am sorry it is not in my power to assist you in paying for it. I am glad to hear that you and all friends are well, as I am at present, thank God. I am happy to hear that Walter keeps his health so well, he must be well seasoned now to the climate. Give my love to him when you write again. I am sorry to hear of the deaths you mention in your last, Particularly Simon Murray's. I am much surprised to find Nathan Linton and I. Hope married at last after putting it off so long. It is a pity they had not married at first. We have been amused again with the hopes of an Exchange but I am afraid it will turn out as before. If the Ministry should fail in the attempt this time, I think we may set ourselves down quietly here during the War, and which has every appearance to be of a long duration.
You were wanting to know how I come on with the French language. I am ashamed to own I have not made such progress as I ought to have done for the time I have been here. I can read it pretty well but cannot speak it so fluently as I could wish. It is rather difficult to speak it as the idiom of the language is so different from ours. I am much afraid I shall be quite master of it before we leave this country. I don't suppose Maddy has had much opportunity of being at school since I left Langholm as Nanny cannot spare her. I should be very glad to pay half, and I dare say you will have no objections to pay the other half, to hire a girl to assist Nanny, that she may be able to get to school, as I dare say she wants it very much. If you agree to it, let it be done immediately and let her attend both reading and sewing school for a year at least.
I have never heard from Mrs. Scott, Forge, yet. I don't suppose she will write now. If any of the Richardsons should arrive in the County, you'll not forget to mention their nephew to them. If you should hear any account of the young man's father let me know. Inform me how the Manufactories goes on at Langholm, if they are going briskly or if the war has put a stop to them, and how the Woollen Manufactory goes on and who has bought it. Remember me kindly to Brother John, Nanny and the children, to all our friends at the Kerr, Crofthead, Hagg, Terrona, Carrickrig, Middlebyhill, to the Revd. Messrs. Martin and Jardine, Doctors Moffat and Douglas, the Goodwife, Milntown family, James Carruthers and family, Mrs. Laidlaw, Mrs.Moffat and family, John Byers, etc. etc. and all enquiring friends. If you see any of Mr. Bell's friends you may let them know he is very well. The Hon. Mr. Eardley has got leave to return to England, he left Verdun about a week ago. Let me know who has got the Post Office.
I remain, Dear Simon, your affectionate brother, J. Hyslop
Verdun. 28th February, l807
Dear Brother,
As the communication has been shut for some time, I have neither had the opportunity of writing or hearing from you. I now embrace the opportunity by a Lady who has got leave to return to England. I am happy to say I have had my health very well since I wrote you last, and would be glad to find you have all enjoyed the same.
I have not had a letter from you since the 10th January 1806. I should have been very uneasy if I had not received a letter from Mr. Corrie the 18th October last who mentioned you were then all well. My last letters to you were the 13th April and 9th August 1806 which I hope you received. Yours I suppose must have miscarried.
I would be happy to hear from you, but as there will be no other conveyance but through the Transport Board, you must write me through that channel and if Simon Little is in London you might enclose it to him, (paying the postage) and desire him to give it in to the office, but if he is not in London, I daresay Mr. Wm. Moffat or Mr. Simon Irving would think it no trouble to convey one to the office for me.
I have been obliged to write on half a sheet as the Lady has a great many letters, and have been obliged likewise to leave it open. I hope Walter was well when you heard from him last, when you write remember me to him. I have no news to write you, everything going on as usual. Give my compliments to John, Nanny children and all enquiring friends.
I remain, Your affectionate Brother, J. Hyslop.
Verdun. 29th.April, 18ll
My Dear Brother
I cannot let slip the opportunity that offers by a gentleman returning to England, of writing you a few lines to inform you of my being in perfect health, thanks be to God for it. And I need not add how happy I should be to hear from you, and of you all being in good health.
I have not had the pleasure of a letter from you since 10th October 1808. Since that time I have written several viz; on the 7th November 1808, the 14th June 1809, the 16th February and the 16th November 1810 and perhaps you have been as unfortunate in not receiving them as I have. I might have remained ignorant of the death of our dear Brother, if I had not been fortunate in receiving a letter from a correspondent in Langholm, dated 29th October 1810, which letter I answered 14th June 1811, being the first opportunity that offered.
Notwithstanding that all your letters have miscarried, you must continue to write me from time to time. Perhaps I may be more fortunate in future. When did you hear from Brother Walter? I hope he was well. Give my kind love to our sister and all the children. When you write Walter remember me to him. Remember me to all enquiring friends.
I remain, Your affectionate brother, J. Hyslop
P.S. I am both stinted to paper and time as I didn't know of his going till a little before.
Verdun. 18th April, 1812
My Dear Brother
I again embrace the opportunity of writing you by a Gentleman (Captain Blair) who has just received his passport for England. I am happy to say that I continue to enjoy a good state of health, which is a blessing and one for which I have great reason to be thankful to Almighty God; and it would give me great pleasure to find that you all continue to enjoy the same. As you must have laid out a great deal of money in assisting our sister and children, I have enclosed you a small Navy Bill for Nine pounds Eleven Shillings which I hope you will receive safe, and place the same to my credit, and if there be any balance remaining (which if there is it must be very small) let it be laid out in the education of the children etc. The communication being so very difficult, I have drawn the Bills in Triplicate; the second and third I will send you by other conveyances and whichever of the three you receive first, negociate it, and keep the others by you, do not pay them away. As soon as you receive this write me and acknowledge receipt of the Bill. Perhaps you may not have an opportunity of sending it to Mr. Corrie, enclose it to the Commissioners of the Transport Board and pay the postage. Mention it in every letter you write me until you know that I have received one from you.
I hope you have received a letter from Brother Walter since you wrote me last. I would be very happy to hear that he is in good health, when you write to him remember me kindly I wrote you on the 26th of January by Dr. Gold, which I hope you received safe, acknowledging the receipt of your letter of the 26th August 1811, as well as one from Mr. Corrie at the same time.
I regret much that I have not in my power to be of more assistance to our sister and the children, on that account it falls very heavy upon you; but I trust that our Exchange may soon take place and then I hope I will be enabled to be of some service to them. In the meantime you must not let them want for anything and you must keep an exact account of what you do lay out, that I may pay you my share, which 1 will do as soon as I am able, for the only way that we can show our love to the memory of our deceased brother is to take care of his poor widow and children. And by all means pay great attention to the morals of the children, and make them keep holy the Lord's Day, and not let them run playing about the streets, but make them attend Church or Meeting House regular.
I have just received a letter from Mr. Corrie, dated Guernsey the 19th February and am extremely happy to find he has had letters from Langholm of a late date and that all friends are well. He mentions the death of the Duke of Buccleugh, Sir J. Johnstone of Westerhall and Mrs. Malcolm. Who was Sir J. Johnstone? Has he left a family? Let me know where Walter is settled, whether at Kingston or in the country. Write me both through the Transport Board and Mr. Corrie. Give my kind love to sister and children, to Magdalen and her husband and all enquiring friends.
I remain Your affectionate brother. J. Hyslop.
PS. If I should hear of your having received the first Bill of Exchange, I will not send the second and third. After I had finished my letter I found that Capt. Blair was disappointed of his passport, so I was obliged to keep it until now. It is by a Lady who is returning to England that I send it. Verdun 26th June 1812
Verdun. 7th April, l8l3.
My dear Brother,
Having I hope a safe opportunity, I embrace it of sending the Navy Bill for £9. 11/- to our sister, which I promised and which I trust you will receive safe. I wrote you on the 28th. October and 29th January both of which I hope you have received. Yours of the 28th October I received a fortnight ago but that of the 29th August I am afraid is lost. When I have another safe opportunity I will send you my second of exchange, of the same tenor and date, for fear the first should miscarry, unless I hear from you to the contrary.
I am very glad to hear the good account you give of all the boys and that they are obedient to their mother. I hope the Almighty will give them grace to continue always so, tell them I will not forget them when I return for it. I send this by Mrs. Lambert, wife of our last Lieut. (an English Lady he married here) who is going over to England to settle the affairs of Mr. Lambert's brother who died lately, She expects to return to Verdun in six or eight weeks. She has promised to bring any letters for me, so will you write me about a month after you receive this letter and address it to me at No. 10 John Street, Adelphi, London. I have given my Agent directions to receive my letters and send them by her. When you write always mention the date of the letters you receive but never the person's name they come by, for all the letters we send are obliged to be censored or else they would be taken from them. Make the boys write me a few lines in your letter, that I may see if they write well and I hope they will be particular and tell me all the news, never mind how trifling they are, for I like to hear all that is going on about Langholm; give me leave to tell you that you are a very poor newsmonger yourself. There were some things I desired you to let me know in my former letters which I suppose you answered in your letter that was lost. Look over my letters again if you have not destroyed them and answer me these questions. In future always repeat anything I wish to know because there are so many letters lost. Let me know if the Bill I sent you last year paid what I owed you or not and how much you pay yearly to the Friendly Society.
I hope you have heard from brother Walter and that he was in good health, when you write him give my kind love to him. Will you send me his address? If I have an opportunity I will write him. Let me know the name of the Captain and likewise the ship's name that carried him out to Jamaica. I remember in one of your letters you mentioned the Captain's very kind behaviour to Walter, both on the passage out and at Jamaica. If ever I should meet with him I would wish to pay him every attention in my power. Perhaps I may fall in with him but I sincerely hope it may not be in this country. I am happy to tell you that since I began my letter the post has brought me yours of the 29th August. I find that you have anticipated my wishes in making Robert write me a few lines. I am glad to see he writes so well, and likewise his spelling. I hope you will make them pay great attention to their orthography for bad spelling looks much worse than bad writing. You say that Robert studies Geography a good deal. I am very glad to hear it. I hope you will endeavour to get him books that he may improve himself. I wish I could get the History of England and Scotland for them to read for it is very necessary first to read or study the history of our own country. Be particular that no bad books fall into their hands, that may tend to corrupt their morals . If there be any particular books they want to read, and if you approve of their choice, will you buy them for them and I will pay you.
Let me know if Mrs. Moffat, Garwald, be still alive and well and if John and William are married yet. Remember me in the kindest manner to them all and likewise to the Revd. Mr. Brown and family at the Manse. I am very glad to hear that my worthy friend Mr. J. Byers is well, remember me to him likewise. Give my best wishes to sister and children, to Magdalen and husband, and all our friends at the Kerr, Auchenrivock, Terrona, Uncle William Murray and family, (I have forgot the name of the place where he lives), Blackcroft, Peggy and Mary with their husbands and all our other relations.
Remember me likewise to Mr. Robert and John Hotson and family, Mr. Walter Pasley and spouse, Dr. Moffat, Mr. James Carruthers and family, Mrs. Laidlaw, Mr. and Mrs. Brown, Milntown, Mr. and Mrs. Hardy Castle, to the wood forester, (1 have forgot his name), Mr. Armstrong, Wrae, and family and let me know what has become of his sons, Mr. George Irving and sisters, Arthur Rae and all enquiring friends. I forget whether I ever mentioned to you the death of Nesbit Ramsay's son or not. Monsieur de Berger, his worthy friend, obtained leave of the French Government for him to return to Geneva. Soon after his arrival he was seized with a fever that carried him off. I think it was some time in the beginning of 1810. I did not know of his death until a Lieut. of the Navy arrived here from Geneva about 18 months after, who informed me of it.
I remain, Your affectionate brother, J. Hyslop.
Cambray. 24th December, 1813.
My dear Brother,
Having the opportunity of writing to you, I cannot let slip the opportunity of letting you know that I am in good health and would be glad to find that you are all enjoying the same blessing. I wrote you on the 14th. Sept. enclosing my second Bill of Exchange. A few days after I was made happy on the receipt of yours of the 25th Inst. enclosing one from Robert and his Mother, to find you all in good health and that Walter was also well the last letter you received from him, what a great blessing! How much reason we have to be thankful to the Almighty for all his mercies.
I was much pleased with Robert's letter to find so few grammatical errors in it and not many mistakes in the orthography. I am very glad the boys signed all their names, with their ages, John excepted. I hope in a short time he will be able to sign his also. I hope they will all continue to be good boys. Tell my sister I am much obliged to her for the few lines she sent me in Robert's letter, they gave me very much comfort indeed.
Since I wrote you last I have changed my Depot. I was appointed by Capt. Otter and the Committee at Verdun to pay the charitable contributions to the seamen and soldiers here. I am allowed percentage on a certain sum that is paid. It will be a little help in addition to my pay. It perhaps may be of more service to me if ever I should return to England. As soon as they gave me the appointment I petitioned the Minister of War for permission which was immediately granted.
I left Verdun the 18th of last month and arrived here on the 24th. I passed through Sedan, a very noted place for the manufacture of Woollen Cloth, but at present there is very little done. It is a great fortified town, all the houses are built of a yellow stone. They look very pretty. I next arrived at Meziers, another small fortified town, it contains nothing remarkable. During my stay (which was two days awaiting a coach) I went as far as Charleville which is only about twenty minutes walk. It is the neatest little town I have seen in France. There is a large square in the centre of the town from which you can see the four gates. In the square there is a fountain pouring water towards each gate, there are piazzas all round the square, the smallest streets leading into the great ones are all straight. Also there are beautiful public walks out at one of the gates. It has a very large manufactory for small arms. That trade does not languish here at present.
I went by Valenciennes and remained one day, it was a little out of my way but never having been there I wished to see it. It is a fine large town and has some very good buildings in it, the streets in general are narrow and not very regular built. The Place Napoleon is a pretty place to walk about in fine weather, it is all planted with rose trees and seats placed in several places. Some of the Shannon's people are in the Citadel. I went in and saw them, they were all very glad to see me. The little boy that I had with me on board to clean my boots and shoes etc. I was quite surprised to find a great big fellow nearly six feet. My steward was there also. He wishes much to go with me to Cambray, so I have petitioned the Minister to permit him to come here. As I have occasion for some assistance I may as well employ him as another. It is not little trouble to pay 2,700 men every week which is the number in this Depot at present.
Cambray is a noted place for the manufacture of Cambrics from whence it took its name (although the French name for cambric is Batiste), there is very little done in that way at present. Cambray is a very large town, there are some very fine buildings in it. This is the birthplace of the famous Fennelon, the author of Telemachus. He was Archbishop of Cambray. I went and saw his tomb, it is only open to the public one or two days in the year. What havoc the revolution has made here amongst the churches as well as in other parts of France. I am told the Cathedral was a very large fine handsome building, now it is only a heap of ruins. There was not a church left standing here, the place of worship they have now were two old Convents !! There are some very fine paintings in the one they have for the Cathedral, until you come near them you would really imagine the figures were in marble. The canal which goes from Valenciennes to Paris runs past the town about a league distance. It is carried over the river Scheldt. I went to see it, it is very curious.
I have just received a letter from Verdun informing me that eleven surgeons of the Navy and three Officers of the Army have received their passports for England. I am very happy to hear it. I hope it is a prelude to something more general.
I am very sorry to hear of the deaths of our cousins R. Hyslop and Thomas Murray, what a melancholy fate his was. I pity his poor father and mother. A loud call to us dear Brother, "to be ready, for we know not the hour etc" Give my love to sister and the children, Magdalen and husband and all enquiring friends. Tell Robert I am much obliged to him for the news he gave me in his letter.
I remain,
Your very affectionate Brother. J. Hyslop.
Blois. 17th February, 1814
My dear Brother,
I wrote you from Cambray about the 20th December informing you of my having quitted Verdun, since which there have amazing changes taken place. All the Depots have been moved to the interior. On the 11th January all the prisoners at Verdun received sudden orders to quit that Depot for Blois. I am told such a scene of confusion never was known, for the first division were told to march the day following and the whole were to be out of Verdun on the 13th. Those who had families were in great distress, every one in want of money and conveyance for their baggage. On the 20th of January the Depot at Cambray received similar orders. The officers were ordered to Blois and the men to Tours. I left Cambray on the 24th January and arrived at Blois the 31st. The orders were so sudden that the day after the orders arrived the first division set off. It is beyond description the confusion and hurry it occasioned, almost everyone unprovided for the journey, both in respect to cash and the means of conveying their baggage. On my arrival at Blois I found all my old acquaintances from Verdun. On my way from Cambray I passed through Paris where I remained four days, and had the pleasure of seeing things most curious. They are much more liberal at Paris than London, for you can see everything without costing you a farthing.
We have again received sudden orders to quit Blois. The officers are ordered to a small town called Gueret, about 50 leagues to the south of this. It is a very miserable place by all accounts. I am more fortunate for our worthy Commandant has given me my passport for Poitiers, a fine large town. The Depot at Cambray is gone there. It is very unpleasant and very expensive to be marched about in this manner. I intended sending my Sister a Navy Bill in the Spring but this has upset all my plans and I am afraid I shall not be able to do it. But the cause of our being harassed is all in our favour and I hope will soon be the means of our release. We must bear it with patience.
I certainly have great reason to be thankful to the Almighty for his Goodness to me for I am happy to say I am in good health, and not straightened in my circumstances, which is a great blessing. I set off tomorrow for Poitiers in the Diligence, where I expect to arrive about the 21st. I send this by my worthy friend Mr. Connin who was Surgeon of the Topaz when I belonged to her. He has received his passports for England and sets off on Saturday. He was taken in the Proserpine Frigate off Toulon. Remember me kindly to sister and the children, to Magdalen and husband, to Brother Walter and all enquiring friends.
I remain,
Your affectionate Brother, J. Hyslop.
PS. I have written this in such a hurry that I am afraid you will not be able to read it, or rather not understand it, for I have not time to read it over to correct the mistakes. J .H.
No. 12 Horsley Down Lane, London. 24th May 1814
My Dear Brother,
Your letter of the 13th Ult. I duly received and was very happy to find that you and all friends were in good health, but I am sorry to find that the weaving business does not agree with Robert. It is a great misfortune. By this time he ought to have been a great help to his mother and little brothers. But he must not be idle, he must turn to something else, if he gives himself up to habits of idleness now he will never be able to leave it off. I hope the rest will continue diligent and assist their mother as much as they can. I am sorry I cannot help her at present, my expenses lately have been so great, being chased from one depot to another and then the expenses of returning home being a great deal, but I hope soon, (if the Admiralty would give me a ship ) to be able to assist her. You may tell her to rest assured that as soon as I am able I will do it.
I have written to the Admiralty but have not yet received their answer. My friends here say that it is a good omen and that they are waiting to give me a ship. It is now a fortnight since I wrote. If I don't hear from them in a day or two I mean to write them again.
I had another view of Paris on my way home. I was there five days. I saw the Kings (Louis l8th) entry into it, it was perhaps one of the most magnificent sights ever beheld. I was standing on the Pont Neuf (New Bridge) when he was passing. Madam Blanchard ascended in a balloon from the bridge, the king stopped some minutes to see her. The Duchess of Angoulem was in the carriage with him. The next day the Russian troops (40,000) were reviewed, who defiled before the King in the highest order, who was sitting at the window with the Duchess of Angoulem, the Emperors of Russia and Germany, the King of Prussia, the Count of Artois, Duke de Berri, Prince Constantine the Prince Royal of Russia and I don't know how many more. I had a very good view of them all. I was within a few yards of the window. I also saw the famous General Blucher. I was sorry I did not see the Duke of Wellington, who was there. Perhaps I may see him here. The two Emperors and the King of Prussia are expected here shortly.
I should wish much to come down to Langholm but I cannot tell till I hear from the Board. Give my kind love to sister and the children, Magdalen and her husband and all our relations, to all my friends and well-wishers (I shall not mention any of their names not having room for them all) but tell them I am much obliged for their kind enquiries. Now, my dear Brother, I must conclude and I have to beg to let me hear from you frequently as nothing will afford me more pleasure than to hear you are doing well.
I remain,
Your very affectionate brother, J. Hyslop.
P S. I am sorry it is so long since you heard from brother Walter, I hope he is well. I mean to write to him in a few days.
Orontes in the Downs. 18th July, 1815.
Dear Brother,
The two last times we came into the Downs I intended writing to you but was prevented both times. The ship was hardly moored when our signal was made to unmoor and proceed to sea, but to prevent my being disappointed a third time I began my letter at sea so that I might have it ready on our arrivals. I am happy to say, (may God make me truly thankful) that I have had my health extremely well since I joined the Orontes and upon the whole as comfortable as I can expect and very agreeable and happy with all my messmates. I am also on very good terms with the Captain. What grieves me most is the hearing of so many oaths continually and God's name so often profaned and taken in vain. I am afraid of my heart becoming callous at the frequent hearing of them repeated. I pray that the Almighty may keep me in the same frame as David was, Psalm 119 verse 136. I have to request an interest in your prayers to be kept in the right way. I will be happy to hear that you, Sister , Boys and all friends are enjoying a good state of health and that whilst we are in health we may all be preparing for death and not be putting off our repentance till a death bed. but remember the command of our Lord "be ye also ready".
Since I joined the Orontes we have been mostly cruising in the Channel off the French Coast. We lay 3 weeks at anchor off Dunkirk watching two store ships lying in the port. We received despatches by a Brig saying that War was declared with France and to detain or destroy all vessels belonging to French subjects. We just received the news in time to detain a French ship from Marseilles bound to Dunkirk. We sent her up the river. She will be a very good prize if condemned. I shall receive above £:100. On our arrival in the Downs we were immediately ordered to Dover to wait the arrival of Lord Castlereigh and to convey him to Ostend in one of the Yachts that was waiting for him. Next day his Lordship arrived; our cutter was sent on shore to carry his Lordship and suite on board the Yacht. On his leaving the shore the Fort fired a salute, and as soon as he stepped on board the Yacht we returned the salute and made sail for Ostend.
On our arrival from Ostend we were again ordered to cruise off Dieppe and St. Valery. We left the Downs on the 5th Inst., where we have been ever since endeavouring to catch Bonaparte if he should attempt to make his escape. On the 10th we were off St. Valery, it being almost calm we came to anchor. There were three boats came off to us, they had the White flag hoisted, they brought us off some newspapers. It being a Fate day with them, they invited the Captain and Officers on shore, but we declined the offer. The White flag was flying all along the French coast. We came to anchor off Brighton and remained 24 hours, the Doctor and I went on shore. The town was quite gay, there were a great many very genteel families there, but next month they will be much more so when they expect the Prince. We met with a Sir John Colville who paid us a great deal of attention. We invited him on Board to see the Ship but we sailed before he had an opportunity.
I mentioned Archibald Little's case to his brother but he was quite in a rage and would not let me speak. He said he had advanced too much already. The last time I wrote to Dr. Moffat I told him to give you Simon Little's address, it is No. 55, Old Broad Street. I hope the boys are all very diligent and that Simon has got his new coat long before this. I hope that James and John are also very diligent at school. How does the Park look, will there be a good crop this year ? Are there many berries on the bushes? Tell Sister I will write her soon. Have you ever heard from Brother Walter yet? I hope you have before this. Remember me in the kindest manner to Sister, the Boys Magdalen and husband, to my friend Dr. Moffat to the Ladies at Burnfoot and all enquiring friends.
I remain, Your very affectionate brother, J. Hyslop.
12, Horsley Down Lane, London. 21st. May, 1818.
Dear Brother,
I take the opportunity of writing a few lines and am happy to say we are all in good health and will be happy to hear that you are also the same. God grant that we may all be truly thankful for such a blessing. I hope Walter has had no more fits since the Dr. introduced the Seton in his neck. You say the Boys prefer shop-keeping, they must have an education suitable, but I think if they have not left off the Latin they had better continue it until their vacancies. I should think if they understood the Latin Grammar well, they would not require to study the English much. I agree with you respecting the French language, it is very useful for a mercantile man. I did not know that Mr. Scott understood it. They must pay great attention to their writing and arithmetic and I should suppose book-keeping would be necessary. I am glad to hear they improve so much at Drawing, I hope they will not leave it off. I should like to see some of their drawings, if there be any person coming up to Town that you could send some. I am glad to hear they delight in reading, history is the best, let me know what books they have read. Novels are not good, they only stuff their brain with nonsense. They ought to be well acquainted with the History of their own country, Scotland and England.
Has Sister got the Park put in order yet? I hope she will have a good crop this year. Is there likely to be a good crop of berries? I went to Lloyd's to enquire about the Brilliant. I met with one of the underwriters whom I know, he examined the books and found she was one which he had insured and that she had arrived safe at the Cape. I have never received any account of Brother Walter. I am much surprised that neither of Andrew Young's sons, nor John Thompson, can give you any information of him. I am afraid they do not give themselves any trouble to enquire. I think that if I had been there and they had desired me to do such a thing I would endeavour to have found him out if possible.
I put on board the Caledonia, John Johnston, Master, per Leith, some Wine for you and Dr. Moffat, which I had from Sir James Little when at Tenerife in order that you might drink his health. The ship sailed last Sunday. There are three bottles for our worthy friends at the Kerr, viz. one for Aunt Mary, one for Aunt Grizel, and one for Simon, there are three for Maddy, six for Sister and the other dozen between you and the Doctor, there being two dozen in the hamper. I hope it will arrive safe without breakage, let me know if it comes safe.
I also put into the hamper the Report of the British and Foreign Bible Society, with some monthly extracts, also an old report. If you have never seen one perhaps it may be interesting to you as it will give you an idea of what is going on abroad. I also sent the Index to the Gazette etc. I was at a meeting of the B.& F. Bible Society. It was the most interesting meeting I have ever been at, there were some very famous speeches, Lord Teignmouth appears to be a most excellent man. Having a good deal of leasure I attend many of these meetings.
I desired you to let me know the reason why Mrs. Little (late Miss Maxwell) left her husband at Edinburgh, but you forgot it in your last.
I have seen Mr. Waugh since I wrote you last. I gave Mr. Jardine's compliments to him and he desired to be kindly remembered to him.
You will find 10/6 in the Books to pay for the Wine Carriage. If there should be one of the bottles broken give 5 to the Dr. or should 2 be broken give Sister 5, then the next must fall on yourself, but I hope they will arrive safe. Remember me kindly to the Doctor and beg he will accept the Wine; remember me also to the Kerr people and to all enquiring friends. Mary joins with me in best wishes to you, Sister and the boys.
I remain,