Son's short letter to Father as he begins voyage
Author
Recipient
Date Written
Feb. 1, 1819
Charles Lawrence was 23 years old when this was written.
The recipient, Abel Lawrence, was 64 when it was received.
Charles Lawrence died 60 years, 10 months, 20 days after writing this.
It was written 204 years, 1 month, 28 days ago.
It was a Monday.
Boston
Feby. 1st 1819
Dear Father,
Our ship is in the stream, and we only wait for a wind to proceed to sea, though at present there seems to be a rather an unfavourable prospect. For my own part, I care not how soon I am off, for the probability is the sooner I go the sooner I shall be at home again. I begin to be a little impatient to be gone, and I believe the best antidote to against unpleasant feelings at going—is to wait a day or two after being ready.
I have seen a good deal of Capt. Smith & think him an intelligent, agreeable, & pleasant man. I have no doubt I shall live pleasantly with him.
My baggage all came safe except an ill-fated jar of cranberry sauces and that alas! Parted from its moorings & drove ashore, and “Half the sweet contents watered the plain;”—the waggoner [sic] however contrived to scoop up what was left into a firkin, and he said it was as “clean as penny” and I shall take his word for it.
I am now liable to be called on board every hour—of course. There is no probability of my taking another ride to Salem.
Present love & respects to Mother & kindest affections to my brothers & sisters. Love to any uncles, aunts, cousins & friends and believe me. Your affectionate son.
Charles Lawrence
Scans of Letter
