Poor Family Papers, 1791-1921. John and Lucy (Tappan) Pierce. Lucy (Tappan) Pierce to her husband John Pierce, 1803-1818. A-132, folder 4, Schlesinger Library, Radcliffe Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, Mass.

Northampton, June 8, 1803.

My Dear Friend. I can hardly realize that ten days only, have elapsed since we parted, to me they have appeard as so many weeks, had it not been the ardent hope I indulge, of being restored to perfect health, no considerations could have induced me to visit N. without you. I bore the journey better than I expected, the morning I left home, we reached Smiths in Weston by nine, waited an hour for Mr Lucas - while there Mr Whitney of Northborough, Mrs Joseph Foster and son from Boston arrived - and we had the pleasure of their company at Howes in Marlboro' where we dined. Mr Lucas without letting me know his plan - went to Cap. Eddys. Mama had the child and was some ways behind, they insisted on our all spending the night there. the next morning it rain'd, and our parents came on to Worcester, concluding it would not be safe for me to ride such weather - they had not been gone more than an hour when Mr L- proposed going - it was so warm he said I could not take cold - When we got to Barkers

we found Papa, and Mama were at Mr Thomass, I had a pressing invitation to join them -- before I went Mr Allen calld to see me, and urged my going directly to his house - and making it my home while in Worcester - but Mrs T__ would not consent. we pass'd a very agreeable day -- Mr Allen spent part of the afternoon with us, and made me promise to visit them on my return, he also requested me when I wrote to you, to present his compliments and desire you to make his house your first stage when you come up. Monday Mr Lucas set out, for the Springs. Brother Stoddard went with him, he said before he went, that he intended I should return to Brookline with him if my health would permit. Dr. Hunt has visited me, and approved of Mamas application and advised its continuance - all my complaints he said, proceeded from neglecting my breast, and if the tumour was not removed the consequences might be lasting, my eyes are still very weak tho' a little better than when I left Brookline. The little girl grows finely and appears in fine health. I shall be impatient for tomorrows mail. for I anticipate a letter from my best friend - I have a thousand things to write but our careful Mother insists on my not writing any more till my eyes are better. Remember me affectionately to Eliza compliments to all other friends not forgetting Mr Allen. I shall write a few lines to Mrs Walley, if my sight holds out. for I know she will be pleas'd with such a mark of attention. I shall be rejoiced to again see Brookline, for Northampton has few charms when my best friend is absent. I find I gain strength every day. I hope soon to be able to say that I gain flesh too. Yours till death L- Pierce

N. No. 17. Dated June 8. 1803. Rec'd——12.

{Reverend} John Pierce, Brookline.

Northampton, June 16, 1803.

My dear friend, Mr Lucas return'd last evening from the springs. I have not seen him, but hear he intends seting off for home this morning. I had fully intended returning with him. Had he staid a week longer at the Westward, I cannot think of his going without me, our parents will not give their consent to my leaving them at present -- they say I should never be able to carry the child, besides, they wish me to be under Dr. Hunts care a little longer. If it is for the best, I acquiese, Your letter was a cordial indeed. I thank you sincerely for being so particular. you are never absent from my thoughts. often when caressing Sarah, I fancy you standing by, sharing her smiles, and as much delighted as myself. -- I was interrupted by Mr Lucas, he has just left here, and intends leaving town soon. I find he cannot be prevailed upon to stay any longer. Perhaps he has altered his mind, and chooses to return alone, for he observ'd it would be folly for me to return before I had gaind

more strength. I have been so anxious to recover my health, that I have only visited my sisters. My acquaintancs have all call'd to see me. I have but a short time to write, and the idea of Mr Lucas returning without me, has entirely derang'd my thoughts, it will prolong our separation, and increase my anxiety about home- I fear Polly makes but a poor housekeeper - but I will endeavour to hope for the best. You know Mr. L. he return'd almost immediately equipt for the journey said he could not stay for me to write, for he could give all necessary information- Mama however has kept him a few moments for me to finish this scrawl do let me hear from you soon, write every thing that passes - It is call'd for. I can write no more.

Yours affectionately Lucy