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.

N. No. 18. Dated June 16. 1803 Rec'd —20.

{Reverend } John Pierce Brookline

Northampton, June 19, th 1803.

My dear friend, Almost three weeks have expired since I left home, and one letter is all I have receiv'd from you, in that time. I anxiously waited the arrival of yesterdays mail, in hopes of some intelligence, but how great was my disappointment, when it came without even a line for me. I am confident that nothing but sickness would prevent your writing, and I cannot admit the idea of that. My mind is continually fluctuating, between hope, and fear. But my trust is in him who cannot err. I gain my strength very slowly, yesterday I took another emetick, and was able in the afternoon to ride out, as I have done, every pleasant day, since I have been here. Mr Lucas left us very unexpectedly, had my parents consented I certainly should accompanyed him. I feel how lonesome you must be in my absence, and long to be with you. We all anticipate the happiness of seeing you before long. I hope soon to be able to return to my family.

I am writing in haste, as Papa is waiting to carry my letter to Brother Edwards, who will, I hope, visit Brookline before he returns. Could little Sarah speek I am sure she would send her love, she grows finely. Mama says, she shall not know how to part with her. Adieu, your affectionate L. Pierce

P.S. love to Eliza, and all other friends.

N. 1803 No. 19. Dated June 19. Rec'd — 23.

{Reverend} John Pierce Brookline

Northampton, June th27. 1803.

My dear friend, Your letter by brother Edwards I have just received. I am rejoiced to hear you are well. Tho' surrounded by many dear friends, my husband has the first place in my thoughts. Absence has not diminished, but if possi -ble, increased my affection. Four weeks have now elapsed, since we parted, and I feel anxious to return. your proposal to set out for N. this day week gave me the utmost pleasure, it was agreeble to a plan, I had previously formed, in my own mind, it is as long as I can possibly prevail on myself, to be willing to stay. I hope by the blessing of heaven, to be as able, as willing to return. since I wrote last, my health has very much mended. The little girl is still gaining, our friends here, think she very much resembles her father, this idea - I have fondly cherished, and have said to myself. What pleasure can a lifeless miniature, tho' cased in gold, afford equal to this lovely face: - - By the carelessness of the Boston Postmaster, I did not receive your second letter, till Wednesday. I was spending the day with my friend Polly Pomeroy