From Elizabeth Mortimer at River Terrace [Islington, London] to [Mary] Fletcher in Madeley. She cannot let the ‘young folks’ leave without dropping Fletcher a line. Mortimer was pleased to discover from Fletcher’s last letter that she was still able to meet with the society, but is now afraid that this may no longer be the case as Mortimer’s step-son [George] informs her that Fletcher’s health has taken a turn for the worse.
Dear Mrs Bates (the former Miss Morgan) has just visited here. Her husband died about six weeks ago. ‘She sends you a debt of 27 years standing. She was with Mrs Hoskins in Switzerland, and with Mr [James] Ireland was left one of her executors: and I suppose thinks if your dear husband [John Fletcher] suffered any loss by her neglect, it is duty to repay. I tell her it will help you to help the poor and she is glad to put it in your power. She is in a sweet spirit and only wishes to live, to get fully ready to follow those that are gone before.’
[Harvey Walklate] Mortimer has been fully restored to health. Spiritual matters are discussed.
The Mr Greenwood mentioned in Mortimer’s last letter was Thomas Greenwood, son of Charles and Mary Greenwood of Newington. He has left four sons and one daughter.
Mortimer saw dear Lady Mary [Fitzgerald] yesterday. She is becoming very feeble but is spiritually healthy. She is a ‘wonder’ for the age of 86, although the body appears to be gradually sinking. Spiritual matters are discussed.