Letter

Scope and Content

From Anne Tripp in Leeds to Mary Fletcher in Madeley. Reference is made to the many favours that Tripp enjoyed under Fletcher's hospitable roof. Spiritual matters are discussed.

Fletcher will be pleased to hear of their safe return to Leeds. When they left Madeley, both Tripp and [Eleanor] Dickenson were most affected and travelled in silence for 2 or 3 miles. When they reached Shifnall, the master of the inn came out and urged them not to wait for the coach as it might be full, but continue their journey by chaise to Penkridge [Staffordshire?], which would save 6 miles. Mrs Dickenson was particularly keen not to waste any time, so they went forward by chaise.

When they arrived at Penkridge, they were told that there was no coach that day, except for the mail coach, which was quite full. They considered remaining there overnight, but as it was the Stafford Assizes and Newcastle races, they could not lodge at the inn, so after walking for some time in the beautiful churchyard and taking some refreshment, they went on to Stone, which they reached by 6 in the evening. They remained there until noon the next day. 'We were comfortably accommodated and paid handsomely for it.' When the coach arrived, they found that there was only room for one. It was pouring with rain and they felt they had no option, but to take another chaise and follow the coach to Newcastle [under Lyme], where they were able to board the coach. They reached Manchester at 9 in the evening. Tripp cannot help thinking that if they had accepted Fletcher's kind invitation to spend another week in Madeley, they would not have had as much difficulty. They left Manchester on the coach the next day at 2 and arrived in Leeds a little after 10 at night to find Mr S. Dickenson and two friends waiting. The first thing that Tripp heard on stepping down from the coach was that Miss Lucas had died 2 days before and was to be buried the next day. Tripp found that everything was fine at home and was grateful to God for the same and for her safe return home.

Everyone says that she looks better for the journey and Tripp certainly feels a little stronger and her soul more united to God.

[William] Hey called last week to enquire after Fletcher's health. Tripp hopes that when Fletcher writes next, it will be to report that her breast is not as painful and her health no worse. Spiritual matters are discussed.

Her respects should be passed to [Mary] Tooth. [Eleanor] Dickenson is still in the country and is well - her son and 3 daughters set off for Redcar yesterday morning

Priscilla sends her regards and thanks for the book that Fletcher sent for her. She has read a part of it and finds it a blessing to her soul.

Since her return home, Tripp has experienced much pain in one eye and sometimes in both. This has been an obstacle to writing sooner. Her respects should be passed to Mr and Mrs Harper