From Elizabeth Lewis [probably the wife of Robert Lewis (identification by John Lenton)] in Bristol to [Mary Fletcher]. It is with pleasure that Lewis is able to write to Fletcher through her friend Miss Thomas, who is coming to reside with a relation of her’s near Madeley. Thomas very much wishes an acquaintance with Fletcher as she believes it will be very profitable to her soul.
Since Lewis last had the pleasure of seeing Fletcher, it has pleased God to try her in a very ‘tender part’ – her dear husband [Robert?] has been confined to his bedchamber for ten weeks, eight of which have been spent entirely in bed. This was occasioned by a small wound in his leg that was caused nearly five years ago and which by improper treatment has grown to great size in the fleshy part of his leg. This had to be opened and when the ‘matter’ was discharged (three quarters of a pint), ‘it was judged necessary to pass a seaton well nigh to from the knee to the ankle, otherwise it must have been entirely laid open’ and may never have recovered. Spiritual matters are discussed. Her dear partner during the whole of his confinement was very patient and resigned to the will of God. Spiritual matters are further discussed.
Lewis hoped last Summer to have had the pleasure of spending a few days with Fletcher, as her friends in Manchester had invited her to spend a while with them, yet God saw fit to deny her that pleasure. Spiritual matters are further discussed.
In a postscript, she asks that her love be passed to Sally [Lawrence]. Lewis’s husband sends his regards.