From Anne Tripp in Leeds [postmark] to Mary Fletcher in Madeley. Tripp is pained to reflect on the fact that she has failed to respond to Fletcher's letter before now, but she is sure that Fletcher will understand once she reads what Tripp has been engaged upon.
She had hoped that [William] Hey's medicines might have a positive effect on Tripp's eyesight and this hope caused her to delay writing. Soon after that she was seized with a nervous disorder and a cough accompanied by a fever that kept her in bed for near a month. However, she is now feeling much better and is able to get out again. On the first day of her illness, she lost much of the sight in her right eye - it has been failing for some time before that. This was certainly a test of faith and resignation. Spiritual matters are discussed in detail.
She was pleased to read that Fletcher's health is no worse and she hopes that Fletcher will take all possible care to keep up her strength 'for the good of the Church and the people, to whom the Lord has made you so great a blessing.'
Tripp certainly remembers Miss Gaussen and was pleased to read that she continues so well-disposed. She trusts that Fletcher's prayers for them all will be answered. Mr [Robert] Hopkins is a 'lively, loving man' and she hopes that he will be made a blessing to the people.
Tripp received a most affectionate letter a month ago from Mrs [Elizabeth] Mortimer. She wrote that she had received a letter from Mrs [Frances] Pawson, which informed her of Tripp's illness, and that [William] Hey had ordered her to drink porter and a glass or two of port each day. Reference is also made to Mrs Barford.
Dear sister Marsden has also been in Leeds and gave Tripp her annual donation of £5. Two or three friends have also sent Fletcher a bottle of wine. Tripp has received many other kindnesses from the Methodist preachers and people.
Prissy sends her love to Fletcher and [Mary] Tooth, as does Mrs [Eleanor] Dickenson - she and her family are well and comfortably settled in St Peter's Square. Many of Fletcher's friends often enquire after her.
Mrs Mortimer reports that [Adylena] Clark, widow of G[eorge] Clark has died. The times seem very bad and the clothing trade depression has thrown hundreds out of work. There is much distress among the poor.
Dr [Thomas] Coke is expected in Leeds on Christmas Day. He is fund-raising for foreign missions.
Tripp must conclude now. She wishes Fletcher and Tooth a happy new year.