Troubles cluster in such various shapes that I am almost overwhelmed.
And then the storm of which the little cloud was the forerunner burst in fury:-- December 30, 1843.
DEAR SIDNEY,--I have no heart to give you the details of the troubles which almost crush me, and which have unexpectedly arisen to throw a cloud over all my prospects.

It must suffice at present to say that the unfaithfulness of Dr.Fisher in his inspection of the wires, and connected with Serrell's bad pipe, is the main origin of my difficulties.
The trenching is stopped in consequence of this among other reasons, and has brought the contractor upon me for damages (that is, upon the Government).

Mr.Smith is the contractor, and where I expected to find a _friend_ I find a FIEND.

The word is not too strong, as I may one day show you.

I have been compelled to dismiss Fisher, and have received a very insolent letter from him in reply.