I suffer already this winter from the inclemency of the weather, so much that my hands are so chapped that I can scarcely hold the pen.

If I could find employment in a more southern position that would support me and the boy, and leave a little to be applied to the common good, I would undertake it.

I think I could at the same time be of some mental and moral service to the people where I might be located.
"Another trouble.

Young William has been very ill for the last month, brought on, I believe, by excessive work.

He is still very weak, and has not sat up for three weeks.
"All these, besides sundry slighter plagues, coming upon me at once, have perhaps a little disconcerted my nerves, and the advice and assistance of a generous friend at such a juncture would be indeed serviceable.