Dering Letters - Patricia Shillingburg

Dering Letters
Volume 1 of 3
1733-1775
Compiled, transcribed, and annotated by Patricia and Edward Shillingburg
1
The Dering Letters
Volume 1 of 3
1733-1775
© 2014 Patricia and Edward Shillingburg
All rights reserved
ISBN: 978-1-312-70313-1
Published by:
Cedar Grove Press
4 West Neck Road
PO Box 3032
Shelter Island Heights, NY 11965
631-749-3028
Cover: Thomas Dering (1720-1785)
Drawn by Kirsten Lewis 2014
from a drawing at the Metropolitan Museum of Art
(donated by General Sylvester Dering in 1916)
Permission to reproduce the images of the letters was graciously given by the Shelter Island
Public Library and the Shelter Island Historical Society
The Dering Letters were given to the Shelter Island Library in 1916 by General Sylvester Dering at
the same time that he donated the family’s portraits to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. In 2000
the Library placed them with the Shelter Island Historical Society on a “permanent loan” basis.
Since then, in 2013, they were remounted for preservation purposes, and, in 2014, transcribed
and prepared for publication.
2
Table of Contents
Preface
4
Introduction
5
Genealogical Charts
Family of Mary Sylvester and Thomas Dering
8
Family of Hepzibah Small Edwards 22
Family of Abigail Chesebrough and Alexander Grant
89
Family Crest
7
Letters
(begin) 11
Portraits
Margaret Chesebrough
David Chesebrough
Mary Sylvester
Abigail Chesebrough
Alexander Grant
16
16
17
54
55
Images of Letters:
# 2
# 67
# 97
# 157
# 206
# 245
# 303
# 326
# 178
# 173
# 177
page 10 page 56
page 79
page 123 page 167
page 190
page 227
page 228
page 232
page 238
page 239
Mary Burroughs Sylvester to daughter Mary Sylvester, May 26, 1733
Daniel Farnham to Thomas Dering, November 21, 1757
Abigail Chesebrough to Thomas Dering, January 1, 1761
Hepzibah Small to Thomas Dering, June 28, 1765
William Adams to Thomas Dering, November 24, 1765
Charles Jeffrey Smith to Thomas Dering, July 10, 1767
Thomas Hutchinson, Jr. to Thomas Dering, August 3, 1772
Sylvester Muirson to Thomas Dering, October 25, 1775
Henry Dering to Thomas Dering, May 26, 1764
Sarah Dering Thomas to Thomas Dering, April 29, 1764
Joseph Belknap to Thomas Dering, May 18, 1764
Bibliography229
Index233
3
Preface
The Dering Letters in the Shelter Island Historical Society Collection consist of 762 letters in eight
volumes, Books I through VIII. The transcriptions of those letters completed in 2014 by Patricia
Shillingburg (with the assistance of five volunteers: Charity Robey, Joanne Sherman, Olivia Land,
Patricia Yourdon, and Emily Hallman, each of whom volunteered 32 hours in eight weeks) are printed in
three volumes.
These are not the only Dering papers. The Clements Library at the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
has 133 letters which primarily act as bookends to the Dering letters at Shelter Island. There are family
papers, primarily about the heraldry of the Dering family and the administration of Thomas’s father
Henry’s Will at the Massachusetts Historical Society in Boston. There are also significant papers dealing
with the Henry Packer Dering family of Sag Harbor at the Long Island Collection at the East Hampton
Library and in the private collection of Hannah Stewart Dinkel on Shelter Island. There are about 6
inches of linear feet of Dering papers at the New York Public Library and a smattering of Dering papers
in the Sylvester Manor Collection at the Fales Library at New York University.
In the transcriptions, for comfortable reading, modern spellings are used. Within the letters themselves,
there is often strange distracting spelling, sometimes because there was no convention yet for spelling
many words or because some correspondents failed to learn how to spell.
Unintelligible words are denoted with the symbol [-]. Paragraphs are placed arbitrarily to ease reading of
dense materials, and punctuation is inserted, again for ease of reading.
Some letters have not been transcribed because not only is the handwriting generally unintelligible, but
the words do not express coherent thought. This is generally true of letters from James Reeve of Southold.
When a letter ends with …. the transcribers have given up.
The letters are, with a few exceptions, placed in Books I though VIII chronologically and are numbered
from 1 to 762 by the transcribers. However, before placing the transcriptions in these volumes (1-3), they
have been sorted into chronological order by date, which means that a few letters are out of numerical
order.
The letters primarily represent a one way street into the Dering household and not from it. They seem to
be letters perhaps picked to tell stories and not to present the whole picture.
Finally, we would like to point out that there are four major female voices in Volume 1: Margaret Sylvester
Chesebrough, Mary Sylvester Dering’s sister; Abigail Chesebrough Grant, Margaret’s step-daughter;
Hepzibah Small Edwards, Thomas Dering’s first cousin; and Sarah Dering Thomas, Thomas Dering’s
youngest sister. There are other women writers in this and the other two volumes, but this volume is very
much theirs.
Patricia and Edward Shillingburg
November 2014
4
Introduction
Thomas Dering, a failed Boston merchant, moved his wife Mary and young son to the Sylvester family’s
manor house on Shelter Island in 1762. His brother-in-law David Chesbrough of Newport was furious.
When Brinley Sylvester died on Christmas Eve in 1751, his daughters, Margaret and Mary, inherited his
1,000 acre estate with a Georgian mansion at the side of a navigable creek. David Chesbrough wanted
to sell his wife’s inheritance, but Thomas was indifferent to that plan, and as his own inherited business
began to fail, he saw his wife’s half share in a sizable farm as a blessing. Thomas won that battle with
David but would, for most of the rest of his life, have to contend with his brother-in-law’s fuming about
late wood shipments and rent payments.
The first Dering to arrive in the English colonies in America was Henry who was in Salisbury,
Massachusetts in 1664. He was that year licensed to sell “strong waters.” Soon he bought Goodman
Tuck’s ordinary in Hampton, New Hampshire, which he ran for several years. From there he was
licensed to run the ordinary in Portsmouth. In May 1669 the Massachusetts Colony records reported
that Henry Dering was admitted freeman and in 1676 or 1677 he removed to Boston. There, instead
of running an inn and tavern, he became a shopkeeper and merchant. He was active in his local
government, his church, and his local militia. For example, he served as overseer of the poor for thirteen
years, served in many capacities at First Church, and served in the Ancient and Honorable Artillery
Company. He married Ann Benning, widow of Ralph Benning, on June 8, 1664. On November 15,
1676 he married Mrs. Elizabeth Atkinson (ne Mitchelson), widow of the second Theodore Atkinson. His
house and shop were on the north corner of Court and Washington streets. He also owned a brick house
on Queen Street and a pasture at Atkinson Lane.
With Ann Benning, Henry had one daughter, Ann, who married Nathaniel Crynes in 1667 and died of
smallpox in December 1686. His children with Elizabeth were Elizabeth, Elizabeth (married William
Welsteed), twins Mary (married William Wilson) and Martha, and Henry.
Henry, only son of the immigrant Henry, was born in Boston on October 6, 1684. He married, probably
in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Elizabeth Packer, a daughter of Colonel and Dr. Thomas Packer and
his wife Elizabeth. Thomas Packer, an Englishman, became the Judge of Probate and Councillor in New
Hampshire in 1719. Henry followed his father’s tradition of serving his community whenever called
upon to do so. [Eaton, Arthur Wentworth Hamilton, The New York Genealogical and Biographical
Record, January 1921.]
Their first son, Thomas, was born in Boston on May 16, 1720. His siblings who lived into adulthood
included one brother Henry and four sisters: Elizabeth, Anne, Mary, and Sarah. Brothers and sisters
were all educated and all would live interesting lives filled with upheavals and trials.
Henry never married. Elizabeth married Samuel Wentworth, the son of the then Lieutenant Governor
of New Hampshire. Anne married James Monk of Nova Scotia. Mary married John Gooch of Boston
and Sarah, Nathaniel Ray Thomas of Marshfield, Massachusetts. It turned out that all of the sisters’
husbands, except one, died before the Revolutionary War. All of their families were loyalists and most
ended up in Canada following the war.
Thomas was apprenticed in his father’s merchant business and after his father’s death in 1750, he and
his brother Henry took charge. Thomas was thirty years old, Henry only 15. These were turbulent times
in the American colonies, and, as merchants, the pressures of taxes and import limitations imposed by
5
the British Parliament were significant and forced them into failure in 1761. The brothers sold the family’s
house on Queen Street. Henry, with their first cousin Hepzibah Small, moved into a boarding house, and
Thomas, his wife Mary, and their little boy Sylvester boarded a packet to New London, and from there to
Shelter Island to begin a life as a yeoman farmer.
One debt that Thomas and Henry could not easily pay off was for £1,664 to the London export firm of
Lane & Booth, which would dog Thomas for the rest of his life and would eventually be settled by his sons
Sylvester and Henry Packer nearly 30 years later.
In the late 1730s, after litigation against William Nicoll and then his estate resulted in Brinley Sylvester,
grandson of the original settler, Nathaniel and Grizzell Sylvester, receiving from the Court 1,000 acres
including the old homestead farm, he tore down the old house and constructed a Georgian house after
the style popular in Newport that is imagined to have looked very much like the Manor house today
without the added two-story back wing and porches. It was into that house, with their only child, Sylvester,
Thomas and Mary moved.
They would eventually have a daughter Elizabeth, called Betsy by her friends, and a son, Henry Packer.
Both Sylvester and Henry Packer would graduate from Yale, Sylvester with his friends Nathan Hale and
Benjamin Tallmage from Setauket. Henry graduated in 1784.
On his arrival on the Island, Thomas quickly filled a void that had been left by the death of Mary’s father.
He became a civic leader and eventually Supervisor (Mayor). He became a leader of the religious revival
on the East End. One of his religious friends was James Reeve of Southold who wrote him frequently.
He also befriended the Reverend William Adams who had been Brinley’s personal pastor who was now
retired and living with his brother and his brother’s wife in New London. Brinley had built a house for Mr.
Adams, which is today known as Creek Cottage.
As hostilities with the British increased Thomas represented his community in various Provincial
assemblies and in the Provisional Convention of New York that unanimously adopted the Declaration of
Independence in 1775.
6
A modern facimile of the Dering crest reproduced by Joy Lewis,
owner of the Charles Thomas Dering house in Sag Harbor. This
was actually created by Henry Packer Dering from his father Thomas
Dering’s crest commissioned while he still lived in Boston.
7
Note: Shaded icons indicate authors of letters in the Dering Letters, Shelter Island Historical
Society (2014).
Sources: Arthur W. H. Eaton, “The Deering or Dering Family of Boston, Massachusetts,
and Shelter Island, New York,” New York Genealogical and Biographical Record, Vol. 52, pp.
44-51 (Jan. 1921); Rev. Jacob E. Mallmann, Shelter Island and its Presbyterian Church (1899,
1985 reprint), pp.177-178; Michael J. Boonstra,”Descendants of ‘King’ David Chesebrough of
Newport, Rhode Island,” New England Historical and Genealogical Register, Vol. 156, pp. 223,
233-234, 236 (July 2002); pp. 373 (October 2002).
8
9
Letter # 2, on May 26, 1733, from Mary Burroughs Sylvester to her daughter Mary Sylvester who was in
school in Boston while living with relatives.
10
• This presentation, in three volumes, is primarily a compilation, with commentary, of the Dering Collection of letters at the
Shelter Island Historical Society. However, in addition to the Collection’s eight bound books, there are also a few letters from
the Dinkel (Book D) and the University of Michigan (Book M) collections.
• Some editing conventions to note: the symbol [-] was inserted for an unknown word. Multiple dashes [----] mean multiple
words. Because the letter writers often used no commas, period, or other useful punctuation, they have been inserted for
readability. We have dealt with awkward spelling in two ways: if we know the intended word, we spell it correctly, and if
we don’t know the word, but we can figure out the spelling, we use that spelling.
• When the saving of letters in the Sylvester and Dering families began in the 1730s, Thomas Dering was in his teens and
at school in Boston and then working for his father in his merchant business. His sisters were marrying, Elizabeth to Samuel
Wentworth in 1732, Mary to John Gooch in 1736, Anne to James Monk in 1740, and Sarah to Nat Ray Thomas
in 1754. Henry, fifteen years younger than Thomas, followed in his brother’s footsteps. The Wentworths were politically
prominent in New Hampshire and the Thomases in Marshfield, Massachusetts. The rest of the Dering family was centered
in Boston.
• In the 1730s, Benjamin Franklin, who had been born and raised in Boston, founded the first public library, the first
volunteer fire company, and the first city-paid police force in his adopted city of Philadelphia. These ideas were not
isolated to Philadelphia. Newport was the site of the Redwood Athenaeum in 1747. In 1729, Franklin began to publish
the Pennsylvania Gazette and in 1732 he began publishing Poor Richard’s Almanac. In 1735 freedom of the press was
established in New York by the acquittal at trial of John Peter Zenger for sedition.
• This first group of three letters is from Mary Burroughs Sylvester (1701-1751), wife of Brinley Sylvester (1694-1752),
written to her daughters Margaret (1719-1782) and Mary (1724-1794). When Brinley and Mary gained ownership
of the home farm at Shelter Island in the early 1730s following a protracted lawsuit to reclaim his paternity, Brinley tore
down the old farmstead and built the Manor house ib the location we know today. It was a four over four construction with
a central hall. From the beginning the house slaves were to be accommodated in the attic.
• Both Margaret and Mary were away from home in Boston, living with Mary Burroughs’ relatives, so that they could
benefit from appropriate schooling. Margaret was admonished to pay attention to her spelling, a skill she unfortunately never
acquired. It was not unusual for children, both boys and girls, to be sent away from home to go to school. As early as age
ten, and certainly by age twelve, boys were sent to live with “masters” to prepare in Latin and Greek for college. Girls were
sent away to perfect their skills in “domestic arts,” music, drawing and painting, and necessary social skills; however, it
was not long before academic subjects were even more important. By the mid-1700s one’s level of education was clear in
one’s penmanship: Margaret’s stepdaughter, Abigail Chesebrough, in 1760 wrote the first beautifully legible letter in this
collection, which foretold that clarity of penmanship signaled the level of education.
Book: 1, Number: 2
Date: 5/26/1733
To: Mary Sylvester
From: Mary Burroughs
Sylvester (Mother)
Place: Shelter Island
Shelter Island May ye 26 1733
Dear Child
I have sent you two shifts, two aprons, two handkerchiefs, two caps, a pair
of pockets and the cotton and linen, which I intend for a bed. I desire it may
be managed as your aunt thinks proper, whose judgment I can trust as well
in that as other things: therefore I would have you be governed by her in all
respects as if she was your mother, and be as ready to ask her counsel as you
would mine. I don’t doubt but she will give you good advice. Be sure to follow
it and all good examples avoiding the appearance of evil. Remember that the
Eye of God is ever upon you and that he will call you to an account for all
the deeds done in the body. Endeavor to walk so that you may be able to give
it with joy and not with grief. Give as little trouble in the family as possible,
behave yourself so as to get the love of all, be careful to improve your time to
11
the best advantage especially in getting good to your soul I recommend you
to God desiring that he would keep you from all evil but especially from
the evil of sin, and remain your affectionate mother. I would not have you
neglect to write to me by every opportunity. Mary Sylvester
Book: 1
Number: 3
Date: 4/26/1734
To: Margaret Sylvester
From: Mary Burroughs
Sylvester (Mother)
Place: Shelter Island
Shelter Island April ye 26 1734
My dear I received yours of ye 25 of March which was ye third I have had
since I left you. It was very pleasing to me. I, therefore, hope you will not
omit writing by every opportunity and be more careful in spelling which is
ye greatest ornament in writing, which you are extreme wanting in, for your
letters will not bear reading but by a friend, therefore desire you to take pains
with yourself and endeavor to improve so necessary a qualification. I have
received Johnnie’s shirts stays and calico, which were very acceptable. Your
father has sent money for a spinet, which I suppose may be had in Boston,
if your aunt think it best, and orders for your clothes and what else you’ll
want. I have send a quilt in ye box of candles which I hope you have received
before now and shall send and some night caps as soon as I can make them.
I would have you send your old bonnet and anything else, which you don’t
use that will do for your sister. As to the doctor’s medicines I did not take
till now being advised to wait till ye spring, which have hitherto worked as
well as I could expect. I have been confined to my room about a month and
expect if I do well to be confined at least 10 days longer. I am very much
blamed by your friends as well as mine, that I have not sent for you before
now considering my weakness and great need. I have of help. In such a
family, it is a piece of self denial almost too great for me, and unless I have
my health better than I have had, you must expect to be sent for in a little
time. Therefore would advise you to improve the present time in endeavoring
after the accomplishing of your self, especially of your mind by getting an
acquaintance with God and things that are spiritual which are worth the
greatest pains, which are ye ornaments I desire you excel in. We all give my
kind love to your aunt and cousins. I am your dear mother Mary Sylvester.
• In 1735, Thomas Dering’s mother, Elizabeth Packer, died, probably as a result of giving birth to her son Henry. Thomas
was fifteen years old. His sister Elizabeth had married Samuel Wentworth, son of New Hampshire’s Lieutenant Governor.
The following year his sister Mary would marry John Gooch, son of James Gooch, a merchant.
• Also in 1735, the King’s Highway, from Charleston to Boston was completed, which facilitated trade along the Eastern
seaboard; however, transportation remained confined to horse and wind power. Horses could only pull so much weight and they
were unable to travel more than about 25 miles in a day. Wind power was less reliable, but boats could cart heavier weight
and sailing was usually smoother, and therefore more comfortable, than a rutted or muddy road. Water was by far the better
highway and ships plied along the shoreline between villages and cities.
Book: D (Dinkel Collection)
Number: 64
Date: 9/18/1738
To: Mary Sylvester
From: Mary Burroughs
Sylvester (Mother)
Place: Shelter Island
12
Shelter Island September ye 18 1738
My Dear Molly
I received your letter by Capt. Hobart which was exceeding pleasing to me.
I am glad you like Boston and that you are so contented. I believe it makes
me more easy than I thought I should be to have you from me. Yet am I very
thoughtful and concern for you. I hope and desire you will be so for yourself
and endeavor to improve your time to the best advantage because the present
time is only yours. That which is passed cannot be recalled and you are not
sure of tomorrow. Above all things consider of the things that belong to your
soul’s peace before they are hid from your eyes. Don’t let your heart go after
your eyes which are beholding abundance of vanities, but give up your heart
to God who justly requires it of you for his Glory. You was made and by his
visitation it is that your spirit is preserved in life. Beg of God to form and
fashion your heart according to his own mind and will and that he would
be pleased for the sake of Christ to enlighten your dark understanding, that
you see the right way and be walking in those paths that are well pleasing
unto him. Consider you are now acting for eternity and that God will bring
every work into judgment with every secret thing whether it be good or evil.
Don’t neglect, every day, to read some part of God’s word and beg of him
to set his home upon your heart that thereby you may be brought lovingly
acquainted with him whom to know right is life eternal. – Be very dutiful to
your aunt. Receive her instructions and be as careful to please her as if she
was your mother. Strive to get the love of all by behaving yourself soberly,
modestly, and obligingly to everybody. Make as little trouble as possible in
the family. Be diligent in making and mending your clothes. When there is
occasion strive to keep them neat and clean. Be always readier to hear than
to speak, and don’t forget to think before you speak. I shall send, by the
first opportunity, a petticoat and some diaper to make you a gown. We all
long to see you and rejoice to hear from you which I desire we may by all
opportunities. Give my regards to all friends and I remain your affectionate
Mother– Mary Sylvester
• This next letter was from Roland Cotton in Boston to his friend Brinley Sylvester discussing Thomas Hutchinson’s aborted
plans to visit the Sylvester family on Shelter Island. Such a trip would be strenuous at best, and with Mrs. Hutchinson
“growing fat,” an expression for pregnant, it would be perilous as well, whether on land (stage coach) or sea.
• William Adams was the Sylvester family’s minister. Brinley built Creek Cottage for Mr. Adams who served the Shelter
Island community for about 30 years. Legend is that he much preferred preaching to pastoring.
Book: 1
Number: 4
Date: 2/15/1739
To: Brinley Sylvester
From: Roland Cotton
Place: Boston
Boston 15 February 1739
My worthy friend
I have wrote you several times this winter. If you have not received any
of them I can tell you this for your consolation. They were not worth a
perusal, yet I keep on to gratify my-self being always in a good humor. What
I recollect my undeserved good treatment at Shelter Island, which I must
reciprocate as often as I write to you. Our sister Cotton has wrote you via
Rhode Island the beginning of this week and desires me to tell you she hopes
they will arrive you soon. Thomas Hutchinson has removed into his father’s
house. He, your sister, his wife, and Miss Rozelle designed a visit to you next
summer but he found that day his wife is finally [-] and squarely growing
fat again very fast, which will render the journey or voyage abortive lest she
should (if they proceed) prove so. Mr. Oliver and family well and cousin
Peggy Prime I am, Sir, your assured obliged friend and most humble servant
Roland Cotton. I salute Mdm. Sylvester, the young lady, yourself, and the
Rev. Mr. Adams.
13
• In 1740 Thomas Dering was 20 years old and living in his father’s brick faced house on Queen’s Street in Boston with his
four sisters and five year old brother. He was working in his father’s store. Although his father did not deem a college education
necessary for the life he imagined for his son, many of Thomas’s friends and the men who would marry his sisters did
graduate from Harvard.
• Thomas Dering kept this letter from Judah Morris to his father, which was written when Thomas was 20 years old. It
is obvious that he treasured it. It is a very long treatise on issues that deal with scripture, man’s relationship to God and the
immediacy of God’s wrath, punishment and retribution visited unexpectedly on every human being. We have chosen not to
transcribe it.
Book: 1
Number: 5
Date: 12/31/1740
To: Henry Dering
From: Judah Morris
Place: Cambridge
.......
• On October 8, 1749, Margaret Sylvester, aged 30, married David Chesebrough of Newport, Rhode Island. The ceremony
probably took place at the Sylvester family’s home on Shelter Island as Mary (Burroughs) and Brinley Sylvester had their
own family pastor, William Adams, living in a small cottage on their estate. David had been born at Stonington, Connecticut
on February 2, 1702/03 and baptized there on August 12, 1703. He was the son of Mary (MacDowell) and William
Chesebrough. He was a widower having first married Abigail Rogers at Trinity Church in Newport on June 12, 1729.
She bore him three children, Mary, William and Abigail. Only Abigail lived beyond infancy and was now 15 years old. In
1736, David had been named a freeman of Newport and in 1737 he had built a large house described as being a replica
of the famous Hancock house in Boston. David probably made his fortune in the Triangle Trade, rum to Africa, slaves to the
Caribbean, molasses to Newport to be distilled into rum. He was knicknamed “King” David because of his success and rank
among the successful men of Newport. Margaret bore two children, Mary in 1750 and William in 1751, both of whom
died in infancy. [Boonstra, Michael J., Descendants of King David Chesebrough of Newport, Rhode Island, New England
Historical and Genealogical Register, July 2002, pages 223-227.]
• Thomas Dering’s sister Anne married James Monk in 1740. Thomas lent Charles Monk money and Charles had avoided
repaying him. Charles was probably James’s brother. It is difficult to get a read on James Monk, but by 1749 he was in
Canada and when he died in 1762 he was Solicitor General of Canada and a resident of Windsor, Nova Scotia. His sons
James and George Henry both distinguished themselves in the service of their King. Anne and James’s son Charles was not
born until 1753.
Book: 1
Number: 9
Date: 12/22/1749
To: Charles Monk
From: Thomas Dering
Place: Boston
14
Boston December 22, 1749
Mr. Charles Monk
For above you have on account current balance due to me being £63.11,
which has been due now above 2 years. If you can’t [-] be payable it ought
to have been paid a long time ago. Had it been a debt contracted as many
are and had any profits upon it you might have thought I should not been
a loser of the whole, but it is all entirely enough out of my pocket to advise
you only. I therefore think that you can make no excuse to defer my payment
if is directly for I have been in advance long enough. I hear you are in a
money getting way, therefore I expect you will send me your account as soon
as possible being your needful request. From your injured friend Thomas
Dering
• It was also in 1749 that Thomas Dering commissioned from Nathaniel Hurd a bookplate, rococo in style with the family
crest of three stags. Thomas was 29 years old at the time and Hurd was only 19. It was the first of its kind and signaled
the beginning of the rococo style in ornament in New England. [Heckscher, Morrison H., American Rococo 1750-1775:
Elegance of Ornament, Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1992.]
• In 1750, Thomas’s father, Henry Edward Dering, died. Thomas was thirty years old and his younger brother Henry
fifteen. Thomas and Henry inherited their father’s store and merchant business, and there will, for the next few years, be
letters that relate to that business.
• That same year, the British Parliament passed the Iron Act that limited production of finished iron products in the colonies.
A year later, the British passed the Currency Act prohibiting the issuance of money in the colonies.
• In 1751 Margaret Chesebrough’s and Mary Sylvester’s mother, Mary Burroughs Sylvester, died and in 1752, their father,
Brinley Sylvester, died. They were buried on Shelter Island.
Book: 1
Number: 10
Date: 1/5/1753
To: Edward Child
From: John Campbell
Place:
Mr. Edward Child
I received your line dated January 3, 1753 in answer to which I hereby grant
that the money be paid Mr. Dering as soon as you can and that [-]Richard
Williams [-] instead [-] custody due to Mr. Edward Rilchin of Salem taken
up the day you be onto with the principal sum and interest upon to that day
in the book form of a receipt upon site when of your introducing of said
bond to [-] my order. I shall deliver the note of hand which I have forgive
money. With [-] your half of years, I subscribe your friend and humble
servant
Book: 1
Number: 6
Date: 4/18/1753
To: Thomas Dering
From: Theodore Atkinson
Place: Portsmouth
Portsmouth April 18, 1753
On Sunday the 15th last Aunt Welson expired about an hour before the day
light appeared and yesterday agreeable to your directions was interred at
Newington being the nearest. I was determined to bring her corpse to town
and bury her from my house and in my tomb, but in that case the funeral
charge would be augmented for I must have given rings to others. She never
came sedately to her reason was more troublesome in her sickness to attend
if possible than when she had her health. I gave gloves to her person you
directed and of which you have with the particular re- of the expenses I have
advanced which is the whole charges of her internment. I think.
I have had with me several times Mr. Stephen March in order to settle and
finish the account with your Aunt Marsh and finally have settled the account
[-] your aunt signed with f[-] additional £... I intended to have attended her
funeral but was prevented by the rain not being very well offered [-] to defer
it to the next day if no convenience attended but the pallbearer attending it
not raining so hard as it had done. Some time before they grudgingly carried
her out her bearers [-] was Deacon Sherburne [-]. Deacon Neal [--] Bickford,
George Walton and John Hudson Esquire who all attended except one in
whose room and other was appointed.
Deacon Neal tells me him and him his wife will have all her things cleaned
and ready for you only he tells me her Bible she often told him should be sent
to her cousin Henry Dering which is all the directions she ever gave either in
15
Margaret Sylvester Chesebrough, painted by Joseph Blackburn in 1754. [Metropolitan Museum of Art.]
Insert is David Chesebrough, whose portrait hangs at the Old Lighthouse Museum in Stonington, CT.
16
Mary Sylvester Dering, painted by Joseph Blackburn in 1754. [Metropolitan Museum of Art]
17
her health or [-] that I heard of [-] everything could be done for her in her
life time and since has been performed and [-] she has [-] of the new and
real happiness which her loss of her [-] so sorry deprived her were thinking
of nothing can describe the trouble she gave when in health which since her
being at deacon Nielsen [-] seeing and my wife often however there is now
our and and I am sure Mrs. Neal has done her part and quite fully as if she
were her dearest relation. Some few days before my aunt died she fell [-]
down and her arms severely scratched and the skin broken in many places by
my Aunt’s irrational behavior. Enclosed is the bill of what I paid which brings
in every article agreeable [--] accept a [-] of nails round the coffin which
was a trifling charge and contrary to my orders I have no [-] and to think it
will meet your approbation tender my regards to my relations with you and
accept the [-]
Book: 1
Number: 11
Date: 10/11/1753
To: Thomas Dering
From: Edward Hitchens
Place: Salem
Salem October 11, 1753
Sir
When Mdm. Grant was at Boston she saw a [-] of bag at Mr. Emery’s. The
price 3 pounds 5 shillings [--] tenor. If it measure 20 you please to take it if
you think it is as good as can be bought for that money. Also desire the favor
of you to send me 4 yards of superfine Crimson broadcloth for a Rockalow.
A bright colour fashionable trimming of the same color one of your best
dark gray Hocking. I make no doubt but that you will get them at the lowest
price paying the ready money. I have sent you one hundred thirty two pound
old tenor. Not knowing what the amount will be am in hopes it is more than
will be counted. Your care in this affair will be an additional obligation. My
compliments to all inquiring friends. I am with great respect your kinsman
and humble servant Edward Hitchens
• Miss Sally was Thomas’s youngest sister Sarah Dering who would marry the following year. Miss Hepzi was his cousin
Hepzibah Small, the daughter of his mother’s sister Susanna Packer Small. She was six years older than Thomas. They both
were living in the Dering household on Queen’s Street in Boston.
Book: 1
Number: 12
Date: 3/30/1754
To: Thomas Dering
From: Edward Hitchens
Place: Salem
18
Salem March 20, 1754
Dear Sir
Your favor of the 15th instant I received with a pattern of scarlet cloth. The
color I like very well. As to the grounds of the cloth I am not able to form
an exact judgment by reason the pattern being too small. I must leave the
affair with you to do as you would for yourself. You don’t mention the sterling
coat which makes me at a loss with respect to the price. I am in hopes the
gentleman won’t insist upon £1100 but being you pay him the ready money I
suppose the cloth coat about 16 shillings sterling if you find it pleases to send
the best of trimming for it of the same color. I am sorry and ashamed to give
you so much trouble. My compliments to Miss Sally and Miss Hepzi and all
inquiring friends. I am your obliged kinsman very humble servant Edward
Hitchens
PS The first opportunity I have the person will wait upon you to receive it if
you think it will answer EH
Book: 1
Number: 14
Date: 11/27/1754
To: Thomas Dering
From: John Mifflin
Place: Philadelphia
Philadelphia November 27, 1754
Respected friend, Thomas Dering
I received your favor of the 10th October by Capt. Edmond Morton and by
him I have shipped you 60 [-] flour and one of the best middling bread and
in hope will arrive safe. I believe you will find as good flour amongst this as is
made for very good, which would have cost more and not been better. The
bread is of the sort I used to send my friends Gunter, Gooch and others for
their own use. You did not mention what sort below you have the time. The
bond Shelley and his security gave made for 200 pounds being part of the
debt he owed your father. I believe no more will be got from Shelley. If you
insist on it, his security must pay the interest due on this bond. You may give
directions in your next what I shall say to his friend. I am your affectionate
friend John Mifflin
Bond for 200 pounds dated September 1752 payable in May 1753 without
interest.
Received £100 July 17, 1753
Received £100 September 24, 1754
Book: 1
Number: 13
Date: 11/29/1754
To: Thomas Dering
From: Theodore
Atkinson, Jr.
Place: Portsmouth
Portsmouth November 29, 1754
My coming home so suddenly deprived me of the pleasure of taking my
leave of friends at Boston and doing some business for a friend, which I must
beg a favor of you to take the trouble of. You have 2 letters directed to me
one from my father, the other from my [-] man Stuckey; the former pleased
to enclose and the latter open and with the money [-] it, please to buy the
scales and weights [-] for I send them by the post if that is not [-]ent and you
have received no money by my orders since I saw you please to charge me
with the remainder. I now enclose you a pistole which I hope will balance
your account though I am not certain having left your account at Cambridge
where I intended to have returned before now; but have determined to tarry
here till after the vacancy. Please do include the newspapers and believe me
for innumerable favors very justly your obliged humble servant Theodore
Atkinson Junior
PS I pay my compliments to all friends
• It is possible that King David Chesebrough brought the painter Joseph Blackburn from Bermuda to Newport where he
painted 20-year-old Abigail before tackling the sisters Margaret Sylvester Chesebrough and Mary Sylvester in 1754.
Although Abigail’s portrait seems to be of her in her own dress, it appears that for the sisters he had come to Newport with
canvases already painted with faceless ladies in romantic settings so that he could, when convenient, add the visage of a
paying customer with little inconvenience. From Newport he went to Boston where he successfully found other subjects among
the New England aristocracy. Blackburn eventually returned to England. The Sylvester sisters’ portraits were given to the
Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1916 by Mary’s descendent, General Sylvester Dering (2nd). Abigail Chesebrough’s
painting now resides at the Art Institute of Chicago. [Boonstra, Ibid., July 2002, pages 230-231]
• The French and Indian War began in 1754 because of a dispute between the English and the French over the Ohio River
territory and the allegiance of Native Indian nations there. The war lasted until 1766. The most significant aspects of the
war for the future of the colonies were that George Washington learned how to lead men and the conscripted men learned
to hate their British officers whose military methods were cruel and arbitrary. When they returned home, they carried their
hatred of their British officers into every town and village.
19
• Mark Hanking Wentworth (1709-1785) was the father of Governor John Wentworth. [Wentworth Genealogy, Pages
319-322, XXIX]
Book: 1
Number: 15
Date: 6/21/1755
To: Thomas Dering
From: Mark Hanking
Wentworth
Place: Portsmouth
Portsmouth June 21, 1755
Dear Sir
I received your favor of Garrick. I shall send you half the balance of my note
in sugar as you direct, as for cotton we have not a bag at present for sale.
The first that comes in, if can be purchased to your limitation, will engage
it. I can furnish you with the best West Indies rum at 28 if that will suit. You
must let me know by return of the carrier if it will answer, as shall hold it till
then. I am of opinion it will answer better than cotton as Clive knows but to
be had under easy [-]. I am extremely obliged for the bond insurance of your
favor to my children and your kind advice and counsel to them as occasion
will be adding to the obligations past. I hope to have the pleasure of you and
my good friends at commencement. Tell them and always believe me to be
with the highest regard, Sir, your most humble servant.
• Nathaniel Ray Thomas was born at Marshfield, Massachusetts and graduated from Harvard in 1751. He was fifth in
descent from the settler William Thomas. The Thomases had served the town of Marshfield and the colony in many ways
over the years, as assistant governors, representatives to the General Court, judges, and selectmen. [Krusell, Cynthia Hager and
Betty Magown Bates, Marshfield, A Town of Villages, 1640-1990, page 14-15]
• Nat, as he was called, married Thomas’s sister Sarah in 1754. Although they would have eight children, they as yet had
none. His congratulations are for Thomas’s decision to marry Mary Sylvester of Newport and Shelter Island. He was also
discussing the disposition of the slave, Asher.
Book: 1
Number: 18
Date: 1/2/1755
To: Thomas Dering
From: Nathaniel Ray
Thomas
Place: Marshfield
Dear Brother
I imagine by this you are in part united to your object of your wishes. May
happiness attend you there. I should enlarge but my present company will not
admit. Shall write you soon more fully. Must now desire you to see something
concerning Asher that he is provided with a master. I think Witherhead is
likely or who you will judge fit. I with Mrs. Thomas love to you [--] brother N
Thomas Marshfield January 2 1755
• Nat Thomas farmed in Marshfield, Massachusetts, south of Boston, not far from Quincy. Nat, as he was known, found
having a Boston merchant as a brother-in-law quite convenient. In this letter he continued reacting to the news that Thomas
was about to be married, to tie the knot for eternal bliss or misery. James is also a slave.
Book: 1
Number: 16
Date: 1/9/1755
To: Thomas Dering
From: Nathaniel Ray
Thomas
Place: Marshfield
Dear Brother
Your letter this morning I received, which calls my attention to a different
theme; your near connection in a scene of life that will render the remainder
of your days either exquisitely miserable or unspeakably happy. News
that must naturally appeal to every considerate mind before an irreversible
determination and no doubt has to yours. The former may have an avert, the
latter sure must be the sincere wishes of your friends; this you may depend
upon, is very heartily desired by us. We wish that the close pursuit of a suitor
would give leisure for a visit to Marshfield.
As to [Asher] I’ve told him his conduct has not been such as that he could
expect my compliance with that promise, had not sundry things been
20
wanting to have validated the same. His impudence to his mischief and
particular conduct at that time, I had told him of, but he pretended to be
insensible of it. As to Mr. Goldthwaite, he is engaged but a month more to
Mr. Hitchens, he says when he may have him for a year, I believe he would
suit him very well. I’m glad you told him of his behavior. However do tell
him Miss Goldthwaite character and that I shall be in town in the spring
when he may see me. If he intends to have him, do desire Mr. Goldthwaite
to write me concerning it. I should be glad you would not mention anything
to your family concerning what we say relating to Asher. Do return our
compliments, centuplicated to say we hope she will be a neighbor though 36
miles distant.
As to your watch, I’ve broke the key and sent it by James. Whatever charge
I’ll reimburse and do send one on to them by James. I am the same sincere
and affectionate brother Nat Thomas
• At 4:30 in the morning, on November 18, 1755, there was a “shock,” which was attributed to God’s wrath. It was,
indeed, an earthquake, the most severe ever recorded on the East Coast. It was possibly 6.0 to 6.3 on the present-day Richter
scale. It was centered about 24 miles off the coast of Cape Ann in the northeast corner of Massachuetts, and was felt from
Nova Scotia to South Carolina. No one died, but we do know from letters in the Michigan collection, that Nat Thomas’s
chimney fell down.
Book: M (Michigan)
Number: 26
Date: 11/18/1755
To: Thomas Dering
From: Nat Thomas
Place: Marshfield
Dear Brother
I think it an infinite mercy of God that we survived the last night’s
tremendous shock, which we had been most sensibly affected with, for one
of my parlor chimneys was shook down the poise of which upon the house
and within the rooms joined to the roaring of the sea greatly affected my
dear Mrs. Thomas and Mrs. Gooch with the whole house and very justly
too. We are anxious to hear from our friends and do let Mr. Gooch know I
write you and she is well. Our house was greatly shaken, the table and chairs
and everything was shocking but no more until we see you. Don’t fail of ye
watch and money per James. Ye wood has been loaded 10 days but the wind
is not yet right and him have wrote for sundry but tea. Do tell Henry to send
per James and whatever is got ready of ye last memorandum and do send
me two [-] of bricks per Bisbee to rebuild my chimney. Tell Mr. Wentworth I
hope in a few days to have a vessel loaded with 30 cord of wood. I am your
affectionate brother NT. Mrs. Thomas would have wrote, but has not yet
composed herself.
Book: 1
Number: 22
Date: 1/2/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Ray Thomas
Place: Marshfield
Dear Brother
I had wrote you yesterday by our neighbor Arnold. He not ready, now send
the same by Ye bearer. Have nothing to add except to send for the money due
from Mr. Fletcher for [-]. Order him to get it for you, which must pray you
to keep till I shall order 6 or 7 cord of wood to be delivered you, which must
pray you to get the cash for tis choice wood though, none from my estate but
what is put on board for me from persons that owe it me. So must desire the
family may not know any of those things from time to time as I order them
for reason I can say when I’ve had the pleasure of seeing you which I desire
may not be long for it. I am your affectionate brother N. Thomas
21
Notes: Shaded icons indicate authors of letters in Dering Letters, Shelter Island Historical
Society (2014).
Cup icons indicates owners of the silver cup made in Boston, circa 1694, by Samuel Haugh
(1675/6-1717), and sold at Christie’s January18-19, 2001, New York.
Sources: Robb Haywood tree, Packer-Drake family, Ancestry.com); Christie’s sales report for
the Haugh cup, www.christies.com/LotFinder/LotDetailsPrintable.aspx?IntObjectID=1980629
(visited 3/19/2014); George Munson Curtis, Florence Virginia Paull Berger, American Church
Silver of the Seventeenth and Eighteenth Centuries (Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, 1911), pp.
48-53 (Edwards family); Boston Marriages 1752-1780 (Roy Bacon transcriber) (marriage of
Joseph and Hepzibah Edwards); Bogas-Althouse-Sherwin-Lowry and Samans/Kaub/Fowles/
Hogan/Western/Campbell/Bargmann Group Sheets, Ancestry.com (visited 4/12/2014) (Storer
family); Smith-Carter Family Papers,1669-1880, Massachusetts Historical Society; Massachusetts
Marriages, 1695-1910 (marriage of William Smith and Hannah Carter), Family Search.org
(Smith-Carter family).
22
23
If your man and woman is worth taking will have ‘em soon
• Thomas’s sister Elizabeth was married to Samuel Wentworth of New Hampshire and “T” was their son. The earthquake
was just two months before this and it remained the talk of the entire Boston area.
• Hepzi was Hepzibah Small (1714-1817), Thomas’s first cousin. His mother Elizabeth Packer and Hepzi’s mother
Susanna Packer were sisters. Hepzi was named after her grandmother Hepzibah Drake who married Colonel Thomas Packer.
Hepzi in 1756 was a 42 year old spinster lady who was most probably living with her Dering cousins in the brick house on
Queen Street.
24
Book: 1
Number: 21
Date: 1/16/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: T Wentworth
Place: Portsmouth
Dear Uncle
Portsmouth January 16, 1756
Pray be kind enough to send me by Gerrish Mr. Winthrop’s lecture upon
earthquakes. I think I signed for three. Will pay you the cost when I come
to Boston. The day I got here my mother had a young boy come to town a
month or two before, it’s time occasioned by the dreadful earthquake. It [-]
16 days, pray give my duty to Uncle and Aunt Thomas and to Miss Hepzi.
Tell Miss Hepzi I have put Jack in mind to send her money. He says has got
his hogs heads almost filled. Hepzi was here some time ago but was not kind
enough to come and see me. Dear Uncle, I am yours T Wentworth
Book: 1
Number: 20
Date: 1/16/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Sarah Dering
Thomas
Place: Marshfield
Dear Brother
Mr. Thomas is gone into the woods and our Irish men have this moment told
me they are going aboard. That I have but one moment to beg the favor of
you to send me in the jars that I have sent after by them, one full of Oyle for
the lamps and the other filled with Oyle for to mix our paints with. Pray do
not omit the former for we burn up our candles so fast that I am afraid they
will not last us till we have more tallow. as we live so in the country. I do not
choose to sleep without a light. I have wrote you by Mr. Winslow, but whether
he is gone yet or no I cannot tell for there is no opportunity certain here. But
I must conclude for they wait with only adding that I am expecting to see you
every day, so with the pleasing prospect, subscribe myself your affectionate
sister Sarah Thomas
Marshfield January 16, 1756
Book: 1
Number: 24
Date: 1/19/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Nat Thomas
Place: Marshfield
Dear Brother
The short time I’ve to write will not admit of my enlarging any further then
to say must I pray you to know fully the character of the man and woman
you’ve wrote me of and to let Mr. Wentworth know it, as he had talked with
him and thought he would not do for reasons he can tell you. If you find
they’ll suit us to let us know their price by the bearer as we can give you an
answer in a few days. We want such a couple and if no material objections
do let us know as we shall soon dismiss Tom and Mary. If they will suit
don’t let them engage themselves till you here again. Concerning Asher I
must trouble you more than I choose but as a friend, I hope will excuse me.
You may tell him that if he’ll continued to serve me till his last Dec twelve
months I’ll give him his freedom signed before Whitney[?] provided he’ll go
out of the government as I must give more security than I should charge if
he continues here. Must pray you to let him know in full the bonds I shall be
obliged to give and as to my prior promise ‘tis thought I ought to comply
with and indeed I’m nevermore to see him to be any trouble from that I’m
content. But more as to the particular, when I’ve the pleasure of seeing you,
which I think we’ve a right to expect from our friendship, do pardon the
incorrectness of this, and believe me to be your sincere affectionate brother
Thomas
Book: 1
Number: 26
Date: 1/19/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Sarah Dering
Thomas
Place: Marshfield
Dear Brother
As I suppose by this time, you are got back from Newport. I embrace this
opportunity to write and first I would begin with the compliment of the
season and wish you a happy new year. And as you are just upon concluding
an affair of so great importance, I wish it may be a happy year indeed
to you and now, though I am under many obligations for favors received
I must again trouble you with begging the favor of you to inquire at the
manufactory house how much they ask for weaving a yard of cloth for our
spinner is now a spinning us some new cloth and I think they ask me very
dear for weaving here and we have a great deal of wool, which I should be
glad you would ask what they would have for spinning for she cannot spin it,
and some people tell us it is cheaper to sell the wool and buy what we want
for clothing. I want of a pair of cotton sheets but she cannot spin the cotton
and nobody here can weave it wide enough, I believe.
Pray let me know what they asked for weaving cloth of different fineness and
width. I have five skeins of worsted, which I got spun here and the woman
charged 28 shillings for spinning it besides the scouring. I should be glad to
know whether that was dear. I have sent you four skeins and should be glad
if you would get Mrs. Miller to knit it for Mr. Thomas for he has hardly any
stockings but what takes me a day to mend if he wears them any few hours.
But I believe they will turn out much dear than if he has bought them of
Esther. Pray be so good as to send me 1000 of your Middlesex pins by James
and let me hear whether you desire us a visit before you are married. Indeed
I hardly expect if you are so much taken up at present, but whenever you can
find leisure you know there is no one that can receive you with more pleasure
than your most affectionate sister Sarah Thomas
PS Henry got some lace burnt for me by Miller and I made him a collar
over which I should be glad if you would ask Henry whether he ever got. I
designed it to pay him for that handkerchief I had of him, but he has not got
it pray let him to get Miller to burn what I now send by James, and I will give
him the rest when I see him for I hope to have a visit from him soon. yours
ST
While I was writing I received your letter of the 6 instant and am greatly
obliged to Mr. Goldthwaite for his repeated goodness and continued
friendship as I am likewise to you and pray you to return my compliments
to Miss Sylvester when you see her. I doubt not her goodness in being very
glad to entertain me at her house and I need not sure tell you I believe yours,
but if I should not keep with Mrs. Gooch the next time I come down, that
is if you are married as I believe you will be, you know her temper and I
fear it would make a very great breach. I have had an invitation from Mrs.
Wentworth, but though she think and I ought to keep with her as she was so
25
good as to take a winter journey to see me, so when nobody else would, still
she is willing to give up as she knows the consequence. But I hope my coming
to town, if I should ever live to again, will not be the cause of any uneasiness.
But sure I am greatly obliged to you all for your repeated invitation and you
must need think let me keep where I will. It will not be as it used to be and
especially if I keep at one place, which I need not mention to you as you
know just how much satisfaction I shall have, but let you think what you
will they think it would appear very odd to the eyes of the world as well as
to them, if I should keep with a sister-in-law that she was ever so agreeable
before one of my own sisters. But more of this when we meet. You can’t but
think I still and ever shall remember the obligations I am under to you so
greatfully acknowledged it as opportunity offers, and hope you will believe
me to be as ever your most affectionate sister to command, Sarah Thomas
26
Book: 1
Number: 25
Date: 1/20/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Sarah Dering Thomas
Place: Marshfield
Dear Brother
I received yours of the 12 instant where in you mentioned my letter having
no date. I suppose it might be my great hurry that I commonly write in for
when I write by James, I am glad to answer all my letters, which takes me
more time then I well can spare, and when I write by other opportunities I
have but very short warning. I wish I could come as you desire before you
are married and make you a visit but I am afraid I shall not be able for Mr.
Thomas thinks his business will not admit of his leaving home till April
and by that time I suppose you will not only be married, but have our sister
home. But I will hope here for it seems as though she, to use Mr. Hitchins
words, would be jar in our harmony, which I would by no means have you
imagining that I think, for you know I have no personal acquaintance with
her, but from her general character in life. I doubt not butshe is altogether
as agreeable as you think her but what I say you should not take as anything
relating to her but only as the outward appearances of things to the world
and in general as well as to those that is near related. Then she will be, but
no more of this, til we are so happy as to meet, which I can’t help flattering
myself will be June, either here or in town. You say one day is too short a
time for you to do all our business in when James comes to town. Indeed I
am very sorry we are obliged to give you so much trouble especially at this
present time, when without doubt you have business enough to employ your
time of your own. But must beg you would send me the pins I wrote you for,
and you will very much obliged your affectionate sister to command.
Book: 1
Number: 23
Date: 1/30/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Nat Thomas
Place: Marshfield
Dear Brother
Your favors of ye 23 and 24th instant I now take this opportunity to answer.
If Asher coming to home I now say we have both talked to and I’ve told him
what I last wrote you. He seems rather to cause to tarry with us the year,
but we’ve not determined to let him till we’ve heard your and our friends
opinions upon it. He behaves very well, Mrs. Thomas thinks that from ye
present situation of our family, he may be of service to us at present which
if you think likewise do advise him as to the last year he is ever to leave to
conduct accordingly to divert him from an answer have told him that you are
endeavoring to get us one in his stead. I could not tell him whether you had
promised us one or not, so you will let him know the contrary. As to the man
and woman I wrote concerning, you make no mention in yours if you think
that they will do. I should be glad to know. I have him write me his terms or
take a trip down to settle the conditions with me. Do send me two of your
cotton handkerchiefs, two dozen of brass chafe nails and I’ll write more in
the next few days. Your brother Nat Thomas Do let Mr. Henry know the
opportunity to me.
• It is clear that in 1756, the colonists had an instrument that told the time, which they called a watch. In this case, it hung
from a nail by Nat’s bed.
Book: 1
Number: 32
Date: 2/1/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Nat Thomas
Place: North Hampton
Book: 1
Number: 28
Date: 2/2/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Nat Thomas
Place: Marshfield
Book: 1
Number: 27
Date: 2/3/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Sarah Thomas
Place: Marshfield
Book: 1
Number: 30
Date: 2/6/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Joseph Green, Jr.
Place: Newberry
Yours of 7th instant [---] and had answered it by Mr. Winslow who was to
set out last Monday but he has not yet so have set that aside and now write
you that I should be glad to know when you go to Newport to be married. As
to the man and woman I think we must have ‘em to try as we aren’t like not
to get any body. We expected him down to have talked with me (in Weston)
to let us know as we are anxious and shall order our spinning accordingly.
Do make him come down. Asher is arrived and behaves well. We are both
very unwell with great colds and Nat grows so fast you won’t know him
without you come to see him before you go to Newport we are yours very
affectionately and [---] If you know of any good wine and if so do let us
know first.
Dear Brother
As great as our care of the watch was, it has met with a fall from the nail
where we hung it by the bedside. The child was the cause often obliging
us to get up in ye night. It will go anyway, except laying it on the back and
keep time very well. However, must pray you to get it regulated with the
key and send by the bearer. Mrs. Thomas received yours yesterday but this
opportunity being [-] will answer it. We are united by you N Thomas
Dear Brother
Not knowing the tide would serve and the weather be fair this evening, I
thought to have wrote you more at-large but Asher says he is obliged to go
this moment, that I have but just time to say I received your letter by Crocker
and though you are in debt a letter to me you need not to have reminded me
that we are not to stand upon ceremony with each other, for I do assure you I
never shall for I always write when I have an opportunity if it be but one line.
Mr. Thomas wrote you yesterday and I wrote to Hepzi by Mr. Green relating
to the bearer of this, which I must beg your advice about as soon as possible
and pray let us know about the man and woman you were to get for us and
let me know about the spinning and weaving, and you will very much obliged
your obliged and most affectionate sister to command Sarah Thomas
Marshfield’s February 3, 1756 remember me to all friends for Asher awaits
Newberry 6 February 1756
Dear Sir
I arrived here the same day I set out and did not find things as I could have
desired, by which I shall be detained something longer than I expected,
though I expect to set out from here Monday morning next. I would desired
you to see Capt. Phillips and let him know that I shall not be at home until
27
Monday evening or Tuesday and desire him [and] William Culliver, his mate,
to engage what freight they care, and if it should happen in your way, hope
you will recommend a freight to that [-]. I should be obliged if you can sell
50 or 60 hogshead of claret for me before I come home. Remember me to all
friends. I remain certain your humble servant Joseph Green
Tell Capt. Leggett to engage what freight he can for the sloops
Book: 1
Number: 29
Date: 2/6/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Sarah Thomas
Place: Marshfield
Dear Brother
Since you will not favor us with a visit before you are married, Mr. Thomas
talks of obliging me so far if he possibly can to make you a short visit if you
will let us know exactly when you think you shall go to conclude the happy
affair. I hope it will be and doubt it not, but as this is very uncertain, must beg
it may not be mentioned for there will be a great many difficulties attending
our coming, and if we should come, it would be wholly owing to Mr.
Thomas’s goodness to oblige me, but as the extraordinary remarkable fine
weather we have had for so long a spell, may make us expect a little winter at
last so may perhaps be prevented our present intentions. But at present am
pleasing myself with the thoughts of it. For I long to come and take my leave
of the old mansion before you forsake it, and as you very well know, it must
be a greater pleasure and satisfaction than my summer visit may depend
upon my doing my endeavors for it in the meantime believe me I be as ever
your affectionate sister Sarah Thomas
• The following letter reports on the families of three of Thomas’s sisters: Mary Gooch, Anne Monk, and Elizabeth
Wentworth.
Book: 1
Number: 31
Date: 2/15/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Jay Wentworth
Place: Portsmouth
Dear Sir
Portsmouth February 15, 1756
I am at a loss to apologize or in what manner to beg excuses for not
answering in season your most agreeable favor, which I am sorry to find
there’s date of [-] not yet gratefully acknowledged by me. I cannot plead
the hurry of business for though I have had it yet should not willingly have
omitted it on account of the most urgent in short, Sir, I cannot find any
excuse for not doing it, and what still aggravates the thing is that I’ve all along
been sensible that writing you would be attended with the [--] satisfaction to
me and what the cause of this my unaccountable neglect is I cannot tell, as I
am convinced of the sincerity of my esteem to you.
But this I promise, that if you will excuse me this once I will do better here
after. Since this open confession of myself, and as I have been the loser by it
and am fully sensible of it, I must hope your good nature it will plead pardon
for me, as I assure you that I am sincerely sorry for my neglect. And now as
I have so powerful an advocate as I’ve experienced your good nature to be, I
assure myself of your excuse and without further apology proceed to answer
your letter, which should have been done long since. I am much obliged
to you for the kind regard you express of my health and your generous
invitation and proposal to retrieve it, which do assure you would have exactly
28
suited my inclination to have accepted as there was and is nothing I so much
desire as to pay my friends a visit in Boston. But if I should have done this
I know it would have helped me and then when I returned to Portsmouth
I should again decline for want of the same remedy namely the friendly
cheerfulness and company of my friends. This visit I greatly desire and
intend to make in the spring, if anything won’t intervene.
I intended, when at Boston, to have wrote you a long epistle of my journey,
and other remarkables, but do assure you that parting from my acquaintance
makes me so melancholy that when I got home, I had but little mind to do
anything in so much that I did not for a week even visit my relations. So it’s
reply and put it more be that odd that anything should affect me so much
but really a separation from acquaintance whose kind compliance to me was
so great as was yours, my Uncle Wentworth, Mr. Gooch, their families and
without any prospect of retaliation, was not a pleasant scene to me at least
who would be very happy in having an opportunity to show that I am not
unmindful of their favors but as returns for kind usage is better expressed
by actions than words I shall say no more of it at present except that I wish
them all the happiness due to their desserts which is certainly very much --Before this, I hope you’ve had the satisfaction to hear of Mrs. Monk’s safe
arrival at Halifax with her children. When I saw that part of your letter
which tells of her sailing I could not forbear being sorry to find her again
exposing herself to hardships as surely she deserves a better fate than this.
Believe me, Sir, there is nothing I should esteem more than a continued
correspondence with you as my leisure and inclination are always at your
command. But that I may not trespass further on your time at present, I
conclude desiring my compliments to Miss Hepzi and all other my friends, I
am your most obliged humble servant, Jay Wentworth
PS I wish you joy, if not too late, of your nephew
• Thomas Dering married Mary Sylvester in Newport on March 9, 1756. This next letter was addressed to him there.
• Sarah (1735- ____), the daughter of Elizabeth (Dering) and Samuel Wentworth, married James Apthorpe.
Book: 1
Number: 35
Date: 3/10/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Small
Place: Boston
Boston March 10, 1756
Dear Coz
I am very glad to hear you are well after the fatigue of your journey, and
if you are a married man when this reaches you, I wish you all the joy that
you expect and my compliments to the lady. If you think properly, your
family is all well, I am the worst in it. I am not very well. Mrs. Thomas left
us Tuesday morning and I have been very malingerly ever since. Saturday
night just after dark, we were surprised by the cry of fire and when I went
to the door and found it was the top of James Apthorp’s house. You may
well think what a surprise I was in well thinks I, Coz will come home and
find his house demolished, so must live in the Manse, at least the particulars
that I shall leave till I see you, if ever I do. It was the chimney was afire,
the engines was there in a moment. No damage is done, only they have lost
all their [-] and Tuesday morning at 5 o’clock we were alarmed with the
cry of fire. The dock of the man of war’s kitchen was burnt down. I heard
29
them cry fire. It woke me out of my sleep I got up and opened the window
and found it was not near us and then run into Mr. Greens chamber, who I
found fast asleep but waked him, but he did not go out because of his hand.
I expect Col. Dickenson in town this night but can’t get a pair of sheets
if he should come and I hear he is to lodge here. While I am writing, Mr.
Goldthwaite comes in sends his compliments to you and your lady.
You were casket bearer to Miss Nancy Phillips. It was a grand funeral. As to
Sea News and about Mad Cap, I shall refer you to Mr. Green and remain
your cousin at command Hepzi Small
Pray do not take any notes to anybody that I wrote you about Apthorp’s
house being afire, It was only the chimney.
• Thomas remained in Newport
Book: 1
Number: 37
Date: 3/12/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Joshua Winslow
Place: Chignecto (Isthmus
bordering New Brunswick and
Nova Scotia)
.
Chigneto 12 March 1756
I heartily congratulate you, my dear Tommy, on your present happiness.
To begin my letter upon any other subject would discover, I think, at least
in some degree, a want of that sincere friendship, which I profess for you
,or that I am not sensibly affected with whatever gives my friend a pleasure;
especially that pleasure which must arise from a cause, so delicate, so tender,
so desirable as love. And more especially when that passion is governed by
judgment, prudence and an unalterable affection; to an amiable object. Such,
I conceived to be the situation of my friend Mr. Dering at present; and for
that reason, I can easily forgive his neglect of writing to me so long. I don’t
know how I might have been influenced, was in the same situation, which
I conceive you to have been in for these several months past. But it is very
probable a limititude [-] affections, might have actuated our passions, much
in the same manner.
But, though it has not in all respects, been my case; since you have so freely
discovered your sentiments to me, I will not be diffident of reposing in your
breast what I choose should be a secret, to all the world, except three or four
particular friends; which is that I have a vast esteem, for that same nameless
Miss you dined with somewhere; nor will I pretend to deny, it’s being of a
long-standing. But I am afraid it will turn out an unhappy passion at last. I
see no prospect of that happiness, my dear Tommy, which you had in view of
consummating in a few weeks when you wrote last; perhaps at this time may
be in possession of. So far from it that though the duration of my passion has
been longer already, than the 10 years siege of Troy; or the twice seven years,
that Jacob served for Rachel, I have only a remote prospect, and that I fear
but badly grounded, of ever obtaining the object of my wishes. However,
I won’t despair yet, one effort more may be made and who knows but a
happy consequence may attend it. I hope to have the pleasure of seeing New
England, again in a few months; I do assure you I pose to myself a particular
happiness in being admitted into the number of Mrs. Dering’s friends, and
I desire you won’t omit an opportunity, after you receive this, of making my
best compliments acceptable to her, in a most respectful manner.
I don’t know when this may reach you, perhaps the vessel by which I intend
30
it may not sail this week. But whenever it arrives, I hope it will meet you in
perfect health as well as happiness. I have not been over stocked with the
blessings of the former this winter. This place does not afford exercise and
amusement enough for which reason I could wish a remove, but then intent
commands my stay and must be obliged, however I am determined upon
spending my next winter in New England, if I live I can accomplish.
Be so kind as to make my compliments to Miss Small. I am much [-] that my
same journey, I shall be much disappointed if she fails in her engagement. I
hope Mrs. Thomas’s house enjoy their health when you see them I beg my
kind remembrances.
I shall be very glad to hear from you frequently and if you continue to
neglect me after you have fulfilled your present engagement, I shall make a
complaint against you in form. That you may be happy in all your wishes, is
very sincere that, of my dear Tommy. Your affectionate friend and faithful [-]
servant, Joshua Winslow
Book: 1
Number: 33
Date: 3/19/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Small
Place: Boston
Boston March 19
Dear Coz
I have left my ironing board to write to you. I intended not to write when
your brother Green informed me that you intended to come home next
week, but as you desired me to write I have sent you a few lines. You seem
to have little to say to me and I less to you for there is no news that I hear of,
nobody married nor nobody buried. Last night I received a letter from Sally
and have answered it today by Col. Winslow.
You asked me if I have been to see William Phillips. I have been nowhere
since you left home but to meeting only last night. Love came in and see me
all alone and had companion [-] and made me go to his house. He come
twice for me before I went. I have not time to write you how Sally found her
family when she got home, but Mary had run away and Tom run after her
so they are both gone. I sent your gloves as you desired and wrote to Mr.
Kitchen but have not heard from him yet. I believe you are tired of reading
nothing so shall finish with saying all your friends send their compliments to
Mr. and Mrs. Dering.
Mr Gooch and Col. Hinchman know their compliments are being present
when I received yours. Mr. Green said you were to stay a month when you
went away. Now he tells me you are to be at home next week. Mr. Anthorpe
is moved. Col. Albertson has left a message for you, which I shall deliver
when I see you. He charged me to after he was mounted, which is all I have
to say at present but remain your friend and [-] at command Hepzi Small
Book: 1
Number: 34
Date: 3/19/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Joseph Green, Jr.
Place: Boston
Dear Sir
Boston 19 March 1756
Your favor I received the 17th which gives me great pleasure as I am thereby
informed of the celebration of your nuptials and be assured you have not any
friend that can more sincerely wish you happiness than your humble servant.
Please to make my compliments as is due to your good lady and I wish her
31
joy though hope it will not be long before I shall have the pleasure of doing
it myself in person. I think of you very often and make myself very happy
in thinking and knowing that you are more so now than you ever was before,
which upon my word affords me great pleasure and tranquility as I can’t but
rejoice when you are happy and grieve to see you under any affliction. I am
told by all my friends that I now must be obliged to marry and that as Mr.
Dering has shown me the way they now have a great reason to think that I
shall act more as though I were now in earnest than I ever have done. Upon
which I wrote you to look out for a companion for me as you know what will
suit me. I have only to desire that you would get me the best in the world and
I believe such a one will suit me as well as any. All friends are well. J
And send their compliments to you and Mrs. Dering and particularly my
father and mother. Mrs. Storer and Betts send love. Regards compliments etc.
etc. etc. to you and Lady I shall be very glad to see you but should be more so
if Mrs. Dering was to have come with you. I hope I shall have the pleasure
to see your lady before I go for Halifax. I have at last heard of Metcalf,
he has got into New London and that he was lost and almost gave up the
thought of ever hearing from him anymore. My scow sailed for Halifax the
8th March for this port but is not arrived, nor have heard anything from her.
Nesley that sailed 3 days after her arrived a day past. Col. Winslow, to the
great joy of all his friends and indeed to the great joy of everybody, is safe
arrived here from Halifax and is as hearty and well as he has been these 20
years and quite gay, cheerful and ready to go upon next campaign. I do not
remember anything new to write you and remain with great regards and
my best wishes for you your most sincere friend and humble servant, Joseph
Green Junior
• Thomas and his brother Henry, merchants in Boston, imported goods from England and Europe when the British crown
permitted it. Their major supplier was the London firm of Lane and Booth. The cost of their goods included insurance, which
was determined by the reliability of the convoy the ship carrying the goods traveled with, Spring, Summer, or Fall. Convoys
were initiated out of both English and European ports.
Book: 1
Number: 38
Date: 4/6/1756
To: Thomas and Henry Dering
From: Lane & Booth
Place: London
32
Misters Thomas and Henry Dering
London
6 April 1756
Gentlemen
A few days since in receipt of your favor of the 18 February by Capt. Smith
and note the goods sent you by Capt. Bruce had reached your hands and
that they proved in general to satisfaction, are sorry to find our packer made
a mistake in putting up the coalings. Shall take care that what we send
you in future shall be [-] with awhile that you would always have the right
to [Ticklenberg] instead of the sort usually sent to your place. As to the
[Cambridge], it is an article that seldom or ever we are able to give our friend
satisfaction in though our best endeavors we assure you and wanting to please
them but the dealers in that article are not to be depended on, as we find by
experience, and that are changing hands upon receiving complaints from
our hundreds and if not all mind the smaller however you may depend that
with executing any new commission you may endeavor for this article we will
make you amends if possible. Messrs Pedro Beckvelt and Sons have remitted
us £70.1 sterling for the cash. Capt. Coppinger sent them from [Ferro],
which is placed to your credit and when they are in cash for the produce
of your hundred and six Quin hulls of fish would the mill as this same less
£20.0.3 sterling which they are first to pay to the order of Mr. North Holmes
when rise you shall be duly advised. We note your compliance with the
proposal we made you for shipping you and annual supply of spring and fall
goods from this place.
As to the order you have now sent us for spring goods. Tis come unto late by
three months for us to ship to you in the season. The spring had being almost
all over and all the early ships in the dunes waiting for convoy, therefore
shall not attempt the doing anything and give you this early notice of our
resolution and the packet via New York that you may furnish yourselves
spring goods out of the cargoes of the first ships that may come with you
after the receipt of this.
Your fall order shall be shipped with first fall ships but it’s out of our power
to [-] time of their [-] from hence. That will depend upon them having
convoy on of the channel. The danger is so great that we shall not attempt
sending a single ship away without such convoy when [--] as his failing crews
shall credit you for the return of two [--] you are to have back on the[-]
made on goods of them for channel convoy. In the course of our future
correspondence please do not ----] your orders for spring ..
Book: 1
Number: 39
Date: 4/7/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Sarah Thomas
Place: Marshfield
I received your letter by James and take this opportunity to congratulate you
upon your entrance into the happy state of matrimony, which it may prove a
happy state indeed to you and that you may be more and more conscious of
it every day you live. Pray return my proper regards to your lady and let her
know if she will do us the favor of a visit. We shall receive her with a great
deal of pleasure and will do everything in our power to make our retired
habitation as agreeable as possible to her. As you say there has many strange
things happen since I was in town, almost as strange as you being married
yourself for indeed I can hardly realize now that you are. Pray do you think
our Coz Nabby Ellen has acted wisely for if I mistake not I have heard he is a
very odd tempered man. As for Mrs. Tolman, I think it appears like a pretty
match but I thought he was determined never to marry again. Poor Nancy
King. I wish she may not fling herself away. I know not Mr. Smelt but my
opinion of her is that as Nabby is going to be married she will be to at all
events.
The lantern is going better but will not admit me to write a long letter for he
takes too much of my time up yet. So shall only add that I shall make great
dependence upon seeing you very soon with a pleasing prospect of which I
shall conclude with subscribing myself your most affectionate sister Sarah
Thomas
• People at this time socialized only with cousins and often did business only with cousins. However, the circle of cousins
was more broadly defined. When you married, your spouse’s cousins became not only your cousins but also your cousins’
cousins, which meant that the circle of kinsmen was often extraordinarily large. Over time, many others, in addition to Sarah
Mary Shurtless, will join Thomas and Mary’s circle.
33
Book: 1
Number: 40
Date: 4/10/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Mary Shurtless
Place: Portsmouth
Portsmouth April 10, 1756
Dear Coz
I have the pleasure of receiving a few lines from you after a profound
silence of more than six months for yours of the 31 March is the only I have
received since 8 September! But I forgive your neglect when I ponder the
business you was engaged in and now tell you that I do truly rejoice. You have
at last ventured your self in the marriage state and find yourself happy. May
it continue to your life’s and increase each day. I can find no one here which
has any knowledge of your lady but I dare trust your choice for an agreeable
person and hope by some means or another I shall be gratified in conversing
with Mrs. Dering. The thought of which gives me a pleasure. You may, if
you please, and think of it, give her joy from me in sincerity and health better
than compliments.
I am glad you have the money from Mrs. Pierce and I suppose you remember
what I told you she was to pay you. I hope you will be looking for something
for a gown for me and remember that I had none last year although it was
much talked of. I hoped you would have met with something that would have
suited me when you was looking for yourself for I hate to add to your trouble.
I am quite sorry I had not the half of Mrs. Havens pounds as I first thought
of. I shall be glad you’d send the paper money you have for I find I shall get
nothing for it here and Mrs. Luke Wentworth will be so good as to bring it for
me and I believe will take care of the silk if you can get one before he comes
away. I am dear Coz your friend and humble servant Mary Shurtless
• The following is probably from John Wentworth (baptized on August 14, 1736/7) who will eventually be appointed
Governor of New Hampshire by the Crown. His father was Mark Hunking Wentworth and his mother Elizabeth Rindye.
[Wentwirth Genealogy, pages 212, 322.]
Book: 1
Number: 41
Date: 4/21/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: John Wentworth
Place: Portsmouth
34
Portsmouth April 21st, 1756
Kind Sir
Two days since I had the pleasure of receiving your esteemed favor of
the 5th instant and do assure you that I am insufficiently convinced of my
error in omitting answering at the former proper season to hazards it in
the least now you would therefore had a reply to your last had it come to
hand sooner. Your apology for not answering my last in full even though I
had not sent you the example which as I confess it is a bad one. Hope you’ll
excuse it and never observe it. I am obliged to you for your kind invitation
to come to Boston for which I can want no inducement if you are there and
although my youth hinders my gaining many acquaintance yet believe me
sir are there some few families in town whose particularly kind complacence
I should rejoice to express by gratitude for at every opportunity and of those
be assured. Your family requires the sincerest return from me, which I hope
one day to be capable of offering in a more agreeable manner than by words
alone and until that must desire that you will believe I wait impatiently for the
time. Every time I read in your agreeable favor adds to my obligations and
while I would endeavor to return some, you render it impossible for me to
return all by conferring more on me I shall not therefore pretend even to his
knowledge the regard I have to them as I find they increase by recollection
and that they are mentioned of them would transgress on your time.
I congratulate you on the change you have made in your State and doubt
not of the completion of your happiness, which I wish may be long and
un-interrupted. And though when I was in Boston last, I thought you
entirely happy and shall joy to contradict my former opinion by finding you
doubly so now and that you are so the universal goodness of Mrs. Dering’s
character sufficiently ascertain I must pray you to pay my compliments of
congratulations to Mrs. Dering, which I am impatient of doing in person
on so happy an occasion that a visit to my friends at Boston would be very
agreeable to me.
I make not the least doubt and am obliged to you and Lady for your designs
of rendering it more indisputably so and though you think not in high taste
answer for me, do assure you if I could do anything from so agreeable a pain
it would be the contrary from what you hint of that as I value the friendship
of entertainment before the ceremony [cohose] settled but poorly as yet
though do not despair of seeing it a good place. I wish I could say mine,
but fear shall not get so high though I determine to go into the country and
perhaps there in my way toward Boston this spring. I intend to take the
lower [cohose] (as there is two) through which I intend to come by the way
of Dunstable, ever not will not be above 30 miles out of my way but of these
my rural designs I will tell you more at that happy time when I hope to take
you by the hand is no farther off than May. In the meantime, believed me
to be with all possible respect, your obliged friend obedience servant John
Wentworth
PS My father and mother present you their compliments and pray you make
them also to Mrs. Dering. My compliments await Mrs. Thomas, Miss Hepzi,
and other of my friends, which I must desire to have made acceptable by
being tendered by you which will again oblige you as before
Wentworth April 21, 1756
• Sarah Sargent was another cousin in the larger circle.
Book: 1
Number: 43
Date: 5/15/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Sarah Sargent
Place: Portsmouth
Dear Kinsman
Portsmouth May the 15th 1756
Hearing by way of our Boston friends that you were so happy as to be
joined in marriage to very agreeable young lady, take this opportunity to
congratulate you and from the very bottom of my heart and wish you all that
joy and happiness that is best for you. I believe I am the only person living
that was present at your birth and I think tomorrow will be your birthday
and I wish you joy on that occasion, too. I hope the God of heaven will bless
you both in temporal but more especially in spiritual affairs and may a long
life and a happy eternity be your everlasting portion. I beg you will make
my compliments acceptable to your spouse and rich with love to your sisters
Hanny and Hepzi. Subscribe your most obliged kinswoman Sarah Sargent
35
Book: 1
Number: 44
Date: 5/15/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Mary Shurtless
Place: Portsmouth
Dear Coz
Portsmouth May 15, 1756
I have the pleasure to hear by our friends Atkinson and Wentworth that your
lady is safely arrived at Boston. This is a satisfaction to all your friends and no
one of them (I am sure) is more pleased with anything that will add to your
comfort than I am. I [-] you did make my compliments agreeable to your
lady and assure her my best wishes are for her happiness. Mr. Wentworth tells
me he delivered my letter to you and I was in hopes you would have found
me a gown and the paper money, which is only in your way there and I am
in want of it here for I fear we must always have the trouble of paper money
with us. Young Rhymes is at Boston and will buy my wait on you and has
promise to bring anything you will send [-] and pray send me if bought a
gown and the paper money. I might have met with [-] here but have expected
you would get me one there. But your business would not allow you to look
and I conclude your business will increase with your family’s increase and
I am told that goods of all sorts are rising and I shall be quite sorry for that
for I have no money to throw away or lay dead. I must send to some other
person that has more time to serve a friend and if you have not bought
pray give the dollars I sent you with those you had of Mrs. Pierce to Mrs.
Dering for I have asked the favor of her to lay them out for your friend and
Kinswoman Mary Shurtless
Book: 1
Number: 42
Date: 5/21/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Sarah Thomas
Place: Marshfield
Dear Brother
I received your letter by James and by Mr. Green both of which should have
answered if had opportunity. I have not been unmindful of what was due
from me to Mrs. Dering as my elder brother’s wife since it was my misfortune
not to be able to pay my proper compliments by making her a visit and shall
gladly embrace, this being the first opportunity since I have the pleasure of
hearing from you, that she was got to her new habitation for indeed I did
not know but you had quite forgot us. It was so long before I heard from
you, but am very glad to find that you not only have not, but that you desire
us a visit, which I hope nothing will happen to prevent, as I think you need
nothing further as a proof to convince you. It will be the highest pleasure
and satisfaction as well to Mr. Thomas as your most affectionate sister to
command
Sarah Thomas
Marshfield May 21st, 1756
Book: 1
Number: 45
Date: 6/12/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Joshua Winslow
Place: Chigneto
36
Chigneto 12th of June 1756
I fully propose my dear Tommy to have wrote you by the first opportunity
that offered had I not been favored with a letter from you. The inducement
was to congratulate you and Mrs. Dering on your happy union, which I think
a negligence in me not to have done sooner. However I hope you’ll be good
enough to excuse me and accept my hearty wishes for your mutual happiness.
I am now to acknowledge the pleasure of yours dated June 22. And esteem
myself much obliged to you for your friendly wishes. How happy should
I have been could I have made one of the company in your visit to your
deserving sister at Marshfield. I can’t say I did not enjoy it in part for the
very night I heard of your having been there I was also there with you in my
dream. But how far short does such an enjoyment fall of the real happiness.
Yet even that also I hope to enjoy ere long if I live, as I am fully determined
on going to New England to make Mrs. Thomas a visit and if Hepzi behaves
herself well I shall stand to my engagement of gallivanting her there. Which
you will be good enough to put her in mind of. That is not possible for me to
do at present. When I may hope to see Boston but if my designs succeed I
may have that happiness in the fall. Many thanks to my dear Tommy for the
kind mention he makes of my deserving mistress. Everybody must value her
who knows her in estimable worth; she merits all the praises that can be given
her and many more than I have the felicity to bestow. I hope this will meet
you and Mrs. Dering in perfect health. I cannot say I have my own to my
wish. It is very sickly among our troops but we have not lost many lately. We
have no news from hence hope soon to hear of General Winslow’s success
against Crown Point. I wish you every happiness and with my compliments
to your lady, cousin Hanny and Hepzi. I beg leave to assure you that I am
with perfect sincerity your faithful [-] friend [-] Joshua Winslow
Book: 1
Number: 46
Date: 7/9/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Sarah Thomas
Place: Marshfield
Book: 1
Number: 47
Date: 7/29/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Sarah Thomas
Place: Marshfield
Dear brother I a little expected to have received a line from you when you
got home but as I have not can only say I hope you all got safe home And
found nothing here so very disagreeable but that you will make us another
visit before the pleasant season is over which we shall take as a very great
favor. Indeed I do not see what you can have at present to hinder you from
making us several except it be want of inclination. And now according
to the old Harry I must begin with my wants again but in the first place I
would say I am very sorry to give you the trouble and hope before it is long
I shall have it in my power to do more of my business myself and trouble
my friends less but must now beg the favor of you to send the yarn you have
to the manufactory to be wove for a tick for we have not beds enough to use
and have feathers suffering for want of something to put them in as likewise
the fine yarn to be woven in a piece by itself. I have not time to enlarge for
Rabbyshan awaits so must only beg my brother regards to Mrs. Dering which
Mr. Thomas joins me in and conclude your affectionate sister S Thomas
Marshfield July 9, 1756
Dear Brother
Marshfield July 29, 1756
I would first congratulate you upon your removal to your new house. I wish
it may prove more agreeable than the old one. And now would return you
my thanks for your kind invitation. When I shall come to town. I know not,
for at present see no prospect of it but when I do you know my engagement,
though that does not in the least lessen my obligations to you for your most
kind and good offer. You desire I would let you know what was to be done
with the remaining part of the course yarn at your house. I desire it for
cotton and lining as same as I can get some more spun so shall be obliged to
you to let it lay for the present. Hope you mentioned their whiting the yarn
for the tip for if you did not I am afraid they will put it in Brown as it is a fine
yarn that it is spun in a piece by it self should be glad they would whiting
before they send it home for they can do it much better then we can. I am
very glad to hear you desire us a visit before cold weather and believe I need
not repeatedly assure you it will be giving us a great deal of pleasure, which is
what offers at present from your affectionate sister S Thomas
37
Book: 1
Number: 48
Date: 8/25/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: John Nelson
Place: Portsmouth
Dear Sir
It was very disagreeable to me to leave Boston so soon as it deprived me the
pleasure of taking that satisfaction with my friend that I could have wished.
I was obliged to end my engagement to you contrary to my inclination and
was sorry I had not the opportunity to say my compliments to the lady who
has undoubtedly made you happy in that most agreeable’s stage of life, which
they tell us we ought to date our happiness from. To make up for my neglect
I think your house shall be the second I call at my next visit, which shall be
somewhat longer if possible but the pleasure you know much on ought to
give way to business especially young fellows. I would drop lute string by
Mr. Griffith as no opportunity offers so soon and here involves you bill of
parcels for the same. [I choose -money] of Old [E-] will suit me as well as
our own currency. Dollars are so uncertain [-] according to the demand
there is for them that I know not what they will [-] for. I should not incline to
take for more than 85%. I have all along sold this silk at the rate of one and
a half dollars, which I now charge you without any addition on account of
war [--]. Mr. Hutchinson was [-] an [-] then dollars was. I am with my best
compliments to your lady dear Sir your most humble servant John Nelson
Portsmouth
August 25, 1756
Dear Sir
I understand by your sister you’ve removed. I wish you success in all your
undertakings. I hope the interruptions of a new mansion will give you the
leisure to settle your father’s estate and your sister’s proportion will be of real
service to us well wishing brother Ray Thomas 23 July 1756
• Think of this sentence and imagine it: “Mr. Thomas says he saw your brother Chesebrough well in the street but they only
exchanging hats so he cannot tell how the family did.” A ritual of greeting that did not include speaking!
Book: 1
Number: 49
Date: 8/14/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Sarah Thomas
Place: Marshfield
Dear Brother
Mr. Thomas is just got home from his journey to Newport where he has
bought drove of fat cattle but having not yet disposed of them should be
glad you would get me some few necessaries, which we are in want of for the
family. But Mr. Thomas does not choose to send for any more things upon
credit until he has discharged those accounts he has open having a prospect
of doing it in a short time, which is James business to town at this time to
see about a market for the cattle and get us a few necessaries for the family,
which I will enclose you a memorandum for. Mr. Thomas says he saw your
brother Chesebrough well in the street but they only exchanging hats so he
cannot tell how the family did. I suppose Mr. Green will write Mr. Thomas
but if he does not, pray be so good as to speak to him about his taking some
cattle of Mr. Thomas and let us know what he says. Pray my compliments as
due to Mrs. Dering. I hope you both are still of the mind to make us a visit
with the pleasing prospect of which I conclude at present with subscribing
myself your affectionate sister S Thomas Marshfield August ye 14 1756
Pray let James bring what things he can for when we shall have an
opportunity by water I know not for all our vessels are gone to the Eastward.
Pray do not fail of a part of the sugar for we are quite out. ST
38
Book: 1
Number: 51
Date: 8/26/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Martin Howard, Jr.
Place: Newport
Newport 26 August 1756
Dear Sir
I received your favor with the intelligence that my dear baby had drawn a
prize for which he is indebted to you, She if not yet able to prattle only her
thanks to you for the kind info and therefore you must be contented with
mine in her behalf. I enclose you the ticket and by the favor of you to receive
the five dollars with three of which being pleased to purchase a ticket in the
ensuing lottery and send me the remainder by any opportunity that shall
offer with the ticket you shall purchase.
Your good disposition suggests to you more compliments than any civility
from me have merit. I am no user of friendship, therefore shall be satisfied
with the principal with one of interest some part of which or all put it in your
power to pay off by the favor I am going to ask of you.
I observe in the last paper that a handsome Chaise is to be sold with some
other goods sometime next month in Boston. If that Chaise be not much
worn but of a modern fashion and strong and you think will sell cheaper
to his probable I may buy it. If you will please to inform myself of these
particulars and let me know your judgment I will give you directions should
the price be low to purchase it.
We have an answer from Albany that Oswego is taken. If this be true we
shall have much leeway to recover. I wish to heaven our swords turned into
plowshares and our spears into pruning hooks. Mrs. Howard and self salute
Mrs. Dering. I hope the choices effect of matrimony has ere this budded.
May it ripen and yield you both the choicest fruit. Tell Miss Hepzi her
patience may at last be rewarded by a good husband. Let her not despair.
Give her our respects. I continue to esteem me ye your sincere friend and
humble servant Martin Howard Junior
Book: 1
Number: 52
Date: 8/27/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Mifflin & Saunders
Place: Philadelphia
Philadelphia August 27, 1756
Respected friend Thomas Dering
Our J Mree your favor of the 16th instant, enclosing a lottery ticket which
came up a prize of 250 dollars, which we have received deducting the 15%
according to the scheme, leaves in our hands 79 pounds 13 shillings and 9
pence this currency. Shall agreeable to order ship it in good flour by first
vessel that will take it in. We are of affectionate friends Mifflin and Saunders
• An advertisement in the Boston Evening-Post on Monday, August 9, 1756: TO BE LET, A Large and convenient House
and Shop, fronting upon Cornhill and Queen’s Street, exceeding well situated for Business, with many Accommodations,
Enquire of Thomas Dering.
Book: 1
Number: 50
Date: 8/28/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Lane & Booth
Place: London
Capt. Jacobson London 28 August 1756
Mr. Thomas Dering
Sir
Enclosed you have Capt. Jacobson’s bill of lading for a trunk of goods
consigned you by him for our friend Job of John Lane of your place, which
you’ll please to receive and follow these [-] about debiting them for the
39
freight and charging as if we can serve you in the city we shall be glad and
remain with respect your most humble Lane and Booth
PS Enclosed you have also a letter for said Messrs. Lane, which we take the
freedom to recommend to your care.
Book: 1
Number: 53
Date: 9/8/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Sarah Thomas
Place: Marshfield
Marshfield September ye eighth 1756
Dear Brother
The great friendship and regard you once professed for me emboldens me to
write you as a friend, the great straits I am in at present for many necessaries,
which it is not in Mr. Thomas’s power to get at this time, and pay those
people which he ought and must most necessarily do most beg you had any
such thing as a piece of fabric left when you left out shop keeping about 20
or 22 shillings a yard that you would send it me for the child is quite naked
and I have not anything to make him shirts of except I was to make it of fine
Dutch Holland which I think is too good besides many other things
I want the fabric for and I must once more make you would not forget the
done lace for our boys have not shirts to cover their nakedness. Perhaps
you will wonder I cannot get something spun here for them but there is not
anybody that will work for us without the money and then it hands was in
about half as dealer again as if we sent to Boston for it some people think it is
a very easy matter for Mr. Thomas to sell the produce of his farm paid what
he does and have money to spare and never remembering he has constant
family expenses which we must have money going out for and for his farm
will not produce everything we want to spend in a family and besides he must
find money to pay of his people weekly that work on the farm and glad to get
them so for there is none to be hired hardly since this last [-] Bisbee will be
up next week I believe by whom I should be glad you could send these things
I have men and hands.
I think I delivered you in my last to send me some vinegar for my pickles for
our vinegar is so weak I am afraid that will be all spoiled and if I have not
time to write to Hepzi. Pray tell her she must look out for a maid for me for
Liza is going away to be married in October and Asher’s time will be up in
December and then I shall be quite destitute of servants. I think to complete
my letter of wants I must say I wish you could get me a good Negro woman
for in short I believe I shall have no steady help till I have one. I am very
sorry to give you so much trouble but if it want for hopes the heart would
break. I live in hopes of seeing the day when I shall not be such a trouble to
my friends but have it in my power to make them some return for what has
passed. I shall order Bisbee to call upon you and pray do not fail to let Mr.
Gooch note it for he has a barrel of flour for us and we have not had any
in the house a great while. By this time I believe you are quite tired so shall
only add Mr. Thomas and my best regards to Mrs. Dering and rest your
affectionate sister S Thomas
40
Book: 1
Number: 54
Date: 9/10/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Lane & Booth
Place: London
Messers Thomas and Henry Dering
London 10th September 1756
Gentlemen
This morning we received your favor of 20 July to our Thomas Lane. You
will long ere this reaches your lands been informed of our having engaged
in partnership together and this being our first opportunity of writing you
we send you at foot here of our respective firms desiring they may meet
equal credit with you in the course of our future correspondence. Our much
obliged to our old friends Mr. Jones Rowe for his kind recommendation. If
you are good sales to our house and since you have resolved to enter into
correspondence here for importing your own goods we shall accept the
commission you have sent us and ship you the goods you have wrote for by
the very first opportunity after they can be got ready. In showing the value of
them that you may be no losers in case of loss and hope in your execution of
your orders to give you an entire satisfaction. The remittances you design us
shall be accepting in ye time proposed.
We now make you a tender of our service on ye same terms which serve our
other New England friends with spring and fall goods. There is many articles
you have wrote for must be bought at a short and others at a longer credit so
upon average we are willing to give you six months credit for all the goods
you may write to us for and if not paid for them in that time from the date
of the bills of lading that charge you interest after the rate of 5% and up
and up until we are reimbursed our advance. If this proposal is agreeable
shall be expecting your agreement they are to when you place to favor us to
your apply to this. If the trade of your place should take a more far favorable
turn so as to enable you to send us remittance to pay for your goods before
the time of payment falls due, you shall have a discount allowed you in
proportion to the interest we charge you with. [-] Not having further to offer
at present we tender you our best services and remain with respect gentlemen
your most humble servants the sum of Our Thomas Lane, Lane and Booth
and thus sum of our Benjamin Booth, Lane and Booth.
Gentlemen, we are now at the 1 November confirm the preceding copy of
our last since, which have none of your [-] agreeable to our last we now
enclose you Capt. Buice’s bill of lading and invoice of sundry merchandise
shipped you buying him to our own of the 20 July amounting to £1250
insured there on at £10.10 percent [-] 3/6 we have made full insurance so
as to secure your interest in case of loss. Your orders are completed except
one [--] Garlett and 12 [-] which are not to be sold in town. We hope these
goods will come to a good market and give you satisfaction. Your insurance
are to return £2 [-] if the proceeds with Channel Convey LA of C with
North American convoy we shall be expecting your reply to our last of first
opportunity and hoping we shall continue a larger correspondence and
mutual benefit remain respectfully gentlemen ye most humble servants Lane
and Booth
PS We have in a few articles somewhat exceeded your orders on account of
purchasing complete bales which are generally better penny worth’s [-] the
advantage of the goods being fresh and clean.
41
Book: 1
Number: 56
Date: 10/25/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Joseph Green, Jr.
Place: Halifax
Halifax 25th of October 1756
My dear friend
Your agreeable favor of the 16th instant is received. I am very glad to hear
of your safe return to Boston with my good friend Mrs. Dering and Mrs.
Cheseborough. You have reason I must allow to blame me for not writing
until I inform you that the great hurry of my business was such that I had not
time to put up my bedding and pack my chest until now quarter of an hour
after the passengers were all on board and was then in so great a hurry that
I was obliged to leave many things undone which ought to have been done
but by this I could do better join in that most excellent form of the Church
of England however I am very much pleased with the charitable construction
you are pleased to put upon my conduct and I assure you it was the thing and
nothing but my great hurry could have found me to neglect a duty of that
sort.
But give me leave to remind you that the day before I sailed from Boston
I had a vessel sail for Surinam and the same day had another arrive from
Halifax and all her accounts to settle. Then the preparation I was to make
for my dear ship Elizabeth’s load for Jamaica and many other affairs I was
obliged to attend besides the preparations by was to make for my business at
Halifax etc. etc. etc. while I hope in some measure excuse me. I hope I shall
not be careful about many things but that I shall choose that good part which
shall not be taken away.
Oh my dear Mr. Dering I long to see you and my dear friend Mrs. Dering
members of the Church of England. I pray you would make all the excuses
and apologies for me to Mrs. Dering that tend to be said for a man that is
overwhelmed with business, for by George, I was up writing last night .I
made starry set up and write until 2 o’clock and was obliged to wake up
the sleeper Sleeper Sundry and at last the candles being burnt out went to
my bed and my brother Harry told me he wished there was a law with very
severe penalties for any person that wrote upon business after 9 o’clock.
But I remember the proverb of Solomon train up a child in the way he
should go and when he is old he will not despair from it. As to the spices salt
etc. to depend upon it I shall be very careful to procure them all. But as to a
watch I have made great inquiry but can’t find any. If I should light of one
that I think will please you I shall purchase it.
I am preparing with all expedition to return home and had rather go home
in the summer than at this season I have sundry times tried November
passages and found some of them very sad ones and I do as much expect to
be paid of bad weather as I expect to go home. However I have a very fine
stout vessel to go home in and I intend to man her well with good seamen
and then try if we can’t make her hold nose at Nor’wester and Busk it. She
is a skow that I have bought here of about about two tons burden and as
good a vessel as I would ever wish to sail in. I can truly say it would be more
agreeable tome to be settled with some agreeable young lady by a good
fireside than to do beating the seas at this season of the year. However it
can’t be helped. Business must be minded but I hope please God to live shall
42
not be bled with perplexity hurry and trouble when I am old. This is the
last winter voyage I intend to have and so I have thought this several years
past. Please dgive my best regard and esteem to Mrs. Dering. My humble
compliments to my unknown friend Miss Cheseborough. Your most sincere
friend Joseph Green Junior
Book: 1
Number: 55
Date: 10/29/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Jonathan Nelson
Place: Portsmouth
Mr. Thomas Dering
Portsmouth October 29, 1756
Dear Sir
I received yours by Mr. Osborn with Bundy, of what we fancy to be many
and have credit you for it and enclosed in the bills Parcells endorsed. You
say you shall continue to look on me as a debtor for the promises I made to
wait on you when I was in Boston depend on it to discharge it when I next
take tour your way. Will be the greatest pleasure to Serve. Your most humble
servant Jonathan Nelson Please give my best compliments to Mrs. Dering
Book: 1
Number: 57
Date: 11/1/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Lane & Booth
Place: London
Messer’s Thomas and Henry Dering and Buice
London ye 1 November 1756
Gentlemen
We confirm ye preceding copy of our last since which have none of your
favors agreeable to our last. We now enclose your Captain Buice’s bill of
lading and invoice of sundry merchandise shipped you by hire to your order
of ye 20 July amount £1092.3.1, which we have charged to your debit with
ye addition £131.8.6 for premium of £1250 insured thereon at £10.10 of
[---] 3/6. We have made full insurance so as to secure your interest in case
of loss. Your orders are completed except 1 per Ellboide Garlett 12 per [-]
which are not to be had in town. We hope these goods will come to a good
market and give you satisfaction. Your insurers are to return £2.6 if the
vessel proceeds with Channel Convoy and £4.6 if with North American
convoy. We shall be expecting your reply to our last first opportunity and
hoping we shall continue a larger correspondence to mutual benefit. Remain
respectfully, gentleman your most humble servants
PS We have in a few articles somewhat exceeded your orders on account of
purchasing completed bales, which are generally better penny worth besides
the advantage of the goods being fresh and clean.
Book: 1
Number: 36
Date: 11/10/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Joseph Green, Jr.
Place: Boston
Dear Friend
Your agreeable favor of the 8th instant is now before me and the very
first thing I shall take notice of, excuse me, is the breach of the fourth
commandment. I shall put it up this time concluding you will do so no more.
I heartily forgive you and hope you will be forgiven, Amen.
Not any of your friends can wish you more happy than your humble servant
and I have only this charge to give you and this I do most solemnly never to
see my face again as long as you live unless you wear the face of a married
man. And as a friend I would advise you as you love your life not to come
home a bachelor as you would avoid the end that St. Stephen come to, for
you may depend upon it that while be your portion unless the ground should
be covered with snow. I remember you and this day have ventured to drink
43
Mr. Dering and this lady hope the affair is passed recalling and God grant
you both all the happiness that ever a couple enjoyed in this life. You have
my good wishes of, which I hope and believe you want no further proof. My
desires are very great to see a lady with whom I hope shortly to contract a
friendship, which naught but death shall ever break and till then not any
friend can wish you more happy. I hope you will not be unmindful of me and
as you have often told me you were very desirous of seeing me among the
class of which I hope you are lately so happy as to be received into have only
this favor to ask of you that you would look out for the able to recommend a
friend to me as I assure you I shall now think a more of it than ever. I hope I
shall share in such a manner as will be agreeable to you. That is provided you
do not choose for me. Which I now give you a full power to do. I shall think
myself bound to fulfill the promise you make for me.
I have not anything new to communicate to you. Only that I have without
any difficulty settled the account of my ship The Elizabeth and have to
receive tomorrow of Messers Apthorp and Hancock near £400 sterling for
hire -- and the ship, which cost me £75 sterling still as good as any ship in
this harbor; that is, I mean, as strong as any, for I have not much to say as to
her beauty.
Capt. Jones is arrived from Halifax and had an extreme bad passage; 14
days and seven days before he arrived he saw John Metcalf in a very hard
gale of wind. Metcalf was in distress and made signals but the storm was [--]
that he could not even speak with him and I am [--] much afraid for the poor
fellow. He also [--] us an account of the French neutrals rising [--] Milton in
us know that the government [--] charter’s the [-] away and we suppose killed
[-] every [-] the snow lay in someplace which [---] you approaches. And the
neutral French [--] have also taken Capt. McNeil in a large [---] belonging to
General Winniet, which was [--] Annapolis Royal but put into the St. Johns
River for [--] all harbor they came upon him before daylight and took them
asleep. All friends well. I remain your most affectionate friend humble servant
Joseph Green Junior
Mr. Borland had £1000 sterling in provisions on board the schooner for the
garrison of Annapolis Royal without insurance.
Book: 1
Number: 60
Date: 11/10/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Joseph Green, Jr.
Place: Halfax
Halifax 10th November 1756
Dear Sir
I have only trying to say how do you do am very much hurried but hope to
be ready to sail from this by the 15th or 18th instant. Hope shall have a good
passage. Have never yet had one in the month of November. Hope I shall
not take Louis Gowig in my way. I shall not easily give up as it would give me
great uneasiness to be taken from my business at this time. I am determined
if I give up my vessel days shall have her a very dear bargain. I refer you
to Mrs. Monk for basket salt. Remember me to Mrs. Dering. Your humble
servant Joseph Green Junior
• Nephew of Elizabeth Packer. Grandson of Elisha Packer
44
Book: 1
Number: 63
Date: 11/15/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Charles Stewart
Place: New London
New London November 15, 1756
Mr. Dering
Received your favor and in answer the above [-] letter my affair I sold the
Negro for 75 pounds New York money to Col. Saltonstall who will pay the
money in two months. As for the other shall [-] also soon my wife joins within
compliments as due to your good lady and am your most humble servant
Charles Stewart
• In 1756 and 1757 Thomas was working to settle their estate, which included a lawsuit he had instituted against his
mother’s family over the value of the paper money used by his brother-in-law to pay a debt to Henry Dering’s estate.
Book: 1
Number: 61
Date: 11/16/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Thomas Packer, Jr.
Place: Greenland,
New Hampshire
Greenland November 16, 1756
Sir
I received the Bible and ring, which our good Aunt left me by Mr. Jackson
and am obliged to you for your care in sending it to me.
Book: 1
Number: 59
Date: 11/17/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Theodore Atkinson
Place: Portsmouth
I received yours and had not the least mistrust of any but unnatural mistake
we are none of us perfect. My been particular from Lim way only to remind
you least putting your cash with others you might not be [-] of the mistake.
My grateful compliments to good Mrs. Dering who enjoys all my best
wishes return my thanks to Mrs. Chesebrough and wish her [--] of here and
something more to her satisfaction ....
It’s so long since I wrote a letter I shall ever remember the kindness of
our good Aunt to me and by her last request to you concerning me, shall
look upon myself bound to honor her memory by all marks of gratitude
in my power to her children and use my best endeavors to make the good
improvement of the Bible she so earnestly wished I would. Though it is a
long time since I was in Boston or since we had intercourse together, yet I
am far from being thoughtless of you. My father sometimes talks of sending
me your way and as often attend his mind and when I see you expect in this
place, which I sincerely wish from the bottom of heart I cannot tell. I hear
you are married. I hope you have experienced err this, if it is for the best,
and heartily wish you many happy days and years with your spouse to whom
I send my compliments and wish she may find you as I do not doubt you are
one of the best of husbands in many years Thomas Packer
Book: 1
Number: 58
Date: 11/19/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Theodore Atkinson
Place: Lynn
Cousin Theodore Atkinson’s letter is impossible to transcribe.
45
Book: 1
Number: 62
Date: 12/11/1756
To: Thomas Dering
From: Lane & Booth
Place: London
Messrs. Thomas and Henry Dering
London 11 December1756
Gentlemen
We are favored with yours of the 15th and 24 September to R Thomas Lane.
In answer we have given you credit for the bills you remitted of £100 on
Alderman Baker and when that you intend us for £100 from Ferrell comes to
hand you shall be duly [-].
Capt. Buice said the 3 pres. from Portsmouth with the West Indies convoy
and in the Winds having been favorable ever since he must now be well on
his way to your place.
We sorry the Douglas I sent were not the sort you intended to write for we
shall send you 10/[-] yard wide with the small addition you have made to
your former order of Capt. Spender who will [-] on all this month. There
are no Lebanese or Lemoase handkerchiefs at present to be had with whole
sum.
We shall write you again of Capt. Spender and not having further to offer at
present we remain with respect, gentlemen, your most humble servants Lane
and Booth
PS Your enclosed for Capt. Alex Malcolm was delivered to Alderman Baker
Book: 1
Number: 65
Date: 9/2/1757
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Parker
Place: Portsmouth
Portsmouth September 2, 1757
Sir
Yours by Mr. Nelson with the papers therewith sent came safe to hand. But
I am sorry that I can’t serve you in the affairs you write of, being retained by
Mr. Packer in all cases and can’t engage in any case against him. I thought it
necessary to inform you as soon as possible that I might deliver your papers
and the money I received err two dollars agreeable to your orders. As I
believe Mr. Livermore is engaged for him as he told me I would inform you
who they are that attend our court as lawyers. Mr. Nash Emery of Kellery
Isadore of the same name at Exeter and Daniel Farnham of Newbury and
Mr. Peasley Sargent of Haverhill either of which are capable to manage this
affair as well as I could.
I should have been very glad to have served you if I could have been done
consistent with my duty. Shall readily obey your orders in delivering money
and papers as soon as I shall receive them. Interim I remain your most
humble servant William Parker
Pray could not this affair be settled by reference
Our next Infer[-] court is the first week in December the Supreme follows in
February
Book: 1
Number: 64
Date: 9/10/1757
To: Thomas Dering
46
Portsmouth September 10, 1757
Sir
I have your favor of the 5th instant before me upon the receipt of which I
conferred with Mr. Packer on the point of referring the case as mentioned
in yours and also showed him your letter but he refused and says that it must
From: William Parker
Place: Portsmouth
be settled in the common course of the law. Our court is now sitting and I
am very busy and have not yet had time to wait on Col. Atkinson with your
papers but will do it tomorrow. The money you sent I will deliver with the
papers. I am your most obedient servant William Parker
Book: 1
Number: 66
Date: 9/27/1757
To: Thomas Dering
From: Daniel Farnham
Place: Newberry
Newberry September 27, 1757
Sir
I have read yours containing a particular state of the controversy between
you and Mr. Packer relative to a bond he gave to your father. And have
only today. If you remit me the necessary papers I will do the best in my
power to see that you have justice done and conduct the cause that may be
commenced in such a manner. Justice is not done you in New Hampshire you
may have it in England. And am your most humble servant Daniel Farnham
Book 1
Number: 67
Date: 11/21/1757
To: Thomas Dering
From: Daniel Farnham
Place: Newberry
Sir
I have been at Portsmouth and have caused our writ to be served on Mr.
Parker in your favor on the bond to the next court, which is of first Thursday
next following the first Tuesday in December next and had some discourse
with him on the affair and find he intends to get a continuance if probable
to the next term and for that, two reasons. The first because on the mortgage
there are some terms endorsed toward the same debt the bond was given
for and no enforcement thereof on the bond and he’ll insist to have the
mortgage at court that and may be seen what is endorsed there on. The next,
because he sold a tract of land at Londonderry, which was his father’s and
of which he owns two thirds. That your father received the whole produce
of the sale and has given him no credit for his two thirds. Now I think it
will not be amiss to send you ye original mortgage that it may appear what
is paid thereon. And as to the other objection let me hear from you about
it. I suppose he’ll pray for time to get proof of it and that money received
was forward ye debt due on ye bond. I thought it proper to advise you of
his intention so far as I could learn whether he has any other reasons for
a continuance I know not. I am with great regard sincerely yours Daniel
Farnham
November 21, 1757
• Hepzi Small, who lived with the Derings in Boston, had gone to Marshfield to visit her cousin Sarah Thomas. who had
married Nat Ray Thomas in 1754. He was a Harvard graduate and a large land owner in Marshfield.
Book: 1
Number: 69
Date: 12/9/1757
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Small
Place: Marshfield
December 9
Dear Coz
This is the first opportunity I have had to acquaint you of my journey, which
would have been very pleasant if there had been any good company. It was
very warm and pleasant riding the roads very good; if you remember I was
in the chairs just at that as the clock struck eight and we were at [-] before
10 when I thought proper to shift horses and put gold [-] in which he did
not like but I told him he case the mayor one stage and if he behaved well he
should have the praise and if not I would punish him, so we set out on that
day but the horse, like what I said, seems on one side poking his side and [-]
whipping on the other till the poor girl was tired and won’t cry out oh bless
me mishaps I am afraid you will be tired before you get to Marshfield.
47
I was very angry, as you may well think, with the old horse but could not
help smiling to see Jeans and Keaty exercising themselves on the horse at
last I grew impatient and thought I must do something myself so I fell to
chirping and the music of my voice charmed the old horse that he set a going
and I kept to chirping till my tongue and lips were almost worn out. Keaty,
observing this behavior cries out oh bless me what is the matter with the
horse I believe he is just come to life in this way brought us Cushens about 12
[-]. Where we shifted and put the old mare to the chairs who carried us safe
to Mrs. Thomas’s by 5 o’clock, but they did not expect me till Monday.
Tuesday Parson Green and wife and father dined with us and Wednesdays
Sally and I went to Duxbury to Convention. The preacher was Parson
Barnes of Citygate. He had a charming set of teeth, a good delivery, and
speak like Mr. Cooper. There was a number of ministers there but I can’t
write you all now. Parson Roan”s son came home and slept with us and has
given us an invitation to Kingstown where we are going next week if we live.
We have been expecting the General every day this week. He sent his family
word that he shall be down on Wednesday and they have been preparing for
him. I hope when he comes I shall hear from you and do send all the news
for we can’t hear any here. I long to kiss the babe who I hope is well; do
write me about him and kiss him for me. Nat says he will come and see him
along with me. Pray remember me to all inquiring friends Mr. Goldswaithe
and lady, Mrs. Thornecroft and Mrs. Dering and you will oblige yours at
command Hepzi Small
Pray tell Major Noble that Mr. Thomas will take his horse for 18 pounds for
the season and that is what he has for the other horses that he has got.
Book: 1
Number: 68
Date: 12/14/1757
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Small
Place: Marshfield
Dear Coz
December ye 14th
I have wrote you by this sloop an account of my journey but by Jeany I find
you have not received it but hope you will before this reaches you so shall not
say anything about it now. As to Sheasff’s book it is safe in my drawer pray
tell him so am when I come up he shall have it. I did intend to give it to him
before I left home. I came in such a hurry that I forgot it. I am very sorry to
hear of your indisposition but hope your dieting will be of service to you for
your recovery. I am very glad to hear that Harry is got better. I have been
very uneasy about him because I know he takes no care of himself. I long to
romp with babe and kiss him but I am afraid he will forget me before I shall
see him again but don’t let him if you can help it. I suppose John has told
you what a merry meeting we had. I was extreme glad to see him and wish
he had stayed longer. My complements to Mr. Goldthwaite and all friends of
yours Hepzi Small
You say nothing about Mr. Fox of the Siegel. I hope you will get it though I
hear they say he shall [-] for it was the tickets I left with you blanks that you
say nothing of.
• Mary and Thomas Dering’s first child, a son Henry, was born in April 1757 and died in January 1758. There are
some vague condolences in a few letters. Another son, Sylvester Dering was born in November 1758, and, although he was
sometimes a sickly child, he survived his childhood. Hepzi Small was profoundly attached to her cousin’s baby boy. There is
every reason to believe that Hepzi and Thomas’s brother Henry were living with Thomas and Mary in their new house.
48
Book: 1
Number: 70
Date: 1/20/1758
To: Thomas Dering
From: Edward Hitchens
Place: Salem
Book: 1
Number: 71
Date: 9/9/1758
To: Thomas Dering
From: Daniel Farnham
Place: Newberry
Salem January 20, 1758
I received yours of the 16th[17th] instant by Major Hicks with 271 pounds
for shillings of the old tenor accepting a very [-] old mater which is not worth
mentioning being the money which was due to me from Capt. Richard
Williamson’s estate and for your care in the affair I return you many thank
for three of the largest pieces of gold I am something doubtful of for fear
they are not so good gold as the other being of a much lighter color. I am
with great respect your obliged kinsmen your humble servant Edward
Hitchens
[a list of money totaling £271.4.1]
Sir
I had no opportunity till now to inform you how your case with Mr. Packer
[-] I attended at the adjournment of court at Portsmouth when we had a
hearing. And the judgment of that court is that you recover of him 345.6.9
new tenor of ye Providence or their lawful money which is 1381.7.0 of their
old tenor, a very inconsiderable sum compared with what is justly due. The
judge, in short, proceeded in this manner: first they deducted out of the
bond I think about 200 pounds, which Mr. Packer said your father received
for some lands sold at Londonderry. Upon examining that matter I found
the deed Mr. Packer gave of the land sold the produce of which her father
received was dated sometime and I think months before Mr. Packer’s bond
so justly concluded and argued that the money was accounted for and
allowed him on the settlement before he gave of bond to me. He seemed
to me very unaccountable that on a settlement of accounts between your
father and Mr. Packer he should give a bond for so considerable a sum and
the money therefore for the land sold before not settled nor accounted for.
But upon Mr. Packer’s solemn protestation. That it never was they deeded
it out -- They made no allowance for the depreciation of their bills and the
reason they figured for it was the tender he made you at Col. Atkinson’s,
which they adjudged to be a good lender considered in chancery. And in
as much as you might have had the money than [-] and as much as you
demanded as they say that was their judgment as depreciation ought to be
allowed so finally made up judgment for that sum afore mentioned. I have
spoken for the copy of the that case and the writ of the review from the
clerk of the Superior Court. To review the ause cause to your [-] court there
which [-] in November next. Where I hope you’ll obtain a judgment for the
justice of your debt but see no great probability of the judge allowing their
opinions. The judges for Col. Wallingford Col. Weaver John Newmark Esq.
of Portsmouth. I am sure you’re very humble servant Daniel Farnham
• This letter is undated and was placed in the wrong place. Hepzi was lamenting a dead child, which must have been Henry
who was born in 1757 and died in 1758. Hepzi was not yet married. Was she being courted by a Mr. Edwards?
Book: 3
Number: 230
Date: 11/5/1758
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Small
Place: Boston
Dear friend I received yours and was very glad to hear from you. Your letter
filled me with grief and tears when you mentioned my dear child, which has
almost broke my heart, his leaving of me for I sat down in tears and rose with
the same till I began to think it was wicked in me for I feared I should make
myself sick. I held on in this way till the Monday after you left me and then a
new era opened as soon as breakfast was over. Somebody knocks at the door
49
and when I went who should it be but Doc Chauncey. How do you do Miss
Hepzi. What do you think has brought me here this morning. Can you guess
in seven times. No sir, set a high nor twice seven but something good I hope
Dr. will come sit down and I will tell you. Mr. Brigham wants a good wife
and your character suits him. My wife and I think there is not the woman in
the world that will suit him like you. But not to enlarge, the doctor labored
the point with me for an hour. I said I was very much obliged to him and
glad I had such a friend, and I will realize Mr. Brigham was too but I could
not think of going in the country away from all my friends but it had us [----]
care between here and Marshfield.
I would have gone to oblige the good Dr. a great deal more was said to his
nieces and the like. Another thing I thought was that if I went to this by
place, I should never see my dear boy no more a shocking thought indeed
well said [-] I had rather keep you here. I am loathe to part with you
pray what is this talk of Mr. Edwards as he been to see you? Know it was
only outdoors talk well said he and I had [--] notwithstanding I have such
opinion of Mr. Brigham and know him to be so good a husband. I have no
acquaintance with Mr. Edwards but I will go and let him that the King’s
business requires haste and if he won’t come directly bring them will cut him
out just such a friend at this is my dear [-].
He has been twice to see me in three or four days but I can’t write you one
half of the kind things that he said to me. I hope one time or other eyes shall
see you in this [-] and then perhaps I may surprise you with some things that
you never thought of but to leave that. The kindness of my friends is so great
as you can’t imagine. Mrs. Wentworth has ordered all her servants to be at
my command. Came in and said anything and everything in her house was
at my service and begged that I would want nothing that [-] she had.
Mrs. Gooch [Thomas’s sister Mary] has made me several presents for
housekeeping. She sent me a large quantity of pickles and many other things
of that kind. I am asked to dine almost every day at one or other of my
friends. Mrs. Gooch came twice in one day to ask me to come up and spend
the evening with some company that they thought would be agreeable to me.
I at present live as easy and that is happy as I could wish. I wish you were my
near neighbors. That I could see you every day. Providence is very kind to
me. May I never be left to distrust it. God is good and kind to the evil and
unthankful and I partake of his bounties every day. Oh that my heart may
be filled with gratitude and thankfulness to the father of Marines. [-] desire
from my heart to thank God for his fatherly corrections [-] I [-] thought it
hard to bear but I would not be without the world. Pray that every trial that
I have met with [-] be sanctified to me. but I must return to my dear child
so foolish [---] and unwise as to keep his dear nightshirt. In my chamber
kiss and weep over it every morning. His jacket hangs in the entry where as I
pass from parlor to kitchen, I stop and kiss and drop a fond tear upon it. I am
afraid I am wicked in this but I want grace. I can’t get the better of it. Your
friends here and all [--] your neighbors house days it much to have an is your
friend but a little news. Mr. Greenleaf, Mr. Winslow’s child and [-] died a
week after you left us. Capt. Phillips was married the Thursday morning after
50
you left us and came to lecture and nobody knew that he was bridegroom.
But I must subscribe myself your friend and cousin at command as ever
Hepzi Small
• An advertisement in the Boston Post-Boy on Monday, November 6, 1758: IMPORTED in the last Ships from
LONDON AND TO BE SOLD BY Thomas and Henry Dering, At their Store near Golden Ball, very CHEAP, Scarlet,
blue and cloth-colour’d Broad-Cloth of all Qualities, scarlet, blue, green, black, and cloth-colour’d German Serges, Kerseys,
Plains, Bear-Skins, Beaver-Coatings, Fearnaughts, Swanskins, Bayses, Buntings, plain and figur’d Tammys, Shalloons,
Men’s and Women’s worsted Hose, Men’s worsted Caps, Women’s Russel and Camaanco Shoes, Coat and Waistcoat
Buttons, Scarff Twist, Silk and Hair and Mohair, Ruffia and RavensDuck, Ticklingburgs, Ozenbrigs, Nuns and Irish
Linnens, TablingHuckabucks, waxed Threads, Tapes, Buckrams, Writing Paper, Castor and Beaveret Hatts, Silk Stay
Laces, best rich yellow Sattin, India China-Ware, Cambrick, and Shier Muslins, Men’s Dreiden, work’d and overcast
Ruffles, Rppee Snuff, Cod-Lines, Cod and Mackrel Hooks, TableKnives and Forks, Buck-handle spring Knives and Cuttoes,
Sail and Bolt-rope Needles, Pals, Chest and Pad-Locks, Dire-Steels, Hammers, Marking Irons, Bellowses, Gimlets, Tap
Borers, Caulking and Making Irons, 4d, 6d, 8d, 10d, and 20d and Scupper Nails and Tacks, Brass Kettles &c. also
Muscovada Sugar by the Hogshead or Barrel.
Book: 1
Number: 72
Date: 1/8/1759
To: Thomas Dering
From: Samuel Gardiner
Place: Salem
Book: 1
Number: 74
Date: 1/9/1759
To: Thomas Dering
From: Margaret
Chesebrough
Place: Newport
Salem January 8, 1759
Dear Sir
I have agreeable to your desire sent you by George Beebe [floater] one bark of
Sherry marked on ye head with chalk to T Dering which I wish safe to your
hands and hope it will be agreeable to you. My compliments to Mrs. Dering
from your affectionate friend and kinsman Samuel Gardiner
Newport January 9, 1759
Dear Brother
I received yours by Mr. Pease since which I have not had one opportunity to
answer it and now my pen is so bad and it is by candlelight that I fear it will
be a dreadful letter but when I consider that I am writing to a good friend I
make myself go it easy and scrabble a long gust what comes upper most: I
return you many thanks for your case and trouble in procuring me a ticket. I
conclude it is a blank by my not hearing from you before this. I due to Tom
had I drawn a prize I should have heard from you by the post: but let it be
how it will. I shall be easy. I am extremely glad to hear that you are much
better and that your health is so much restored to you. I pray that it may be
continued and that begone [mars] is may be continued. I don’t hear any
thing of my dear sister having the rhumatism this winter which I think is
a great favour: I long to hear from you all. And to know what progress the
dear little son makes in walking and talking. I expect to hear that he is [-]
pretty things be lead: carrying the slippers I have sent to the Forst’s house
and desired his wife who I have some small acquaintance with to look for
that same letter directed to Mr. Dering at Newport but cannot hear anything
of it: I have 1000 things to say to you but it will not do to commit them to
pen and paper, so conclude with wishing you and yours the best of heaven’s
blessings your affectionate sister Margaret Cheseborough
My complements to all friends
51
Book: 1
Number: 75
Date: 1/13/1759
To: Thomas Dering
From: J Wentworth
Place: Portsmouth
Portsmouth January 13, 1759
Dear Sir
You’re very agreeable favor of Mr. Apthorpe with great pleasure received
as it informed me of your safe arrival home and that your journey was not
unpleasant. I am obliged for your inquiring about the beam for Mrs., since
which I have met with one of that size at a cheaper rate, so shall not want
one at present. I shall be very glad of the chain and will remit you the cash
and charges as soon as I receive your account of it; and when ever you come
to Portsmouth you shall use it preferably to anyone else. Which you must
note is what I intend to allow to a few choice friends only as shall remove it
to my curious chamber that I carried you into if they make too free with it
before.
Your good company while with us was more than retaliation for any little
civilities you could have received here had not your many kindnesses to all
our family when with you send them a much more your do, so that instead
of having your acknowledgments to receive, I find have them more justly
to make for myself and [-] always must be the case, when are favored with
you here or obliged by you at Boston; thus Sir, [-] you still by your goodness
increase my debt even when I am endeavoring to return some part, so
by the same goodness you’ll be kind enough to know that I truly wish an
opportunity of showing the sincerity of my gratitude in any agreeable service
you may think proper to command me in. My father and mother and brother
join in our compliments of respect to you and to good Mrs. Dering and to
all your good family. If you should meet with any watch chains like yours or
any other kind that you preferred to yours, shall be glad you’d send me; as
observed by your letter some were expected. My brother Bromley, ye adopted
cousin, returns his duty to his uncle though declines troubling him for his
aunt’s chain as he is glad to hear she now has occasion for it. I have wrote
your brother how I was humbled about the iron chests which he will read
you the circumstances of it will I hope induce you to excuse the involuntary
imposition of your sincere and obliged friend Wentworth
PS remember my compliments to Miss Hepzi
This is a dull place for candy; have not one enough lately to pay post image
of a letter to inform her of my proceeds that way.
[Used as scrap paper in doing calculations on the back]
• Theodore Atkinson would sometimes write very articlulate letters and sometimes his scrawl was impossible to understand and
sometimes impossible to read. This is an example of impossible in both understanding and reading.
Book: 1
Number: 76
Date: 2/1/1759
To: Thomas Dering
From: Theodore Atkinson
Place: Portland
52
Sunday night 8 o’clock
Dear Sir
I this moment received your favor of the 3rd ultimo am so very sorry for
Mrs. Dering I know something of that attack your thinking of o’clock limp
and send my our obedience the much I shall be able by next opportunity to
send to hear copy of your care ...
Book: 1
Number: 78
Date: 2/13/1759
To: Thomas Dering
From: Sarah Thomas
Place: Marshfield
Book: 1
Number: 77
Date: 2/22/1759
To: Thomas Dering
From: Theodore
Atkinson, Jr.
Place: Portland
Book: 1
Number: 73
Date: 3/4/1759
To: Thomas Dering
From: George Jeffrey
Place: Boston
Book: 1
Number: 79
Date: 3/14/1759
To: Thomas Dering
From: Samuel Gardiner
Place: Salem
Marshfield February 13, 1759
Dear Brother
I received your letter and books by Mr. Thomas and am much obliged
to you for them. He had a very cold ride home and added to the soreness
of his eyes, which prevents his writing by this opportunity so desires to be
kindly remembered by you and yours. I think the frequent shocks of the
earthquakes we have is a loud call to us all to have our lamps trimmed and
burning, ready for the coming of our Lord. The Scripture seems to be
fulfilling a pace. I pray God we may be prepared for the event of these things.
As for that part of your letter relating to Nelly, have wrote Mrs. Dering at
large in my last letter to her. Hope both she and you are satisfied that I have
not behaved amiss in the affair for she told me absolutely she should not go
to your house. If she went up because she could not go through your work
and indeed if she did not more then she does here she would not suit you
except you had more servants or Mrs. Dering’s inclination was not to live in
such nice order as you generally do. I have a bad bleeding sore on my finger,
which prevents my enlarging so must conclude with my kind love to Mrs.
Dering, your affectionate sister Sarah Thomas
Portland February 22, 1759
Kinsman
This morning in putting my desk in order I found the enclosed letter which
you’ll see was designed by you. In the same drawer I found some money
perhaps hide up in a letter directed to the same person. No doubt the
letter will inform the person whose property to this same their accidentally
proposed of. Your paper is now before the governor who has over [-] I had
them in rendered quite incapable of doing the least business not able to
write his name being in a violent fit of [-] out but is now [-] safe and will I
hope soon to business again. Yours will be few first. My compliments to Mrs.
Dering and the rest of our friends in this [--] of joy [-] I am your kinsman
and very humble servant
Agreeable to your request by Mr. Winthrop I have copied your case and sent
it to Col. Atkinson to have ye certificate annexed as he told me he would send
it to you by his son, who I understand sets out this week -- ye cash £11.2.0
new tender. We have no remarkable news so conclude with my compliments
to Mrs. Dering. From your most humble servant George Jeffrey
to Mr. Thomas Dering March 4 Boston
Salem March 14, 1759
Dear Sir
I have some Lisbon wines by me which you desired me to let you know
when I received them as you wanted to purchase. Please to forward me
your directions about it and I will with pleasure comply with them. My
compliments to Mrs. Dering and all friends with you. Pleased to send me
by first opportunity a receipt that you had or would amount with and
commissioner of Suffolk for the Province [-] on one bark of Sherry delivered
you January 8, 1759. I must settle soon with ye commissioner for [-] and shall
be obliged to amount with him for the excise, on said bark of wine unless
I have your receipt. If you have not you must take a permit otherwise your
receipt will not be good. From your affectionate friend and kinsman Samuel
Gardiner
53
Abigail Chesebrough Grant, painted by Joseph Blackburn in Newport in 1754. [Art Institute of Chicago]
54
Alexander Grant, painted by Cosmos Alexander in Newport in 1770. [Art Institute of Chicago ]
55
Letter # 67, on November 21, 1757, from Daniel Farnham in Portsmouth, NH to Thomas Dering in Boston,
concerning the legal case against the Packer family over Henry Dering’s estate.
56
Book: 1
Number: 80
Date: 6/25/1759
To: Thomas Dering
From: Sarah Thomas
Place: Marshfield
Marshfield June 25, 1759
Dear Brother
Though I was glad to hear you got well home and found your little one well I
am very sorry to hear of your own indisposition. I wish you could have been
persuaded, as you have two doctors, to have let Stockbridge be one of them.
I speak not from any knowledge of my own though I must say he has done
me a great deal of going through the blessing of Providence but I should
be glad you might have had his advice from the great cures I have heard he
had made in your particular disorder, even after the doctors of the town had
used their best endeavors, not that I would have you think because I have
been obliged to change my doctor, that I have altered my good opinion of
them gentlemen in town very far from it, for I have still the highest esteem
and value for Dr. Perkins which is all I know much about, but for what I
have heard believe the others to be fine men and am rejoiced that you have
come to a conclusion to do something for yourself at last. I pray God to be
the means used for your recovery and as riding may be judge necessary with
medicine. Shall always be glad to see you here when ever it may be agreeable
to you and be assured the oftener the more pleasure you will give your
affectionate sister Sarah Thomas
Am much obliged to you for the hooks. I have some thoughts if you do not
think it will look amiss of putting them into the beam to which the bed up
in the parlor instead of lifting a stick to hold it up your advice upon it if you
please.
Book: 1
Number: 81
Date: 7/23/1759
To: Charlton Palmer, Esq.,
Philpot Lane, London
From: Theo Hutchinson
Place: Boston
Boston
23rd of July 1759
Sir, My good friend Mr. Thomas Dering being engaged in a lawsuit in the
Province of New Hampshire and apprehending himself aggrieved by the
judgment there, has appealed to the king and council. I think he has a very
plain case of it, the question being whether he shall receive the real value of
a sum lent by his father many years ago or whether he shall receive perhaps
a fifth or a tenth only of the real value according as the bills of credit of that
government happen more or less to depreciate. I have advised him to you as
solicitor and I ask it of you as a favor that you would do him every service in
your power, I am your humble servant Theo Hutchinson
To Charlton Palmer Esquire
Philpot Ln., London
Boston October 27, 1759
The foregoing is copy of which I wrote you ye 27th July last since which have
not been favored any from you hope before this the affair is commenced that
it will not be long before it will be finished. A line from you upon the affair
will oblige your very humble servant, TD
To Charlton Palmer, Esq.
Sir, you will receive this with a letter from the Hon. Tho Hutchinson, Esq.
who is so kind to me as to recommend you to solicit an appeal (of mine)
from the Superior Court of New Hampshire to his Majesty in Council.
57
Mr. John Gardner is my attorney who will wait on you with a copy of the
case and other papers from ye good opinion. Mr. Hutchinson he given me
of you doubt not your goodness in prosecuting this affair for me with care
and expedition many persons here decline prosecuting their just demands
at home from ye length of time or negligence with persons they employ to
recover their interests, this I trust will not be my misfortune as I think the
case is very plain (as you will see it stated by Benjamin Prat Esq. who is
esteemed and one of most able attorneys at law with us) and admits of little
or no dispute, I think it may be summed up in this whether I shall receive
what I sent upwards of 20 years ago and look ye borrower’s obligation to pay
me in the light specie or whether he shall pay me in paper bills of another
government which they say among themselves in lieu of money the necessary
experience on this occasion. Mr. Gardner will supply I shall be obliged to
you for a line upon ye affair as soon as you can which will oblige your very
humble servant Thomas Dering
Boston July 27, 1759
To Carlton Palmer Esquire Philpot Ln., London
Book: 1
Number: 82
Date: 11/7/1759
To: Thomas Dering
From: Theodore
Atkinson, Jr.
Place: Portsmouth
Portsmouth November 7, 1759
Dear Sir,
I have shipped on board the schooner Charming Molly John Gowell for
Boston thirty [--] of extraordinary good winter fish. Hope it will suit. My
complements to Mrs. Dering and all friends and accept the same from dear
Sir your kinsman Theo Atkinson Junior
[PS - Incomprehensible]
58
Book: 1
Number: 83
Date: 11/29/1759
To: Thomas Dering
From: Ebenezer Bachus
Place: Norwich
Norwich 29th November 1759
Mr. Dering I’ve received your favor for Mr. Jackson with the envelop for
Mrs. Barnaby which I sent to her have [-] Mr. Benjamin Clark in Boston
to settle with you in regard the bills given me to exchange who will do it in
soon as he receives some cash of mine in which expect next week from your
humble servant Ebenezer Bachus
Book: 1
Number: 84
Date: 12/6/1759
To: Thomas Dering
From: John Gardiner
Place: London
London December 6, 1759
Sir, I wrote about six weeks ago by Bradford and before that time by ye
packet acknowledging ye receipt of your letter, Bill and state of your case as
the same time acquainting you [th--geo-] your appeal, we have since received
an order to apply after Christmas for a summons which will be stuck up as
ye Royal exchange ordering ye appellee to appear himself or by attorney in
30 days to defend or else that we shall be heard a parte. I have inquired but
cannot find he has any agent so that I am in hopes it will be given in your
favor without any dispute. Mr. Palmer sent you a copy of ye petition which
he would have you show to Mr. Pratt and if any alteration is necessary would
be glad you would immediately by ye first conveyance led him know and
he will amend. We have engaged Mr. Pratt ye Atty. Gen. and Mr. Forester
who has ye ear of ye president my Lord Grenville. I am very obliged a very
humble servant John Gardiner
Book: 1
Number: 85
Date: 12/24/1759
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Adams
Place: New London
New London December 24, 1759
Dear Sir
I have so long neglected writing and this was making my acknowledgements
for the most kind entertainment I received from you and your worthy family
that now I am almost ashamed to put pen to paper. I can’t pretend in excuse
the want of opportunity is as perhaps the frequency of them, especially on
my first retirement from Boston rather made me more careful however more
than a month or six weeks passed there has been scare any opportunity of
writing except by the post. I confide [-] in your [-] and generosity that you
will pass over my fault (for such I freely confess it) at least so far as to impute
to anything but indifference and in gratitude which if I know myself, I must
dismiss the cold I contracted a few days before I left Boston has been my
companion ever since though with some little respite and interruption at
times, yet through the goodness of God I can’t say that I have been in any
great danger weakened or distressed thereby.
I shall rejoice to hear that God has restored and confirmed your health, and
that Mrs. Dering is safe from those pains she so frequently complained of
while I was with you and which you gave me not a little concern. I hope your
lovely son is still blooming and flourishing and pray God he may be spared
and prove a blessing in his day and generation.
I’d beg [-] line or two from you on the return of my nephew, the bearer of
this as it will be already a great satisfaction to hear from you and of your
welfare and prosperity. I shall not soon forget Boston, or the benevolent and
hospitable treatment I received there. I can’t pretend to greet by harmony my
agreeable acquaintance in Boston but pray that you would present suitable
regards to all that may be so kind as to think of me and inquire after me.
Please to give my compliments to Mrs. Dering your worthy brother and dear
Miss Hepzi. Tell Miss Hepzi that when she [-] to Marshfield I desire that she
would not forget to make mention of poor me, with my compliments to Mr.
Thomas and his most agreeable lady -- Sir you will acquaint Mr. Thomas
that I have not as yet been able to procure a set of Mr. Elliott’s essay on field
husbandry. As soon as I shall accomplish it I will take to forward them to you
by the first opportunity. We have nothing remarkable here -- I add .... your
obliged friend and very humble servant William Adams
Book: 1
Number: 86
Date: 1/18/1760
To: Thomas Dering
From: Daniel Farnham
Place: Newberry
Newberry January 18, 1760
Dear Sir
Yours of the 13th instant is now before me and by it I perceive my deposition
relative to your suit with Mr. Packer is not satisfactory. Please to consider
that every witness ought to be an impartial relation of faith just as they were
whether they make for or against the party deferring him to be sworn and
ought to throw off all attachment and connection heretofore between them.
I mean so as that his testimony thereby should not be affected upon those
principally I drew up my deposition sent you and as is there are set forth. I
conceive the facts to be I do not remember that the court said that the laws
of other governments and the rules of their courts they had nothing to do
with and yet one of the judges might so say and undoubtedly did if you
59
perfectly remember it’s as you say you do. Neither can I, on oath, say in those
words.
You have pointed out Mr. Winthrop’s calculation was offered in the case and
refuted. For I am not mistaken we did not offer it to be received as part of
the case. Mr. Winthrop not been sworn to it and so no more than any man’s
calculation and indeed then one of your own. But offered it as a rule or guide
to the court in making up judgment on the Bond.
That calculation being founded on principles of manifest equity and justice.
But the court regarded it not. Now to swear that the calculation was offered
and refused causes it undoubtedly this meaning that it was offered as part
of the case and refuted to be received as such which I cannot take upon me
to say otherwise then in the manner I have related in my testimony. I am
heartily inclined to serve you in every way consistent with that integrity and
uprightness every fair and honest man ought to preserve and am persuaded
you desired nothing else. I am your friend and most humble servant Daniel
Farnham
Thomas Dering’s answer:
Sir
This accompanies the copy of the case between Thomas Packer Esq.
and myself as to myself and the forgoing [-] of my father. Mr. Pratt has
conducted ye affairs for me here and promised me to write you more fully
upon it than I am capable of. All I desire is justice done me which can’t
obtain in the government where I have been obliged to prosecute it. Upon
Mr. Pratt’s recommendation I have put ye affair into your hands in hopes
you will expedite the settlement of it sooner than if I had desired my stated
correspondents to have done in a great difficulty often arises here against
appealing home as the affairs are very much retarded or neglected by
gentlemen at home. The settlement of this case is much depended upon by
many and perhaps (if you tarry in England) may be ye means of bringing
you more business from this side of water. You will have a letter enclosed
to Charlton Palmer Esq. from the Hon. Lt. Gov. of this Province whom
he recommends to me as a solicitor and a worthy gentleman and tells me
believes will be the most likely person to do me justice and take ye best care
of the affair as he is so recommended desire he may be employed for me.
If he is dead or declines engaging in the business desire you would employ
gentleman you think will be the most careful and diligently [---]
Mr. John Gooch of Messrs.Trucottick Tomlinson and House in London for
£40 Sterling to commence the business and shall be glad to hear from you by
[-] unity of ye reception of it [-] ye other papers whatever more is necessary
you will be kind enough to point me at the same time I am your very humble
servant Thomas Dering
Mr. John Gardiner
Boston July 27, 1759
PS Mr. Pratt has assured me he will enclose you the state of the case by this
60
opportunity. One thing his Hon. ye Lt. Gov. advised me to recommended to
my friends to [-] large damages as the expense of prosecuting the affair will
be attended with great charge the deposition of Mr. Winthrop was offered
upon trial in the case but refused [-] as before.
Boston October 27, 1759 Sir, the foregoing is copy of which I wrote ye 27
July last sent by Mr. Hollowell who promised me to take particular care of
delivering to you as soon as he arrives since which have not been favored with
any from you, by this opportunity send you duplicates of your papers and
desire nothing may be [-] to expedite the affair and when ever you will let me
know which money will be further wanted will send it by first opportunity. I
congratulate you on your Glorious success of his Majesty’s arms in the year
campaign in North America and hope [-] succeeding winter will procure
us an honorable standing Peace and am your very humble servant Thomas
Dering
Mr. John Gardiner at William Persons’ Chinaman opposite to Saint
Dunston’s and close adjoining to the Temple London
• Margaret Sylvester, Mary’s older sister, married David Chesebrough of Newport in 1749. David’s great-grandfather
William Chesebrough founded Stonington, Connecticut. David was known as “King” because he was the weathiest man in
Newport.
• David’s sister Abigail married Thomas Mumford. In 1752, their son Thomas married Catherine Havens, a daughter of
Jonathan and Catharine Nicoll Havens of Shelter Island. One of Catherine’s sisters, Anna, married Thomas Fosdick. Her
brother Nicoll married, Sarah Fosdick, first, and Desiree Brown, second.
• Nicoll Havens was the father of Jonathan Nicoll Havens (the Congressman), Esther Sarah Havens (who would marry
Sylvester Dering), Mary Catherine (who would marry Ezra L’Hommedieu), Catherine Mary Havens (who would marry
Henry Huntington), whose daughter would eventually marry Nicoll Havens Dering, son of Sylvester and Esther Sarah
Dering, and Renssaelaer (who became a very successful New York City businessman and the source of many services,
including ‘banker’ to his many cousins). These relationships may seem confusing to us, but to these folks, they were well
understood and very important because social and business interactions generally only took place between people who were
related.
• Abigail Chesebrough was born on May 16, 1734 to Abigail Rogers and David Chesebrough. Margaret, Mary Dering’s
sister, was her step-mother. On October 6, 1760 she married Alexander Grant in Newport. She was 26 years old. When
she was sixteen years old she inherited half of her maternal grandmother’s real and personal estates in Bristol, Rhode
Island. She was also her father’s sole surviving child, which made her heiress to one of the largest fortunes in Newport. She
had met Alexander Grant, born in 1733 probably in Scotland, when he was in Newport in 1752 on business representing
his wealthy employer, relative, and benefactor, Sir Alexander Grant, Baronet of Dalvey, a London merchant. Alexander
had to return to London, but fully expected to return to Newport. Lord Grant, unfortunately had other plans, and even in
1759 Alexander had no expectations of returning to Newport. Ezra Stiles, a resident of Newport and who would in 1778
become the president of Yale, was a friend of Alexander’s and correspondence between them reveals that he not only intended
to return to Newport but also that Nabby (Abigail) Chesebrough was special to him. He returned to Newport in 1760,
however, and as soon as they were married, he took her to live in Halifax. [Boonstra, Ibid., October 2002, pages 378379.]
61
Book: 1
Number: 87
Date: 2/7/1760
To: Thomas Dering
From: Abigail Chesebrough
Place: Newport
Dear Sir
Be pleased to deliver of the enclosed, thinking it most safe to send them
under covers, Capt. Cox being a stranger to the family. That you are not
only deserving but really have the esteem of those who are so happy as to
have your acquaintance is an undoubted truth therefore your wishes are
answered and I esteem it one of the happy circumstances of my life that of
being ranked amongst them your kind invitation does not pass unnoticed
but you must put me in a way of returning some of these favors least my
mind be overburdened with the weight of its obligations if good wishes could
compensate you have the best of Dear Sir your AC Newport Wednesday
morning past light
Part of this with the enclosed has been wrote some time however it will do
to go now just as well as when I broke the seal to enclose a little more chit
chat to Hepzi and as I have made an addition I desired to apologize for my
neglect and in not mention the dear boy who is doubtless very near your
heart quite right this if not to near the little things insensibly twin about the
heart and sometimes draw it from God I believe dear Sir you are careful not
to have this your case may God bless your blessings, may the dear creature
live and be to you both a crown of rejoicing.
Newport Wednesday morning past light
• An advertisement in the Boston Post-Boy on Monday, March 17, 1760: THOMAS & HENRY DERING Hereby
inform their Customers that they have removed from the Store they kept on Thomas Greene, Esq’s, Wharf, to one opposite the
South-Side of Fanueil Hall; where early Attendance will be given, and Care taken, that their Goods be put agreeable to their
Orders, likewise at as low a Rate, as if they were present to purchase them.
Book: 1
Number: 88
Date: 3/18/1760
To: Thomas Dering
From: Margaret
Chesebrough
Place: Newport
Newport March 18
Dear Brother
I have but a few minutes to answer yours by Mr. Williamson. I think
him a very sensible man and a very good preacher. I am sorry to hear of
your lameness but hope you are better. Pray let me hear from you by this
opportunity. I’m very sorry to tell you that I find it is disagreeable, my going
Boston the spring that you must not expect me, it being just about the time
that Mr. C goes to Stonington. I hope though we are separated on earth we
shall meet in a better world and spend a blessed eternity together where there
will be no disappointments [---] no sorrow no sicking. In your last you did not
let me know whether I had been successful or not. I must conclude with love
and compliments to all friends your affectionate sister Margaret Chesebrough
• Thomas and Henry’s business burned to the ground, but their home was preserved.
Book: 1
Number: 89
Date: 4/7/1760
To: Thomas Dering
From: Sarah Thomas
Place: Marshfield
62
Marshfield April 7, 1760
Dear Brother
I would console with you upon the late melancholy fire you have had in
town as well as at the same time rejoice with you that in the midst of it your
dwelling was preserved. I hope err this your leg is got pretty well and if it
was not at that awful time believe it was a great mortification to you that
you could not go to help your poor distressed friends. It is a dreadful thing
to hear it related and sure it must be much worse to be present and behold
it. I have sent you the sermon I promised you with two more which I think
I was to send for Mr. Elliott and Mr. Goldthwaite if they inclined to have
them though I can’t say they are worth accepting -- you will be kind enough
to deliver them -- Mr. Thomas would be much obliged to you if you can get
the boy for him till he is one and 20 and if he is a smart likely lad rather than
miss of him would promised to give him 100 pound when he was of age if
he behaves himself well. Pray remember my love to Mrs. Dering and let her
know the knitting needles came safe to hand and if she thinks she shall have
no use for them suddenly with her leave I will finish a pair that I have begun
before I make use of her needles. I at present am very unwell with a sore
throat and bad cold that I don’t do much work in a day, but will endeavored
to return them with care as soon as I possibly can which concludes me your
affectionate sister Sarah Thomas
Book: 1
Number: 90
Date: 4/16/1760
To: Hannah Tomlison
From: Anne Huntington
Place: Wyndham
Wyndham 16 April 1760
Dear Sister
I can’t express to you half the commotions that rise in my mind when I
reflect on our parting. There seems to be something stronger than the ties of
nature that binds us together when I attempt to write to you have so many
things crowd into my imagination that I can think of nothing long enough to
write it.
I thank you for your kind letters you sent me according to my request am
sorry have not had opportunity to answer it till now. Rejoice to hear in sister
L you enjoy health and I were content may long continue and increase to you
and likewise him that is dear to you which I daresay implies no more than
the same. Our mama and all friends at Wyndham are in common health
except sister Wales who is poorly as she has sundry times been before. She is
[-] while I am writing this and sends her kind love to you and longs to see you
as you know, Sister, we all do. Wales has sent you some seeds not knowing
what others were sent. I am at brother W’s. I’ve just come from home this
morning and left a letter for you which I wrote last night. Informed brother
Job to seal it and bring it along with him this morning but he left it behind.
So Sister I believe you might accept this rude sentiment of my love and not
expose it to strangers.
Please to give mama my best regards to your Grand Dada and Mama, my
good wishes and love to the Captain. Should be exceedingly glad to see him
and you before he goes into the campaign. My compliments to Miss Dolly
with whom I should be fond of an acquaintance. Farewell, dearest sister,
most affectionately yours Anne Huntington
PS I see Miss GE last eve. She bid me write you her complements. Dianna’s
friends are all well and send their love also ... [-] send her love and need I not
tell you I want a letter very [-]
• Margaret’s rejoicing over her sister’s delivery of a live child, a little girl named Elizabeth, was short lived. Although
baptized at the New Brick Church in Boston, her life was short. Their first son Henry Sylvester, born in 1757 had also died
at about 8 months. [Eaton, Arthur Wentworth Hamilton, The New York Genealogical and Biographical Record, January
1921.]
63
Book: 1
Number: 92
Date: 4/24/1760
To: Thomas Dering
From: Margaret
Chesebrough
Place: Newport
Newport April 24, 1760
My dear Brother and Sister
I rejoice in God’s goodness to you in granting a safe delivery to my dear
Sister and making her a living mother of a living child. I pray that began [-]
may be perfected and that my dear and only sister may be restored to perfect
health again and that the dear child’s life may be spared to you and that it
may be a blessing in it day if it be the will of heaven to spare it to you that
you may be unable to dedicate and give it up to God and only look on it as
sent that whenever God shall call for it that you may with submission resend
to him that gave it. I cannot be thankful enough for this great Manse. I’ve
been very thoughtful on the account of my dear Sister and she is but seldom
out of my mind and greatly concerned that I could not be with you. But now
think it was for the best for I really believe I should have done more harm
than good. I should only have aggravated your troubles had I been there. I
now long to be with you that I might set by my sister and keep her company
and tend the little ones. I am about to think that Sylvester would be the
favorite at present though I am greatly pleased that you have a daughter. If I
may be allowed to speak of its name I hope it will be called after Mr. Dering
family if it is alive and I am to fear it is not living by what you wrote me. Pray
let me hear as soon as possible if the opportunity presents soon. Pray write by
the post, and O my dear friend let us magnify and praise the Lord for all his
goodness towards us. We have abundant reason to praise the Lord and glorify
God. O that we may study what we shall render to God for all his goodness
towards us and O that we may live as well as speak his praise that we may
devote ourselves to his service. I did tell in my last letter to you that if at any
time you should look upon my sister as dangerous you would let me know it
indeed. I have no reason to doubt of it but I must [-] I rejoice to hear that she
was so well. I very well know that she has everything done for her that can be
and the best help that is to be had in this part of the world, which makes me
much easier then I should otherwise be. I very well know with that without
a blessing the best means will fail and desire to commit you and all that is
near and dear to me to the divine protection and [-] wishing you the same
blessings that I do [-] own soul I am with the greatest affection your sister
who wish to see you and be with you Margaret Chesebrough
Mrs. Richards give more love than my letter will have to say. Let me know
how many dollars I own you. My love and compliments to all friends.
• Brinley Sylvester, Mary Dering’s father and proprietor of Sylvester Manor, had died on Christmas Eve, 1752. His family’s
pastor, William Adams, moved from Shelter Island sometime thereafter and took up residence with his brother and his wife in
New London.
Book: 1
Number: 91
Date: 4/26/1760
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Adams
Place: New London
64
New London April 26, 1760
Dear Sir
Yours of 24th [list of dates and places] I received by your emissaries; they come
by Mr. Byles with hardy acknowledgments therefore I rejoice with you in
God’s goodness in delivering you from lameness and confinement and for
the comfortable state of health you enjoy as also Mrs Dering with the rest of
your most agreeable family. I long to see you all but when or whether ever we
shall meet again in this world is known only to God and altogether with him.
O may we be so happy as to have a joyful meeting in the world of infinity!
And spend a blissful eternity together in the realm of light and love and joy
and peace! I was greatly obliged to you for the agreeable entertainment I
have received in the friendship of Mr. Elliott’s and Mr. Cooper’s ingenious
delivery. I should have sent the money for the fish by this opportunity had
I been able to have procured silver or gold then which hardly anything is
scarce at this juncture amongst us. I hope by the next I shall procure it.
The [-] is something considerably debated that has been for some time
very prevalent amongst us. Please give to remember me to Mrs. Dering
Miss Hepzi and Mr. Henry and to all inquiring friends I am sure your most
affectionately William Adams
PS As Mr. Byles makes a visit to his friends in Boston so often we suspect
whether he has not someone in his eye among you whom he is endeavoring
to engage to be a helpmate and Bosson friend. But he keeps those matters as
an impenetrable secret.
• Jacob Mallman, author of Shelter Island and its Presbyterian Church, which contains the genealogical tables of all of
its members’ families, states that Mary and Thomas’s second child, a daughter Elizabeth, was born in April of 1762.
However, this next group of letters suggest that she was born in 1760. (There were actually two babies called Elizabeth.
The first one died.)
Book: 1
Number: 93
Date: 5/2/1760
To: Thomas Dering
From: John Wentworth
Place: Portsmouth
Portsmouth May 2, 1760
Dear Sir
I received your favor by post informing Dudley James his order for one kilo
wheat bran, which I’ve forwarded and am very much obliged for your care
in shipping. I sincerely congratulate you and good Mrs. Dering on the arrival
of your young lady to town and wish her stay may be long and happy to you
and do assure you that I pleased myself very much in hopes of soon seeing
you all. This at present it is a very hurrying time with us. I am sorry for the
misfortune of your being wounded and hope you a speedy recovery. The
compliments of our family wait on you from your most obliged and humble
servant J Wentworth
Book: 1
Number: 95
Date: 10/16/1760
To: Thomas Dering
From: Sarah Thomas
Place: Marshfield
Brother
I received your letter by Nelly and am obliged to you for your promised care
about my chair. I wrote you last week about some damask I had desired Mrs.
Wentworth to get for me but have since heard from her that it was disposed
of and there was no green worsted damask to be had in town and that silk
damask would turn out as cheap so shall leave it with you to do as you think
most proper. Should be obliged to you to get me some check lining covering
for it and I forget whether I wrote you before that I heard the upholsterers
asked three pound for making a covering for an easy chair of any sort. If so
should be glad you would get them to cut it out and put it out to some girls to
make. Perhaps Sarah Leonard will make it and I think that will be much the
cheapest way of getting it done. Pray my best regards to Mrs. Chesebrough
if still with you. I should been very glad to have seen her if it had suited her
but wish I may live to have that pleasure some time or other if not now in the
meantime I remain your most affectionate sister Sarah Thomas Marshfield
October ye 16 1760
65
• Thomas’s court case for her father’s estate against Thomas Packer, which was sent to the Colonial Privy Council in
London was adjudicated in Thomas’s faver on July 11, 1760. The decision can be found as follows: Acts of the Privy
Council, Colonial Series, v. 4[407]p.433-436 (1759-1760), available at http://amesfoundation.law.harvard.edu/
ColonialAppeals/images/APC/APC4_433_436.pdf (visited Nov. 1. 2014.)
Book: 1
Number: 96
Date: 1/1/1761
To: Thomas Dering
From: Theodore Atkinson
Place: In the Army
[-] Army
New Year’s Day 1761
Kinsman Dering
I have some time waited an opportunity by a private hand to acknowledge the
receipt of yours by Capt. Emerson conveying the judgment of the King and
counsel versus Packer. Our Superior Court before whom that judgment must
be laid [-] not sit [-] pray next when I shall execute your order relative there
to. I have shown it to Mr. Packer. He would be glad you would let him know
if bills of exchange will answer your demand. If so he proposed today of the
judgment before May next. Other way it will be uncertain whether he will be
able by that time to exchange his paper for silver or gold. Many happy years
to good Mrs. Dering and yourself [-] and to my Coz Henry and consider me
your obedient kinsmen and very humble servant Theodore Atkinson
Pray don’t forget my compliments to Miss Hepzi. If the post had got in here
in season I would have endeavored to have center on his return a New Year’s
gift -- a husband -- but the frost has dried him up like [-]
Book: 1
Number: 94
Date: 5/10/1761
To: Thomas Dering
From: Margaret
Chesebrough
Place: Newport
Newport May 10
My Dear Brother and Sister
I have not heard one word from you since my sister was first put to bed.
They say that no news is good news. I am really anxious to hear from you
and to know how it is with you. In my last, which was by Mr. Collins, I beg
of you to write by the post if no opportunity should present but not one word
I take it a little hard. Pray let me hear by this conveyance which is Capt.
Gardner’s grandson and be good enough to let me know if you have recieved
those things I sent by water. It is Sabbath day night and our bedtime so have
only time to scribble two or three lines in very bad manner; a very bad time
and in a very great hurry so most conclude with love and compliments your
affectionate sister Margaret Chesebrough
Mr. Chesebrough goes this week to [-]. Pray let me know whether the little
girl is alive.
Book: 1
Number: 97
Date: 1/1/1761
To: Thomas Dering
From: Abigail
Chesebrough
Place: Newport
Dear Sir
Am not pleased to hear Mumford put my letters into the office. It was
my intention that he should deliver them himself and charge me with the
postage but as he is gone counter to my order shall be sparing of paper in
future Was it not for that important trifle, a stomach, I believe, should not
have wrote this week but being incomplete without it must beg to have it
sent when the post returns. Private conveyances are seldom to be found and
in truth few are willing to be troubled with what is not their own when they
reap no advantage by it.
I’ve the pleasure of telling Mrs. D my cousin Cole was better when we heard
66
last, which is not many days since am in hopes she’ll recover this shock and
be continued to her dear babies for many years for certainly the loss of a
tender mother is an unspeakable an irrepairable one -- we have been pleasing
ourselves with the prospect the easterly winds have afforded but they’ve not
yet produced the much-needed affect -- rain is yet withheld and nature
continues to mourn. Wish it may lead us to repentance -- Miss Smith left
us Wednesday evening. I miss her much. She’s a good girl and hope will get
a H___ of the same character as to Kettle. Shall let this alone as get -- I’m
at a stand about furniture for my best parlor. I want something better than
leather. What shall it be -- your taste is the thing that determines. Nabby
Chesebrough
• Margaret had heard that her sister Mary was not well and neither were the two children, Sylvester and Elizabeth. She
felt helpless and anxious. Mrs. Grant was Alexander Grant’s mother, and she had arrived from London to attend her son’s
wedding to Abigail Chesebrough.
Book: 2
Number: 101
Date: 1/1/1761
To: Thomas Dering
From: Margaret
Chesebrough
Place: Newport
Dear brother and sister
I received yours by Mrs. Grant [-]. Was glad to hear from you. I began to
fear that if it was not for miss I should never know how you did -- whether
sick or not. My spirits are sunk at the thoughts of not seeing you this fall but
hope a kind Providence will not suffer anything to prevent. I am very torn
to hear that the dear children are so poorly but hope to hear that they are
better. My dear sister let me beg of you not to neglect yourself. What is the
matter, pray apply to some doctor before it is too late.
Will not a [-] be of last [-] to you dear brother. Let me beg of you to consult
some doctor whether she will or not and you will oblige your sister whose
happiness very much depends on yours and family. I am up writing at 5
o’clock. Fear I shall not have opportunity or time to go by post. I have
received my fan. I like it much. I think it [-]. I have not seen my [-] yet: I must
desire you to get the suit of muslin and find as soon as you can. I should have
taken this [--] before but feared you would say out of your mind but believe
that will not be a danger now. I must also desire you to get me something to
wear over my shoulders. My Polanse is so old fashion that I look peculiar. I
shall leave it with you to get what you think suitable for me, remembering I
am large over the shoulders. I really think I want to have had something new
on this occasion: but really to see me he cannot get himself the last rage. He’s
so scared that he wants it very much but how ever I do there is now and to
some folks desires but really behave then will believe to somebody’s [-] at
this point: the [-] now will out indeed that is but [-] but what believes that
there are married and have done for some time I really was very glad to [--] I
hope he is come to deliver me from some of my troubles. I have 1000 things
to say but must conclude with love and compliments your affectionate sister
Margaret Chesebrough
Book: 2
Number: 98
Date: 1/23/1761
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Adams
Place: New London
New London January 23, 1761
Dear Sir
Yours of the seventh January by Mr. Coffin came safe to hand and I must tell
you if you knew how much I interest myself in your welfare I should hear
from you oftener than I do. I am grieved for Mrs. Dering laboring under so
painful and distressing a malady as the rheumatism and wish for nothing
more than power and opportunity to administer to her help and relief, as I
67
can’t but remember with gratitude, I hope. How often here to fore I have
experienced her care and tenderness when I have been experienced with
the like difficulties. I hope to hear in your next of Mrs. Dering’s recovery to
perfect health and the prosperous circumstances of your whole family.
You write me to purchase a ticket for you in Mr. Stuart’s lottery. If there
be a prospect of it being soon drawn as it does not appear to me from the
best light I can get, that the managers, of whom my brother is one, will
be in a [-] to draw it for some months longer I think it prudent to delay
purchasing till I can hear again from you; when upon your desire, I shall do
it with the greatest cheerfulness and freedom. I am at present through God’s
goodness, in a comfortable state of health for an old man and considering the
uncommon severity of the winter and no kind companion to [-] and warm
me these cold long tedious nights (I wonder how Miss Hepzt holds it).
In November last I made a visit to the Island and harried year of fortnight
at the delight [-] of my dear departed friend where I had spent so many
of the most agreeable as well as some of the most painful hours of my life.
Mr. Fanning who is really a valuable worthy man by what I could perceive,
and I took good notice, manages very well. The farm appears in good order
and I can but think he has exact a regard to his landlord’s interests in the
management of it as to his own. He complains that his landlords will not
vouch safe him the honor of a visit of which he is extremely desirous. If you
should think of obliging him in this respect in the ensuing spring or summer
(and I believe such a journey would no way inconvenient or endanger your
health) I should be very glad of the opportunity if God permit to wait upon
you here and accompany you thither. I send by the bearer Mr. Coffin 48/ of
which I beg you will take full satisfaction for the the quintet of fifth you was
so good as to procure me and the remainder to be applied at your discretion
for the relief of some one of the sufferers by the great fire. I am heartily
concerned for the [-] calamity and distress the town of Boston has suffered
by the fire of the last week. You will please to remember me to Mrs. Dering,
Miss Hepzi, and your worthy brother in the most affectionate manner.
Salute the dear babes (Misses Name I don’t know) for me my regards to all
inquiring friends I am your obliged friend and servant William Adams[----]....
Book: 2
Number: 100
Date: 2/7/1761
To: Thomas Dering
From: Theodore Atkinson
Place: Portsmouth
68
Portsmouth February 7, 1761
I this moment received yours of the 27th of last month and as Mr. Packer
is now much out of order and confined I may not have very soon an
opportunity of seeing him therefore will venture to tell you in answer to your
queries that the bills [-] I [-] by anybody he must endorse them to you and
tis impossible for him at this time to tell who they will be drawn upon till
he meets with an opportunity of [-] them as the proposed sterling bills they
must be drawn on Great Britain or sterling money is a currency in no offer
place and the light no doubt fairly days but I believe he will not trouble you
with bills as I am sure he may purchase silver or gold more readily here than
bills though I imagine he had an eye to our bills and had a [-] to our .... [Did
not continue transcribing…]
Book: 2
Number: 99
Date: 3/21/1761
To: Thomas Dering
From: Andrew Oliver, Jr.
Place: Salem
Book: 2
Number: 102
Date: 5/5/1761
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Adams
Place: New London
Salem 21 March 1761
Dear Sir
You know very well that your father’s bond has been in both principal and
interest a long time. I have desired you several times to give a new bond for
both that so we might not lose the interest of what interest is due, which
amounts to about £ 12 OTM week and which hitherto we have made a
present of to your father’s estate though perhaps some of the heirs neither
know it nor thank us for it. The objection you made to that proposal was
that the judge of probate would not allow you what interest you might pay in
consequence of it, but could that be any objection when the law and reason
too would infallibly give in to us? For my part I have been a good while
uneasy and losing too much a year out of my pocket but have been tender
of mentioning it to you on account of friendship proporting between us.
However the method I now propose I hope will be no interruption to it as
it is no way unreasonable that we should receive the interest of the money
when above two or three years ago some of your father’s estate was sold to
pay off this very debt among others. The interest of which the estate received
for that as it then at present Col. Brattle and I made your estate as observed
before at present of some hundred a year we propose therefore to sue the
bond and then what is recovered no judge of probate under heaven can
make you pay out of your own pocket without allowing it to you I apprehend
and therefore in this method will be united your safety and the interest of.
Your most ...
New London May 5, 1761
Dear Sir
I have received yours of 13th April by Mr. Penniman and rejoice to hear of
the comfortable circumstances of your good family. I am at present greatly
disordered with an unusual and properly epidemical cold; for it prevades
through the whole town and but few escape it. Our family have been almost
all down with it at once and not yet recovered so that we have not had well
enough to attend the sick and do the necessary business about the house; and
this has been the case with many other families, which has rendered the [-]
more particularly depressing.
When Mr. Penniman returned from Boston I was absent on a journey so
that I did not receive your letter in eight or 10 days after it came to town.
During my absence the managers of Mr. Stuart’s lottery began drawing.
Otherwise I should have purchased you a ticket agreeable to your desire. I
understand indeed that Mr. Stewart continues selling tickets but I suppose
they will not give themselves the trouble to examine the books to find what
are already drawn for the sake of selling two or three tickets and as at present
I am not in condition to go abroad I believe it will be best holy to omitted. I
am sorry to hear that you have any returns of your old disorders but as you
have experienced the benefit of riding as a remedy to abate and remove it I
can’t but hope you will put your good thoughts into execution and honor us
with a visit. (And what is there to hinder Mrs. Dering from accompanying
you in such a tour? It is not very improbable but a journey may greatly tend
to restore and confirm her health and I am sure she has friends here and at
69
the island to whom a visit from her will be very pleasing and acceptable and
whom, let me tell, her she should not entirely to forget and abandon.)
I hope, Sir, you will do me word at what time I may have the pleasure of
waiting upon you here that I may not be out of the way. Mr. Byles is now
setting out for Boston upon the important affair of procuring a mate help or
help mate (which is Miss Hepzi? Or what’s the difference?) And proposed to
be absent three or four Sabbath’s and as I am willing to forward so good a
[-] in him I have given him some encouragement to supply his pulpit all or
most of the time. The last of this month I shall hope you will give us leave to
expect you and shall greatly enjoy any way to contribute to your satisfaction
and advantage. My best and most affectionate regards to Mrs. Dering and
the children, Miss Hepzi, Mr. Harry with proper compliments to all inquiring
friends I am your obliged friend and very humble servant William Adams
• In the 1760s, there was very little organized postal service. And what did exist was very expensive, and charged to the
receiver and not the sender. One was forced to find a ship or stage coach heading to the place or in the direction of the place to
where a letter or parcel was headed. Of course, casual acquaintances or strangers could not be considered reliable, and certainly
were not trustworthy. No one doubted that their mail would be read in transit, Sending money was even more complicated than
sending news: only close relatives could be trusted with money. Sea captains, out of necessity, along with stage coach drivers,
became the principal mail carriers. What mail service there was, was very expensive, and the cost was paid by the recipient.
Book: 2
Number: 103
Date: 5/9/1761
To: Thomas Dering
From: Margaret
Chesebrough
Place: Newport
Newport May 9, 1761
Dear Brother and Sister
I received yours by Mr. Babcock which brought me the heavy tidings of
the disasters of your family: my dear friends I am so large a sharer in your
afflictions that really I am hardly capable of writing to you or administering
any comfort to you. I feel so much myself that I fear I shall rather add to your
sorrow than administer any consolation by what you wrote I fear my child
is not. I cannot say calling him mine for really I was ready to look on him as
such.
O, how amassing my stupidity and my unbelief when I have so often been
taught that these things are not for me. That I abuse them when sent (that
my affections are too much sat on them that they have too much [-] in my
heart.) O my dear friend what shall I say to you. I wish it was in my power to
administer some consolation but alas miserable comfort news as we all accept
the God of all manner the God of conciliation of fear for ours in the dark day
it not in the town of our earthly friends to get our and real satisfaction may
the God of all grace support and comfort you under all your trials and under
this sore trials whom he loves he rebukes and christens. I hope this and every
other affliction will work out for you a far more exceeding and eternal weight
of glory.
It is certainly our indispensable duty to submit to a loving God but in
these cases when the desire of our eyes are taken from ours a dear earthly
enjoyment removed we find much opposition to the divine will. At least I
find it so I deserve to be humble for it. May God give our right tempers of
mind may we submit in a right manner and may what we are meeting with
in life serve to wean us from this world and the things of it. How uncertain
70
is everything in life daily experience is teaching of us. And may our hearts
and [--] on things heavenly and divine those are durable riches those will
last beyond the grave. My dear friend, pray let me hear from you as soon as
possible. I am impatient to hear and afraid to hear. I believe this will put a
stop to my going to Stonington. I expect to have a very dull season indeed.
This I desire by Mr. Styles by whom I find the money for my stays $10
one [-] and two dollars I should be glad to have them as soon as you can
conveniently send them. It is a very sickly time here with bad colds. I must
conclude with wishing the [-] of God spirit which is not a few more final I’m
yours [-] affectionate sister Margaret Chesebrough
Book: 2
Number: 104
Date: 5/18/1761
To: Thomas Dering
From: Theodore Atkinson
Place: Portsmouth
Book: 2
Number: 106
Date: 5/21/1761
To: Thomas Dering
From: Margaret
Chesebrough
Place: Newport
Thomas Dering
Portsmouth May 18, 1761
On the morrow the Superior Court of Judicuture sits here when I’ll propose
some motion should be made in order to get a judgment agreeable to
the order of his Majesty in court and do not know that there will be any
opposition from Mr. Packer but [-] twill be necessary to have an appearance
with proper instructions and wrote you a favor some time since but I heard
nothing from you and no application for the papers you here to fore sent me
I am at a loss what to do with them. [-] Take care somehow to push them
into court but further than that will be improper from me I think I did not
sit in judgment in that case and I should not now. There will be a necessity
to apply for special justice here are but fear of the standing court preferred
-- and then if this is a case for from similar do anything of the kind in the
province arguments may be used that may not be proper for me to say
anything in those limits will show you the proper priority of your directions
to some of the ....
Newport May 21, 1761
Dear Brother
I received yours by post and am really surprised and distressed for the dear
child to think what he undergoes by his continuing so long and cannot but
hope he may recover. But O how little do we know what is but for ours.
Perhaps what we are so desirous of may be the greatest trouble to us of
anything in life. I really think I have been too desirous of the life of this dear
child. I think I had of greater resignation than ever I have felt yet but must
say was it the will of heaven. I should rejoice to hear that it is restored to you
again whether living or dying may it be the Lord’s. My dear friends your
trials are great. I heartily [-] this with you may you be supported or delivered
in God’s time. His time is the best time. Whom God loves he chastens. If you
are without chased you are bastards and not sons. I hope this rod is in your
heavenly father’s hand and if so he sees it need full for you. O what [-] your
creatures are we that we must so often have the rod so often start a side from
God and duty. Old may this sore trial work out for our and far more and
eternal want of glory.
Miss Holton sends her love to Mrs. Dering. Poor woman is like soon to
part with her only son here all. He has almost grown to be a man and turn
prospect of something handsome from his uncle in London. Poor woman I
pity her. She is our witness with sorrow. I believe will not live long after him.
71
Pray let me hear from you by the post. Give your letters to the post rider and
I shall have them safe. I think I shall never be so backward of sending by the
post as I have been.
Mrs. Wilkinson is sitting by me. She desires her love to my sister. She is a [-]
friend. I am very [-] I cannot say [-] one friend or another is certainly with
me. Indeed I think I have to be alone sometime but I am apt to think it would
not be good for me. My dear love to my sister. I long to be with you but that
cannot be so must content myself with writing and receiving letters. I am
with tender affection your affectionate sister M Chesebrough
Book: 2
Number: 105
Date: 5/26/1761
To: Thomas Dering
From: Theodore Atkinson
Place: Portsmouth
Portsmouth May 26 at 6 AM Tuesday
Dear Sir
Your favor of the received. Mr. Styles we received but my father having
got the cold that now that prevails throughout the country renders him
incapable of writing you at present.
The Superior Court is now adjourned to the second Monday in June when I
suppose Mr. Farnham (who has got your papers) will get judgment entered.
What difficulty there may be in affecting it or whether there will be any tis
impossible to tell.
We are extremely sorry to hear of the indisposition of your family. Hope
your son are this is upon the recovery. Pray remember us to all your good
family and believe me to be with great sincerity your most affectionate
kinsman Theodore Atkinson Junior
PS pray be so good as to send me one bottle of pepper snuff by the bearer.
Book: 2
Number: 107
Date: 5/28/1761
To: Thomas Dering
From: Margaret
Chesebrough
Place: Newport
Newport May 28
Dear Brother
I received yours by post. I am really surprised to that the dear child is alive.
I sometimes wish I could be with you and then I think I could not bear the
sight. Sometimes an all wise Providence make these [mealliends] to make our
willing to Post with those that are dear to us. O my Dear friends what shall I
say to you. I wish it was in my power to administer comfort to you. Attenders
sympathy I am then I have and war it mind now. Don’t know that I could
feel more. I acknowledge your trials are great but when compared with some
others they are comparisons small. Mrs. Dering knows Mrs. Jane Brown wife
of Capt. Brown [-] She is with child pretty far advanced. They say that they
were married last fall but the world will not believe this.
I have heard that Doc Elston has married Nanny Cotton and that it was
this time this has given me great concern. I don’t think it is worthwhile to
say anything of this for it is possible it is not true but as I heard it I fear it
is. Oh my dear friend there are grievous trials indeed. May you never know
what they are in do that are nearer to you. I am very dull as you may easily
imagine. I have only one family with me except the young man that lodges
here. My friends have been [-] good in coming to see me.
72
Mrs. Nancy Coddington promised to come and lodge with me but she has
not been so good as her word. I believe she cannot do [-] as she would and
that is but for that can. My dear love to my sister. I long to bear a part of her
troubles indeed I do I knew her passions are strong may God grant his grace
to make a cure improvement of this [-] and may we all save the lesson that is
to be learnt. Sorrows do not spring out of the ground; they are put for some
wise land. I must conclude with wishing you all needed supports from your
affectionate loving sister M Chesebrough
Pray let me hear from you by post.
Book: 2
Number: 108
Date: 6/29/1761
To: Thomas Dering
From: Margaret
Chesebrough
Place: Newport
Newport June 29
Dear Brother
I just received yours by post as I truly sympathized with you when the dear
child was sick. I now rejoice with you in God’s Goodness towards you in
nursing your dear son to such a measure of health. I hope he’s begun [-] may
be perfect and that he may be spared mark in and not in judgment. I hope he
is spared for some great and good end. My earnest desire is that God wants
to take possession of his soul for himself. I had rather see him good than
great without goodness. O may he be continued a great comfort to you for
a great while to come if it is the will of heaven. I long to see him and all my
dear friends at Boston. I hope you propose to bring Mrs. Dering to Newport
this fall. Oh that I could ask you to bring Sylvester and Betsy; it would be
the greatest pleasure to meet in life to have you all with me provided I could.
Do as in times past when in my father’s house but that is too great a pleasure
for me. I must be filled with other people’s relations and it is no more than I
ought to do and have no thanks but rather ill-treatment.
But I desired to forbear and remember not a hair of my head fall to ground
without the promise of Providence. Oh pray for me. I hope that there is not a
day passes but we are mindful of each other at the throne of grace as to miss
affairs I know were letters about them. I ask to know [-] she did tell me of
her clothes but as to other things I don’t know what she has and I desired to
be thankful I am not anxious to know. I know so much that [-] comes out of
considerable [-] out of somebody’s estate that they would not adore had one
if they could help it but no matter perhaps that passion may have enough to
come here to her grace and indeed I don’t doubt but with the to my hardy [-]
my stays do not fit.
I am obliged to my dear sister for her care and trouble in getting and should
be as much more if she could get the man to take them a [-] there is a
mistake somewhere or other the same person must see the day you and to
do they are too small and too short waisted. I never sought to dare piece of
stays with so narrow backs in my life. They are a neat pair. I fear if I have
them other they will be spilt. I sent for a stay made and they told me then but
feared they would not answer that it would be a beast piece of work. I shall
do all I can to part with them here but fear nobody will give them [-] for they
make stays to outward appearance as good as these for sixty pounds. I must
beg the favor of my sister to talk with the man and see if he will not take
them again if he will not and I can not part with them. I must have them
73
altered in the best manner I can.
I must desire you to write me by the post without fail. I must put this with
my other mortifications for really I have a pretty main. But perhaps it is
necessary for me. I sometimes look with admiration to see how some folks
affairs turn out just as they could wish. No sooner desire a thing but have it.
But I am apt to think those golden days are almost at an end. Did you know
what I know you would think so too, but I must not in harkin if I should write
all I have to say. It is not 3 nor 6 sheets of paper would hold it all. I leave
eyes shall tire you with my nonsense for I write just what comes uppermost
without conscience. I very well know that I am writing to a dear friend that
overlooks my faults and covers all my [-] but one thing I must desire that you
be kind enough to comment them to the [-]. My dear love to my sister and
the dear babes and accept the same from your affectionate sister Margaret
Chesebrough
As to my parting with my [-] he says very little. No doubt it will be a very
hard thing to him if he ever does. I always thought that he must meet with a
great cross somewhere or another. I pity him for he is not without his trials. I
have not had one pleasant look nor one word for the 2 days. What the cause
is I know not, but he has his trials. I like my [-] very much. The [-] not [-] I
now send a dollar to pay what I am behind the 2 [-] that will do.
Book: 2
Number: 109
Date: 7/15/1761
To: Thomas Dering
From: Abigail
Chesebrough
Place: Newport
Dear Sir
It is but a few hours since I received yours by post and need I say it gave
me pleasure. It would mortify me should you think me under a necessity of
saying as the result of such a that must be an accusation of ingratitude. You
have engaged me in your interest by innumerable favors and laid me under
the strongest obligation by your business and generosity, though a sufficient
compensation is not at present in my power yet a grateful acknowledgment
of them is accept therefore my incessant thanks and believe me to have a
high sense of the favors received. My journey was as agreeable as the season
would admit of and I had the satisfaction of finding the family in health. The
dear boy’s recovery has restored to my mama her spirits, and she longs much
to see him, so why can’t you bring him?
September is a fine month and a ride is the thing for him. I’m pleased to
hear that he mentions my name. Hope that means my memory will be kept
alive. My trunk is not yet arrived but I am in hourly expectation of it. I’ve
not a doubt of you can either with regard to that or any thing else nor need
you be under any apprehension of my disapprobation when you act your
own judgment. I have had too many proofs of the suppression of it to my
own for any thing of that sort to happen. And I’ve almost implicit faith in
it. It was my intention to have bespoke the dressing glass but a multitude of
those prevented it and I wish there may not be many other things for God.
By looking over my memorandum you will know what is wanted and if
anything necessary is omitted be kind enough to jot it down. Must I not have
a toilette for my bedchamber and what form do you advise to? If as large
as Mrs. Gould’s must the top be run and cotton’d -- or have they invented
something new to save that expense of time -- believe it will be necessary to
74
add another pair brass candlesticks or do you think two is enough.
Stop. I believe it will be for doubtless my gentleman has some in his house.
This is truly a troublesome affair and I sincerely wish on your account as
well as my own that it was completed. I hope never to pass through such
a scene again and ardently wish to be settled -- not that I promised myself
uninterrupted felicity than know this state does not admit of that and we
rather increase than diminish our case by forming a certain connection. I find
myself almost absorbed by the world. Its pleasures divest, its cares perplex
and I’m almost ready to say I shall fall a sacrifice into the hands of this enemy.
Gladly would I turn my thoughts and fix them upon superior objects, but my
groveling heart will not consent and my earthly mind forbids an employment
so heavenly. Happy, thrice happy souls that are dismissed from Earth that
have nothing to interrupt their rapturous contemplations or unfit them for the
delightful service in which they use engaged even that of praising and adoring
their divine Redeemer -- that you and yours may join this glorious and happy
society is the sincere wish of your much obligated A Chesebrough
PS my compliments to Mrs. D. I’m prevented writing to her as designed but
shall do it soon.
Newport, July 2
Book: 2
Number: 110
Date: 7/15/1761
To: Mary and Thomas Dering
From: Margaret
Chesebrough
Place: Newport
Newport July 15
Dear Brother and Sister
I have only a few minutes to write just to let you know that I am well and
that I desired to answer your letters by the first private hand. I am just going
to address in order to attend the funeral of poor Natty Holton. Poor Mrs.
Holton I really pity her. I hope her affluence may work out for her of far
more [-] weight of glory. I think she bears up wonderfully. I hope nothing
will happen to prevent your coming to Newport this fall but dare not please
myself too much at last chance myself often when permission myself that
pleases to give my love to Cousin Abby Smith and tell her I expect her
mother and sister very soon and the doctor. I cannot call him her father. I
have 1000 things to say but must forbear. I hope for an opportunity when I
shall unbossom myself to you for really I am grateful running over. I rejoice
to hear the child can walk again. I think she has at many fine and good things
as if she was to end -- a fortune but that would be treason for me to speak
both with Mr. and wife. Adieu my dear friend make the best of heaven’s
blessings attend you ... Your affectionate
Cousin Betsy Smith is just come but her mama is not how she will be treated.
I know not but hope directly.
Book: 2
Number: 114
Date: 7/15/1761
To: Thomas Dering
From: Abigail Grant
Place: Newport
Dear Sir
The continuance of our correspondence is not more necessary then it is
pleasing to me - and though incapable of carrying it on as I could wish
cannot think of dropping it indeed every week furnishes me with matter for
an epistle and till this troublesome affair is completed you must not expect an
easy happy life- I’m much pleased with your purchase and doubt not every
article will suit. It must be a want of taste that occasion it to be otherwise
75
and I call into question the judgment of any that diferentiated from yourself
not accepted us to a case of knives and forks. I think it best to wait for it is
my opinion they will not be wanted very soon. Not but I think it best to be in
readiness and care not how soon you are freed from business so perplexing.
In mine to Mrs. D. I desired your choice of a piece of sheeting must now
ask it for their commitment. (viz) blankets two air shall be sufficient which
I beg you would put up with those things that are to go to Halfax. A
thousand thanks to you for your care immediately forwarding a late epistle
that gentleman is not a stranger to your goodness and will I hope have the
pleasure of owning his obligations in person when you make your visitmethinks atoilet will be necessary as I’ve only a Bureau for my best chamber.
If therefore a peeling top and fall will not be too expensive shall prefer it-but
would have the table of a moderate size- be good enough to let me know the
difference in the cost of a worsted and a leather chair.
I expect to [-] furniture than is best spoke and have a great inclination
either for crimson or yellow ruffles. What think you of one of these, or do
you prefer check. Has Mr. Green disposed of his boy and can you really
recommend him to a friend.
Much of our happiness depends upon our domestics and they have it in
their power to render us very uneasy - the thought of a bad one make me
shudder - - nor would I refuse a good one for the trifling consideration of a
few pounds. Mrs. C tells me the dear boy has found his feet. Having granted
him perfect health and make him unto you a crown of rejoicing - We are in
hourly expectation of seeing Dr. Mason and lady- Me think it would be just
the thing for Mrs. D and you to meet them here -- Is there absolute necessity
of staying till September? If not pray come in August - Deliver this message
with my compliments to the lady of your affection and believe me to be with
sincere regard yours Nabby -PS according to custom something is omitted and that is a complete tea set I
thought have got it here, but believe they are as cheap with you I think not to
go higher than blue and white Newport July 15
I break the seal to tell you Miss Betsy Smith arrived here last evening and
how shall I say the worthy Mr. Heatley is no more. He left us last night and I
hope is happy I can say no more for I am much shocked.
Book: 2
Number: 111
Date: 7/31/1761
To: Thomas Dering
From: Samuel Griffith
Place: Portsmouth
76
Portsmouth 31 July 1761
Mr. T Dering
Since I am now to appoint you that had I thought I should not have been
in Boston till this time I would have wrote to you to have known what you
would have allowed me for a Bill of exchange which I provided some time
ago on purpose to have paid to you -- but I propose to be in Boston shortly
myself. Probably within a fortnight. If you should want the Bill before I can
go myself should be glad you’d inform me what you allow I under stand that
they fetch 10% for one that is what they fetch quick with us. I am your most
humble servant Sam Griffith
PS the reason of my not being in Boston be for this in my being deeply
engaged in Bath jailhouse which was nor....
Book: 2
Number: 112
Date: 8/11/1761
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Adams
Place: New London
New London August 11, 1761
Dear Sir
In your last you gave me a melancholy account of the [d-d] and dangerous
situation and circumstances of your only son. I have not had any particular
tidings since, though I have carefully inquired of everyone lightly to give me
any information. I trust and hope God has mercifully spared him to you and
restored and confirmed his and your health. Thus the goodness of God I
enjoy as comfortable measure of health at present as I generally do or may
even expect. It is a time of general health here and roundabout. The so long
continued drought has changed the face of the earth. The earth [--] and
her fruit wither or are dried up. From more than two months past we have
had scarce much rain or there sometimes falls in two hours. The crops of
Indian corn (the support and stay already of this part of the country) are
like to come exceeding short and whereby great numbers of the poor and
the sort will probably be reduced to great difficulty and defeat. I hope you
have not laid aside your design of a visit to this part of the country and the
Island. If you have not you will give me suitable notice that I may not be out
of the way. If you have any quantity of [-] Linear by you I shall take it as a
favor if you will send me a piece by one of the first coaches. That is coming
within the price between 20 and 25 pounds old tender and I shall take care to
satisfy you as soon as I [-] can procure the hard money would present is very
reasonable is and indeed -- so is any other. If you can’t supply me advise me
soon that I may look out elsewhere. My neighbor Mr. Tim Green I suppose
will be at Boston when this comes by whom you may have opportunity of
writing. My best regards to Mrs. Dering, Miss Hepzi, Mr. Harry, and to all
that may inquire after me. I am [-] your obliged faithful servant William
Adams
Book: 2
Number: 113
Date: 9/3/1761
To: Thomas Dering
From: Margaret
Chesebrough
Place: Newport
Newport September 3
Dear Brother and Sister
I cannot look on you as two so shall write you as one. I was disappointed
in not hear from you by post. I am sometimes a obliged to ask Mrs. Grant
how you all do. I wish the pride of my heart may be brought down by
the mortifying things I am meeting with in life for really there are many. I
sometimes am made to think you are like the rest of this world worship the
rising sun. But no more of this. I shall endeavor to let you know as much as I
dare commit to writing how affairs go on.
I suppose Miss Hepzi has told to you. It is much talk on here a great many ill
natured things, sad I think when people lay theirselves open in such a manner
they cannot expect to escape. I don’t suppose that I hear the one half that is
said. I have not been, but when it came out. We are setting up for visit in as a
grand manner as we can dressed in the wedding gear. We have not had many
visitors yet. I believe they will consist of the younger sort. I fancy the graver
sort will not countenance the method that has been taken. It is said by some
a very bad precedent. By others this is your last some one thing and some
another. The lady tells her father that she thought he steared [-] clear of [-].
77
I cannot help dropping a word now and then as it will bear to undeceived
them. Miss says she does not care a pardon.
She is this evening at a play. I suppose you have heard that we have a
playhouse [-] and in contempt of authority: poor authority you will say for
my part I think it is a malicious for such diversions. When we have been
visited with so severe a incident the drought has been very severe here and
in Connecticut and Long Island and all most all over the land -- I think that
every [-] person ought to bear their public testimony [-] it. I suppose that
I am laughed at and ridiculed for my narrowness but that I do not regard
much. You wrote me word that you sent my mix by Mr. __ but I cannot hear
nothing further of them, which I am sorry for as I was first to waive a tear
of duty one’s last [-] I have not yet had my wedding gown and don’t know
when I shall. I received the bottle of [-] for which I am obliged to you. In my
last which was by post which I hope you have received, I desired you would
be so good as to get me a suit of sheer muslin and something to wear over
my shoulder. What you shall think proper. Please to send the cost in a note.
I hope you will be kind enough to bring it yourselves. Pray let me hear from
you as soon as possible and whether you desire for Newport this fall or not. I
assure you we make a brilliant appearance. The carpet is spread in the best
parlor. Such a one as I never expect to be mistress of in this world.
When people have other people fortunes to go to they may cut a splash but
no more of this now for Halifax they talk of going in about three weeks
or month. We are late to part with three out of our family: Miss G, Miss
Molly and Mr. Portsmouth. I don’t know but I shall want another. If the
black should go which he is fond of. I suppose it will be said to me in some
measure. I know we shall miss him in many things but at the same time I
have a miss man [--] speeches. I have many things to say but my paper is
full and I have no more. This I desire by our neighbor. Heavens I am your
affectionate sister Margaret Chesebrough. I am grieved for cousin. I wish it
may have a etc.
• Margaret had just provided her stepdaughter Abigail with a proper wedding at her father’s home in Newport. Mary and
Thomas attended the wedding ceremony. Abigail and her husband, Alexander Grant, would soon depart for Halifax.
Book: 2
Number: 115
Date: 9/3/1761
To: Thomas Dering
From: Abigail Grant
Place: Newport
78
Dear Sir
I cannot doubt your excusing my silence last week as you are now fully
acquainted with an affair which I hope will not lessen me in your esteem
that my acquaintance our surprise is no marvel for indeed I am so myself.
However it a trick of youth and they must pardon it. Popularity is the thing
with some, were it so with me I should be happy.--- For you may believe that
my name sounds-I find my young acquaintance pleased with the plan but
not so with the more experienced-the-they think it ill judged and not that I’d
no right to dispose of myself without the consent of the town--but I must
beg leave to differ from them--and wish them a more generous thought-Newport is becomes a seat of politeness and Mrs. G is accomplishing herself
to Halifax -- Dressing and company takes up the day and the theater affords
her entertainment for the evening -- Will not this genteel way of killing time
hurry your visit and give us pleasure sooner than you intended --
Letter #97, from Abigail Chesebrough in Newport to Thomas Dering on January 1, 1761
79
Upon my word I think it worth coming for - it vastly exceeded my
expectations and equaled that of those that have been at the theater in
London. The fair penitent was acted and the charming ‘tho unhappy Calista
came of with applause. I found myself in some danger from the bewitching
but faults Lothario -- and had not Alexander been present I cannot answer
for the consequences you will think me fit for the stage if I run on in this
strain therefore shall drop it and talk of business-- The brasses of furniture
I shall choose to have descent therefore hope you have ordered the latches
taken of--my gentleman thinks it not worthwhile to be at further expense
therefore shall only make the addition of window curtains which I must beg
you to get for my parlor--blue and white is my taste since we determine not to
be showy at least for a time- And a couple will be sufficient there being only
two windows in the room.
Hope might my toilet will be ready and indeed everything else in a month
from this time for it will not do to delay at the [-] of the year. Let me beg
you to expedite your journey that the few days I have to spend at Newport
may be as happy as is possible to make them - Be kind enough to put your
gloves for yourself, Mrs. D, Miss Hepzi and Mr. Harry and present them with
proper compliments --As to care you must come for it and that soon for I
have but a fortnight - -Is high time to dress for company therefore can only
say I’m impatient to see you and hope you’ll soon gratify your much obliged
Nabby Grant
September 3
If I time proper shall have a line pardon the inclination lots and incoherence
of this epistle--will it not be proper to wash my checked curtains before their
put up if so let it be done with you for I expect to have my hands full upon
my first setting out for housekeeping. Mrs. D really entitled to a line at least
but since I cannot find time for it therefore it must pardon it
Mr. Grant presents his compliments and begs the favor of Mr. Dering to
procure and send by first private hand or by the post a pair of handsome
stone or paste buckles for a lady and for that purpose send by Mr. Gordon
£3.12 and if not sufficient he will make up the difference at meeting with
thanks.
Book: 2
Number: 116
Date: 9/4/1761
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Adams
Place: New London
80
New London September 4, 1761
Dear Sir
Yours of the third received by Mr. Green came safe to hand. I rejoice to
hear that little master is in so hopeful a way of recovery; may his health be
confirmed! May he grow up and increase in favor with God and man! I am
not a little pleased that you have not laid aside the thoughts of making a trip
into these parts and shall take the greatest satisfaction in waiting upon you
here and at the island. I sometimes question whether I shall be able to join
you at Newport as you propose; I hope, however, Mr. Chesebrough and his
lady will need no persuasion to accompany you in your desired tours. I write
this by my kinsman, I. Gardiner, and hope you will favor me with a line upon
his return, with some particular account of your determination in regard
of your intended journey and as far as is practicable for me, I shall gladly
embrace and comply with any proposal that concerns me. I wrote you, if I
remember, by Mr. Winthrop some little time before your last came to hand; I
should be glad of an answer to the contents of that. With my best wishes to
Mrs. Dering, Miss Hepzi, Mr. Harry, and your lovely babes I subscribe your
obliged friend and very humble servant William Adams
Book: 2
Number: 119
Date: 10/4/1761
To: Thomas Dering
From: Margaret
Chesebrough
Place: Newport
Newport October 4
Dear brother and sister
I received yours by Mr. Smith. I have not received the letter that you
mentioned by Mr. [-] yet. I am glad you got home Saturday night and found
all so well. I was greatly concerned about you. I feared that you was obliged
to spend the Sabbath on the road or be wet. I don’t know that ever I was so
concerned about you. When you left me the weather was so unpromising I
should have been more so had I had leisure to think but really I am so full of
company that I have hardly time to think of anything but what we shall eat
and what we shall drink.
Some of our company is gone to the play and others that is setting around
me talking of our brother Thomas that is gone high in [-] on him. You would
laugh to hear what I am hearing at this minute, how brother could not bear
a book in his house because it had some smutty thing in it. Do they think
everybody are fools? This conversation has been for half an hour. Mr. G is
present and joins in the conversation. I am all most sick of it. Mrs. G is gone
to the religious society this evening. I do not understand their inconsistencies.
I love to see people live uniformly but I desire to look at how and see to it
that I live answerable to the profession I have made.
But of myself I cannot do that. I desire to beg assistance and strength. I
will know left to myself I shall fall into all manner of [-] this I desire by Mr.
Hutchinson and sister who has spent a few days with us. I could not take that
satisfaction in them as I could have done at another time. I am concerned
that I could not lodge Mr. Smith. I hear that cousin [--] and brother departs
for Newport soon. What shall I do that I shall not be able to entertain and
that I should be [-].
• The following letter may be a part of Thomas’s and Henry’s effort to close down their father’s business. The British effort
to force the colonies in America to pay for the French and Indian War was affecting the economics of the colonies, making it
very difficult for merchants such as the Derings to do business.
Book: 2
Number: 118
Date: 10/25/1761
To: Henry Dering
From: Thomas Dering
Place: Boston
Boston 25 October 1761
Mr. Henry Dering
Pay in four months from the date with lawful interest until paid to Charlton
Palmer Esq. of London his attorney or assign £141Sterling being the
amount of his bill as solicitor in the case between Thomas Dering appellate
and Thomas Packer respondent before the King in Council and charge the
same to your brother Thomas Dering
Accepted to pay October 26, 1762
81
Henry Dering
Boston April 6, 1763
Received Mr. Henry Dering 202 pounds six shillings and sixpence lawful
money and being on account of Mr. Thomas Dering in full of the within
note for my father. Thomas Hutchinson January 27
Thomas Dering Esq. order on Henry Dering 25th of October 1762 in favor
Charlton Palmer paid by said Henry to Thomas Hutchinson signed April 6,
1763 am to £202.6.6
Book: 2
Number: 117
Date: 10/26/1761
To: Thomas Dering
From: Samuel Hughes
Place: Boston
Book: 2
Number: 120
Date: 10/26/1761
To: Thomas Dering
From: Thomas Wentworth
Place: Portsmouth
Book: 2
82
Boston 26th of October 1761
It is with the greatest pleasure that we received Mr. Dering’s billet;
accompanied with so useful piece of household furniture; which has been
already applied to the carpets to very good effect. The box of shells has not
wanted inspections of many admirers and if the season would admit of it; a
visit to the place that produced them what afford still greater entertainment,
but we must deprive ourselves of that pleasure until the blooming month.
You have so judiciously pointed out the doll for Ms. Betsy being approved
of by our daughter Nancy, we shall not enlarge upon it, but a small pot of
tamarines that the accompany it we desire may meet with your friendly
acceptance and as WSM has found great benefit and comfort by making use
of the said Tamarines and often substitutes them in lieu of lemons (which
are now as scarce here as supposed to be with you) he strongly recommends
his recipe for preparing them, viz, to make good Tamarines punch put a
large spoonful into any convenient vessel on which pour some boiling water,
with a spoon reduce them into a pulp then pour them into a final bag or
rather a [-] cut flying jib fashion, and strain ye through the most acute
angle, mix them with water, sugar, and some spirit secundem artem and they
will answer extremely well when lemons are not to be had – – We shall not
enlarge more than to say that we shall deem it a great happiness to see you in
Boston and that Mrs. Hughes Secretary, by her express order sends you her
love and esteem and ever remains with her, dear sir and madam your most
humble servant, Sir, Samuel Hughes
Portsmouth October 26, 1761
Dear Sir
I have the pleasure receiving your favor enclosed to Mr. Theo Atkinson and
now send you Mr. Andrews 1 yard book Muslin which with my respects
you’ll pleased to present Mrs. Dering begging her acceptance.-- I am much
obliged to you for desire seeing me in Boston. Can’t say when shall do myself
the pleasure being there, as I hear Mr. Packer is ill yet and don’t propose
making my appearance till settle the affair which I though would have been
before this but Providence has interposed and we must submit. Pray my
compliments to Miss Small and your brother, which will oblige your sincere
friend Thomas Wentworth
PS pray excuse haste TW
If ye have any spare time do let me hear from you.
Number: 121
Date: 10/30/1761
To: Thomas Dering
From: Robert Furness
Place: Barwick
Barwick
Ye 30th of October 1761
Sirs
I received your book yesterday being ye 29th of this instant and ye only
time since I see you in Boston so I have done according to your desire I have
drawn a copy of ye sundry March DS, thought imperfect I had of you and
will send by ye first opportunity. But hope to see you myself in a month or
six weeks at ye [-] if God willing. All ye talk I find ye prices of ye goods is
very dear, and a mistake in ye buttons I had but five bags and three of them
was half out, which I told you when I had them as ye account I never cash up
to see whether it was right – cash not to. I expect before long you will receive
500 pound old tenor by a certain gentlemen that has engaged me to pay ye
same to you in a very short time. I should made you some pay before this but
it has been so dry that ye Mills could not go for want of water and good as
goes a very slow I have not sold 20 pound lawful money worth of them yet
because ye are dear and ye [-] of ye times, Sir, when you receive ye above 500
pound please to let me know that I need not call when I come to Boston.
Sir
When I come to Boston I will bring of same bill of parcels you gave me if
that will do better. When your fall goods comes let me know and I will come
if it is sooner than I expect to come hoping you will let me have some at a
reasonable rate to make up for others I had of you. Sir, this in haste from
your humble servant Robert Furness
Book: 2
Number: 122
Date: 1/14/1762
To: Thomas Dering
From: Samuel Griffith
Place: Portsmouth
Book: 2
Number: 123
Date: 3/8/1762
To: Thomas Dering
From: Alexander Grant
Place: Halifax
Portsmouth January 14, 1762
Messers Thomas and Henry Dering
This serves to acquaint you that I have received yours of six December and
I am now to inform you that at present is not in my power to discharge the
balance due to you dollar bills of exchange not been at present to be had for
our old tenor. As soon as I can procure wherewith to satisfy you may depend
on my doing it with pleasure
Your humble servant Sam Griffith
Halifax March 8, 1762
Dear Sir
Mrs. Grant’s indisposition and long confinement has for many weeks past
engrossed almost all my time and attention, otherwise I should have sooner
acknowledged the receipt of your last favor. She is now very well again and
it will give us great pleasure to be informed of your dear little boy and girl’s
recovery, who we were sorry to find were both unwell at the date of Mrs.
Dering’s last letter to Mrs. Grant. I esteem myself much indebted to you for
your friendship and civility on all occasions, especially when we were last at
Boston of which I retain a very grateful sense and shall be fond of embracing
an opportunity of Retaliation, whenever such a one presents – – this speech
I know I ought to have made some months ago, but they say better late
than never– – English cheese I remember was a scarce article when I was at
Boston and as that may still be the case, I beg your acceptance of a small
box with one Cheshire and two of the Gloucestershire make, the latter I
83
hope will suit Mrs. Dering’s taste. I wish I could think of something that this
place affords more worthy of your acceptance – – Mrs. Grant has wrote
by this vessel to Mrs. Dering and Miss Hepzi to whom I pray to be kindly
remembered -- wishing health and happiness to you and yours, I remain
sincerely, dear Sir, your obliged and most humble servant Alexander Grant
IN THOMAS DERING’S HAND, HIS RESPONSE.
Dear Sir,
Received your kind favor of the eighth instance I received with the box of
cheeses, which came safe and was very good. Mrs. Dering with me return
our hearty thanks. It came in excellent season being near out of that article. I
rejoice with you in Mrs. Grant’s recovery, am sorry for the loss you have met
with, but hope very soon be made up again as you have the like materials to
work with. If you ever received any civility from me am sure they were fully
answered and in the pleasure of your good company and shall always be glad
of the like opportunity. Think can answer for the sincerity of my friendship.
Mrs. Dering informs me Lady [-] desires to know if Mr. Copley has finished
the picture you left with him. I have seen him this day. He tells me it is ready
to be set he has inquired what the expense will be that to be set neat and
paying it will cost four guineas beside the gold. I shall inquire myself and
what can get it done for if you desire. Pray remember kindly to Mrs. Grant
and likewise sure am to be your sincere friend and humble servant and at
command.
Book: 2
Number: 126
Date: 3/11/1762
To: Thomas Dering
From: Theodore Atkinson
Place: Portsmouth
Book: 2
Number: 124
Date: 3/15/1762
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Adams
Place: Providence
84
Portsmouth NH March 11, 1762
Not legible
Providence March 15, 1762
Dear Sir
A regular line just to inform you of my journey hither -- after taking leave of
my mother I proceeded to Roxbury where I dined with Capt. Williams made
a short halt at Mr. Walters, stopt a little at the Widow Gauge at Dedham
to refresh my horse then jogging onward arrived at Deacon Robbins in the
depth of the evening somewhat fatigued and considerably chilled with the
cold Southern breeze – – but by means of a good fire warm supper and a
comfortable nights sleep I found myself so much [-] that I set forward on
my journey by sunrise and reached Brewster at Wrantham by breakfast
time and having regaled myself with a dish of tea and toast I proceeded
to Attleboro where I was most hospitably received by the Rev. Mr. Wald
and agreeably entertained at dinner with the company of his spouse and
a number of young ladies his daughters. After dinner I sent out and by
the good hands of heaven was broght safe to my lodgings between two
and three in the afternoon where I found all well. I was met with no great
difficulty in regards to the roads though in some places I road upon the top
of snow banks perhaps five or six feet from the ground where you may safely
imagine I could make but slow and careful progress; but the bigger half of
the way I had a well-beaten pleasant snow path to travel in. I can’t conclude
without making my acknowledgments for all your kindnesses and the most
friendly acception from you and yours -- would God it were in my power
ever to make a suitable retaliation! You will remember me in the most tender
manner to Mrs. Dering Miss Hepzi Mr. Henry and the dear little ones with
proper complements to all inquiring friends, I am your obliged friend and
servant William Adams
Book: 2
Number: 125
Date: 3/19/1762
To: Thomas Dering
From: Theodore Atkinson
Place: Portsmouth
Book: 2
Number: 127
Date: 3/26/1762
To: Thomas Dering
From: Theodore Atkinson
Place: Portsmouth
Portsmouth March 19, 1762
Sir
Since the receipt of yours I have conversed with Mr. Packer on its contents
who is now furnished with bills of exchange and silver or gold to pay of his
judgment and to prevent any mistake in the payments either for weight or
other ways. He is determined to send his son to Boston in a few days who’ll
carry the execution with him for your discharge Thereon which I think is
the most regular way when this is satisfied you of course must discharge
the mortgage and if you are not within the reach of the record you must
make a deed of discharge which claim to his [-] mortgaged which will put a
final period to any lawsuit on your demand with much respects, I am with
our compliments yours sincerely in haste your obedient kinsman and very
humble servant Theodore Atkinson
Portsmouth March 26, 1762
I now enclose you an execution on the judgment you obtained against Mr.
Packer whose son now waits on you in order to see the [-] properly discharged
which when he pays the money you need only endorse it that you have
received the sum of £50.8.6 and have being in full satisfaction and discharge
of the within execution then sign as executor [-]
You’ll observe therein no cash mentioned as allowed for the charges of lawsuit
on order from England that Mr. Packer paid down in court so there was none
taxed I suppose your [-] attorney advised you thereof. I hope you now have
in sight an end to this long subsisting dispute which concludes me with respect
to Mrs. Dering, yourself, your obedient kinsman and very humble servant
Theodore Atkinson
Book: 2
Number: 128
Date: 4/6/1762
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Adams
Place: Providence
Providence April 6, 1762
Dear Sir
Soon after my return hither from Boston I wrote you by a foot traveler
(one Otis) something of a circumstantial account of my journey, which I
thought you have received. I expect now to return to New London by the
permission of heaven, the week after next. I am greatly solicited by the
people here to tarry the summer and my inclinations would lead me to it
if my circumstances otherwise would permit it. I have a letter by the post
from my brother with a pleasing account of his and the family’s welfare.
My brother writes me he is in great want of garden seed particularly lettuce
cabbage radish if you have any of these articles to spare or could procure
me a little from your friends you would greatly obliged me-or if any of the
seed mongers in town might be depended upon you would buy me little, I
85
should both acknowledge the favor and take care to repay you. The bearer
of this one Mr. William Rafael as I understand returns soon hither and will
probably, though I am unacquainted with him, take the charge of a letter or
any smaller bundle you may have to send me. Tis a strange way of repaying
favors and obligations (I must confess) by asking more, but yet tis the way of
the world. I have not been very well ever since I left you though at present
something more comfortable. I shall always be glad to hear of you and your
family’s welfare; with my compliments to Mrs. Dering Miss Hepzi Mr. Henry
and to all inquiring friends I take leave and am your obliged friend and
servant William Adams
Pray Miss Hepzi to give your dear babies some close embraces and rapturous
kisses and place them to account of your humble servant
• Mary Dering and her sister Margaret have together inherited Sylvester Manor. The house had been vacant and the fields
farmed by a tenant farmer for a decade. Thomas Dering and David Chesebrough were now joint owners, and it seems that
Thomas had now announced that he intended to move his family there. This was not to Mr. Chesebrough’s liking.
Book: 2
Number: 129
Date: 4/6/1762
To: Thomas Dering
From: Margaret
Chesebrough
Place: Newport
Newport April 6
Dear Brother
I received yours by Mr. Gothnite. Lucky for me I happened to be in the
kitchen. Nancy went to the door took the letter and came to me gave me that
was directed to me though the other was for her. I broke it open but soon
discovered her mistake and gave to me: I reproved her sharply. I believe she
did not read one word but the two first as soon as I read them committed
them to the flames: I cannot say but I had seen your letter that you wrote
Mr. C. As soon as he read it he flung it to me with these words, the man is
distracted a wit [-] I asked what disadvantage it could be. He said he should
never have his sent and the place would be [-] and it never should be while
he lived. I intimated what Mr. Hutchinson had told him some time ago. I
ought to know what that was. He told me that you must sell your part. I must
own that shocked me for I believe I never can consent to that for the sake of
those that is gone and for the sake of your dear babes. I have really a difficult
part to act or rather I must not act at all nor or speak a word about it -Me, I could very warm he said he had strove to have the [-] settled but could
not have it done not that he expected an advantage by it but for mine. That
I might be treated with respect and give it to whom I please. I believe he
desires to have that matter settled if he can. I don’t intend to do anything
in that affair. Let me suffer never so much. It now was not my taking. and
I really believe what has been done will be of no avail if you don’t choose
it--now I must write you my fears not that I am against your having the farm
for had I the whole world and your family was not happy it would not yield
any satisfaction except I could make them comfortable. But dear brother I
must tell you that accept a farm is not managed to advantage it is rather a
moth than otherwise. You must be sure about that it will take a great deal
to purchase servants and stock. Help is not to be hired on any account. I
heard Mr. Gannon here lately. Capt. Hubbard’s bond is to Mr. Wiggins and
Henry Havens. Pray say nothing of what I write you. No mortal knows of
my writing. What is the meaning of this sudden turn of times. I am distressed
86
for you all. May you be [-] to what may be best,. It is my daily earnest prayer
I know not what to write my dear sister. Let me beg of you not to [-] yourself
on or yours on my account. I am for peace as much as anybody but if it must
depart I hope I shall be supported and carried through. I desire to commit
you and yours to the divine protection I am your thoughtful sister Margaret
Chesebrough
Book: 2
Number: 130
Date: 4/9/1762
To: Thomas Dering
From: Theodore Atkinson
Place: Portsmouth
Sir
Portsmouth April 9, 1762
I need your favor of Mr. Packer and was surprised the execution was not
satisfied as that is inalterably the end of the law. I wrote you before that the
judgment was calculated by Mr. Gould and Mr. Parker and was [-] entered
and had the cost been omitted you would have been without remedy or at
least the remedy worse than was discussed. Now when a judgment from
England is to be recorded in our Court is highly proper to make the cost
allowed in England part of the capital’s judgment and this is so entered as
you will see by the enclosed judgment which I had from Mr. Jeffrey the clerk
and which is exactly right according to the judgment from England as you
will see by that judgment – – my advice is to take the money or you may
not have it in your power to come as its without more [-] then you may be
aware of. My son carries the proper order about the money – – and will [--]
and take up the execution with your seal of satisfaction; however there will
be an end of this long and troublesome affair and I hope a reconciliation of
account. I am in much haste your most obliged kinsman and humble servant
Theodore Atkinson
My respect to Mrs. Dering and the rest of your good family.
If you make a calculation for your own satisfaction to try if right you must
add six months interest that bring the judgment here. I observe Mr. Jeffrey
has not signed and enclosed copy but has his own hand and is the real copy.
Book: 2
Number: 131
Date: 4/12/1762
To: Thomas Dering
From: Theodore Atkinson
Place: Portsmouth
Sir
Portsmouth April 12, 1762
I only received your post and had delivered your execution to Mr. Packer
and am glad [--] that has been so long disputing is at last finished – – I am
much obliged for your kind invitation and contrary to my thoughts have
now some intentions of seeing our friends at Boston once more if I should
continue my resolution proposed to go with the carrier’s next turn. Mrs.
Atkinson is too infirm to think of such a journey. She gratefully acknowledges
your favor in your invitation and would be glad to see you and Mrs. Dering
here which two persons of your ages and health would be a pleasant tour
but this will settle when I come down there to which if Mr. Wentworth don’t
fail from his offer of going with me will be tomorrow week at present as our
family are in health and salute you and Mrs. Dering -- I am Sir your obliged
kinsman and very humble servant Theodore Atkinson
I have ventured to send my ....
Book: 2
87
Providence April 20, 1762
Dear
I this day received yours of 14th [-] with the seeds for which I return sincere
thanks to you and Mr. Wentworth. The letter enclosed I shall forward as soon
as possible upon my return home. I propose to set out on my tour [-] the
next day after tomorrow, with the permission of heaven. The people here to
whom I have been ministering part with me with a reluctance, I doubt not
[-] from the testimonies of affection and respect that I have received while
among them. I leave this for conveyance with Mr. James Green as also 10
or $12 for the piece of cloth you sent me in the fall. I have forgot the cost of
it. [-] the money fall short I will soon make up. If you have any Irish linen
by you that is good and will send me a piece by one of your Connecticut [-]
I will talk about [-] say when we meet at Shelter Island. It must not exceed
40 nor be under 30 pound price – – my head is so filled with thoughts of my
journey and Parliamentary as it is called here, (tomorrow is the day for the
Freemans choosing of governor and other officers throughout this colony)
that I can neither sense nor anything else--With my best regards to Mrs.
Dering, Miss Hepzi, Mr. Henry and proper compliments to all inquiring
friends I am your obliged friend and servant William Adams
• On April 21, 1762, Mary Dering delivered a little girl, whom they also called Elizabeth Dering and who would live to
maturity.
Number: 133
Date: 4/20/1762
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Adams
Place: Providence
Book: 2
Number: 136
Date: 4/21/1762
To: Thomas and Henry Dering
From: Lane & Booth
Place: London
Messrs. Thomas and Henry Dering, P Jackson London 21st April 1762
Gentlemen-We confirm the preceding copy of our last invoice which Capt. Alex
Malcolm has advised us of his preceding with his cargo to Bremen and
accordingly we have made £100 insurance on your interest they are in from
Cowes to Bremen and debit you for the premium with part 2/. £6.8 D
insurers care to return £1p6 for convoy to the Downs or £2p6 for convoy to
Bremen or Hamburg. Capt. Malcolm writes us he shall remit the produce of
your rice when sold and also order us to pay to your credit a small balance he
judges will remain due to him in our hand, paying his own insurance which
we shall advise you In the interim we remain
Copy
Gentlemen
We are now at 10 July confirmed the preceding copy of our last since which
Capt. Malcolm has sailed from Europe and we hope this will find him safe
arrived at your port.
According to his desire we have given you credit £48.19.6 for balance of his
account and £61.14 for your interest in the bill he remitted us on Robert
Wilson x6. He left some money in the hands of Mr. Rose of cows ye which
with ye produce of a pipe of Madeira wine he is ordered to be remitted
us for your accounting when the same reaches our hands you shall be duly
advised the sum we pay to your credit.
After your long silence we have a letter from you of ye 22 February. The
88
89
Sources: Mills Family Group Sheet, Ancestry.com (visited
9/1/2014): Michael J. Boonstra, “Descendants of ‘King’
David Chesebrough of Newport, Rhode Island,” New
England Historical and Genealogical Register, Vol. 156, pp.
223, 233-234, 236 (July 2002); pp. 373, 387-388 (October
2002); Vol. 157, pp. 58, 61-63, 68, 71 (January 2003).
Note: Shaded icons indicate authors of letters in the Dering
Letters, Shelter Island Historical Society (2014).
unexpected contents thereof have not a little shocked us, as you say it is
at this time, utterly out of your power to remit us in bills of your country
produce. Had we known your resolution when you first wrote to us for goods
that we only were to bear the loss of your miscarriages in trade we should not
on any account have engaged with you but as it is now too late to look back
we must depend on your acting by us the part of honest men and to ease
our mind in some measure by using our endeavors to make the best of a bad
bargain.
We see that your partnership and trade is dissolved and the resolution you
have both separately taken as to the measures you are to pursue in future
in order to pay your debts and to make provisions for the support of your
families and in reply are sorry to say that the farm proposed to be improved
by Mr. Thomas Dering or the business with the shopkeeping way that Mr.
Henry Deering is going to enter upon afford very little prospect of enabling
either of you to discharge so large a debt as ours is standing out against
you in any reasonable time. We therefore desire you will transmit us on
the receipt of this a particular account of all the debts that are due to your
partnership, at the time you have or may dissolve the same, and that you
would be very particular as to the dates when you delivered the goods to the
persons who may be indebted to you as also that you would remark to us the
state of your said debts, we mean, which are good which are doubtful which
are bad as our dealings have not been long together we flatter ourselves there
cannot be many of the latter if the money is owing you for goods sent from
our house. Please also to send us an account of the goods you have remaining
on hand and what ever other effects there is belonging to your partnership
account. We must also desire you to transmit us an account of your separate
effects and if both or either of you are possessed of any houses, lands etc. in
your own right or settle on you by way of annuity for life.
When you have complied with the sending us the above information of your
effects we shall on ye receipt their of come to a resolution what ...
Book: 2
Number: 137
Date: 4/21/1762
To: Thomas and Henry Dering
From: Lane & Booth
Place: London
Book: 2
90
Continued in Book 2, #137
...what to do in respect of our engagements with you. In the interim
we desire you would for your own sakes as well as ours, live in as frugal
manner as you can, and as you can collect your outstanding debts, make us
remittance by every opportunity, keeping your credit up with your neighbors;
which shall not be hurt by your having communicated to us the present
deficiency you apprehend will be found to answer your engagements; and
you may be further assured by this that whatever resolution we may come to
by your laying the state of your affairs before us as desired, if they have the
appearance of honesty in your late transactions we shall not take one that
shall oblige you to any confinement on our account, but both your persons
shall be safe at all events. We are gentlemen your most humble servants,
Lane and Booth
Number: 134
Date: 6/1/1762
To: Thomas Dering
From: Thomas Wentworth
Place: Portsmouth
Book: 2
Number: 139
Date: 6/16/1762
To: Thomas Dering
From: John Wentworth
Place: Portsmouth
Dear Sir
Portsmouth June 1, 1762
I am favored with yours of Stavers and am (as always shall be) obliged much
for the trouble you have taken about the papers for my house. The No. I
want is 2708 of which pleased to send me three rolls with the post and will
send it you {-} also the amount of the bill parcels of Sunday {-}of you
when in Boston you’ll pleased to excuse the freedom I take troubling you and
if ever in my power to make any retaliation will with pleasure do it and you
may freely command me. Mrs. Wentworth joins with me in our best respects
to you and Lady. Compliments to Mr. Henry Dering and Miss Small, I am
truly your most obliged [-] Thomas Wentworth
Portsmouth June 16, 1762
Most obliging Sir
I am favored with your kind letter to my sister. I do assure you a visit to
Boston would give me the greatest satisfaction was it in my power, and hope
it will be before you leave it, for whose sake and a few others (all your own
family) I alone could be pleased to leave by now my Newbury employments
here – – when I reflect on the distances of Shelter Island – – a principle of
self love makes me wish for something to detain you and your good Mrs.
Dering in Boston, though (as you observe) any distance cannot diminish
our friendship. Yet on a second recollection I am inclined to acquiesce. As
a country life ever had many charms for me supposing it to be passed in
innocence and improvement, which will doubtless be your description – –
there are great pleasures in the anticipation of future joys – – for which
reason I frequently indulge myself in thinking of a visit to your island, to see
you happy in a numerous healthy family, and surrounded by fields, whose
bounteous crops may smile and approbation to your husbandry and whose
lowing herds shall bless the kind hand that protects and feeds them. I shall
ever be obliged by the continuation of a correspondence with you, whether
from Boston or Shelter Island – –which I wish may not be interrupted by
any absence after my return from England – – where I proposed to land in
November before I depart shall acquaint you – – for I do insist on a Memo
from Mrs. Dering. My father, mother, brother and sisters all join in respects
to you and yours, being all under many obligations for [-] civilities – – which
you should in justice give us an opportunity to repay though to repay would
be impossible by adding a great pleasure to us in a visit with Mrs. Dering to
Portsmouth – – in your next, say when you get out, and your [-] stage, where
I will be to attend you here – – in this gratify your sincere and obliged friend,
Wentworth
PS to Mrs. Dering
Good Mdm.
I have the pleasure to acknowledge the favor of a PostScript in Mr. Dering’s
letter, in which you write so kindly of my sister, it gives me the happiness
to presume her behavior at Boston has been agreeable to you and to some
other friends they are, whose approbation of her gives me great pleasure, and
confers the greatest obligation on all her family here. I am also much obliged
91
for your goodness and desiring her future welfare, and most sincerely wish
she was to spend her days in the same town with you. As I am sensible that
she must live here; so that the amount of my wishes are as much for myself
as for her. For believe me, nothing can be more my wish than to be always
near to a family whose [-] and friendly civility have and are continually oblige
me.
Permit me to report to you the request of a visit to Portsmouth which I
on the other side made to Mr. Dering. A few days from Boston cannot be
attended with much inconvenience and who by would create great pleasure
– – the friendly invitation from ye good Mr. Dering added to yours; will
make me impatient to see Shelter Island after your arrival there; in my
absence the first desires of my heart rises for your completest happiness. May
your family increase and daily rejoice you with their health and multiplied
accomplishments. And it may the fertility of your fields fill your every wish –
– my parents brothers and sisters join with me and acknowledgments to you
- and send their respects by means of your most obliged and most obedient
servant
Wentworth
I have a letter ready for Hepzi, which waits for a private hand.
Book: 2
Number: 140
Date: 6/25/1762
To: Thomas Dering
From: Samuel Griffith
Place: Portsmouth
Book: 2
Number: 135
Date: 11/10/1762
To: David Wood, Boston
From: Thomas Dering
Place: Boston
Messrs. Tho and Hy Dering Portsmouth 25th of June 1762
Sir
I received yours and am sensible of what you mention. In answer say I.
Could not get the draft to last week which was contrary to my expectation.
Drawn payable 20 days after sight on Hy Lloyd Esq. When I get it at
my disposal you shall be paid. Till then you must rest satisfied. The
disappointment was hard upon me as I concluded you think that I meant to
impose upon you. I shall take care how I get entangled again while we have
nothing but paper money – – that won’t answer for any debt I owe – – at
present – – I am in hopes I shall be able to deal with you again. That what
you will be gaining then may compensate for the damage you have sustained
in time past – –
I am your most able servant
Sam Griffith
PS On avoidable expense I was at last year has been a great disservice to me
in the way of trade but I think I have pretty near weathered it.
Thomas Dering Esq. to David Wood DR 1762
November 10
To hire of a horse to go to Newport in your chaise one week 1..16
To one weeks detention a full horse more than the time agreed on ..8
To keeping and ferrage of the above horse he being returned on Boston side
the ferry too late to cross the ferry 3..4
£2.7.4
Received the above 2 pounds seven shillings four pence in full of Thomas
92
Dering Esq. by ye hand of his brother Henry Deering Boston November
10, 1762 David Wood
A copy
Notes on back of letter, written by Thomas Dering
Received Boston April 25, 1762 56 pound six shillings and 5/10 lawful
money on account & in part of 466 pounds 13 shillings and four pence lawful
money sold the house now in ye occupation of Samuel Wentworth Esq.
which the aforesaid agreement said Henry Dering belonged to ye estate of
here or our father Henry Dering deceased. £56.6.5
Thomas Dering
A Copy
Boston August 6, 1762 Received of Henry Dering Twenty two pounds fifteen
shilling four pence to be paid to Andrew Oliver Esq.
22.15.4
Boston June 1.1762 Received of Mr. Henry Dering Eighty pounds lawful
money to pay to William Brattle Esq.
Thomas Dering
80 pounds
• Where to place the following letter? Although it was dated April 16, it would have been four to six months before it would
arrive into the hands of Thomas and Henry.
Book: 2
Number: 132
Date: 4/16/1762
To: Thomas and Henry Dering
From: Lane & Booth
Place: London
Messrs. Thomas and Henry Dering [---] London 16th April 1762
Gentlemen-We confirm the preceding copy of our last since which the Snowtigo Captain
Alex Malcolm is arrived at Cowles and from the advice received from him we
find your interest in the cargo is no more than £ 710.13. Carolina currency
we have accordingly obtained a return of premio on £126.5 over insured at
25 Guineas VC being £33.2.9 and have placed the same to your credit as of
particulars here with.
Capt. Malcolm we presume has orders to remit us the interest you have on
board though he is quite silent on that head. We are at an uncertainty about
it, however it is to be hoped he will remit us at least enough to reimburse us
the premium on insurance. We cannot conclude without once more pressing
you to favor us with a line in answer to this and are with best respect ....
Gentlemen we are now at the 21st April and confirm the preceding copy of
our last since which Capt. Alex Malcolm has advised us of his proceeding
with his cargo to Bremen and accordingly we have made £100 insurance on
your interest therein from Cowles to Bremen and debit you for the premium,
with part policy £2 6.8-- the insurers are to return 1£ for convoy to the
Downs or £2 for convoy to Bremen or Hamburg.
93
Capt. Malcolm writes he shall remit us the produce of your rice when sold
and also order us to pass to your credit a small balance he judges will remain
due to him in our hands after paying for his own insurance, which we shall
advise you of in course and in the interim we remain gentlemen your most
humble servant Lane and Booth
Return for short interest on goods shipped in the Argo, Alex Malcolm from
South Carolina account of Messrs. Thomas and Henry Dering
Viz
Amount as of invoice £740.13 -- Carolina currency at $7 for one in Sterling
£105.16
The above covered at 25G PC with 2 pc %
Abatement of % 2 pc commission £148.15
£ 275 assured
148.15 - interest
£126.5 Short at 25G pc
£33.2.9
London 31 March 1762 Errors
Excepted
• The same issue of placement reflects on the next letter. Alexander Grant wrote it to his mother-in-law from Halifax, and
from Newport, it traveled back to Boston to Mary and Thomas Dering.
Book: 2
Number: 138
Date: 6/12/1762
To: Margaret Chesebrough
From: Alexander Grant
Place: Halifax
Halifax 12th June 1762
Dear Mdm.
A mere man of business makes but an awkward figure in an Epistolary
correspondence with the lady, and though I might from time to time convey
my warmest wishes and best respects to you through the channel of my other
self, yet the very polite and even maternal treatment I met with from you,
since my first acquaintance in the family has imprinted a very large share of
esteem and gratitude on my mind, which for want of a better opportunity
of testifying, I think it incumbent on me to declare even in this way, knowing
you have goodness enough to accept of the will for the deed, and to take that
will which is well meant.
I remember to have heard Nabby say that Madeira is your favorite wine. As
Newport seldom furnishes any that’s genuine and good. I have taken the
liberty of putting a hamper aboard of this vessel containing three dozen: it
came to me directly from the place of its growth and is much admired here. I
must beg your acceptance of it, with a hamper of English beer (which is also,
I believe, a rarity at Newport) as a small token of my esteem and gratitude.
Nabby writes to you by this opportunity and to her I beg leave to refer you
for our domestic occurrences in which you are so good as to interest yourself.
I sincerely wish you health and the enjoyment of every good and am with the
most perfect esteem and respect.
Dear Mdm, your obliged and most affectionate son, Alexander Grant
Book: 2
94
Number: 141
Date: 8/2/1762
To: Thomas Dering
From: Martin Howard, Jr.
Place: Newport
Newport 2 August 1762
My good friend
I take the liberty to make you the channel of mine and Mrs. Howard’s good
wishes to my friends at Boston, among whom be assured we think ourselves
happy in placing you and Mrs. Dering therefore with are many words
received the kind wishes and compliments we now send to you both together
with the too little olive branches which David thought was and I hope our
blessings to you. We don’t forget Hepzi and brother Harry. The former may
always command the five shillings sterling I promised her with other matters
and things innumerable – – as to Harry let him remember for his comfort
that if Calvin and Luther were now alive they would be no more than
country curates. The world is more enlightened and philosophical than it was
and good simple and true religion are become the same thing. School divinity
and splitting of points are kicks out of doors and he is the best reason and
the greatest divine that lives as he ought to do – – and so I take my leave of
Mr. Harry.
Pleased to deliver the enclosed and esteem me as your sincere friend and
humble servant
M Howard Junior
• Mr. Adams knew that the Derings were planning to move to Shelter Island. With his long residence on Shelter Island
he was probably the best barometer of the situation for Thomas Dering. Below he reported that the tenant farmer, Mr. G.
Fanning, was reluctant to have the Derings move in until his lease had expired. “Mr. C” was, of course, Mr. Chesebrough.
Book: 2
Number: 142
Date: 8/6/1762
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Adams
Place: New London
New London August 6, 1762
Dear Sir
My neighbor Mr. Timothy Green proposing to set out for Boston on Monday
next - I improve the opportunity to send you a line – – sometimes since I
received a letter from Mr. G Fanning with one included for you which
I took care to forward by the first post after and trust it has come safe to
home. I was not a little surprised and some parts of the contents of his to
me, wherein he expressed an unwillingness that you should remove your
family to the island any time before his lease is expired. I can’t see what great
disadvantage it could be to him supposing you should at least not so great
but that a humane benevolent person, (as I take Mr. Fanning to be) would
readily submit to it, to gratify and oblige a friend. Whether it be from motives
of interest or foreign influence or both I can’t determine. I have indeed [-]
heard from ye Island that Mr. C [-] his consent; this you best know. I have
wrote nothing in reply to Mr. Fanning and know not what is your final result
and determination. I have thoughts however of making a short visit to the
island within a few weeks when probably I may find out the mystery. I hope
you will embrace the first opportunity after this comes to hand to send an
answer to this part of my letter especially. We have had but a melancholy
summer particularly in regard to the severe drought that has been and still
continues upon ye land. Is strange and admirable that any vegetables should
be alive or in any degree flourish considering small supplies of rain we have
had from the opening of the spring till this day; probably not so much in all
put together as is frequent in [-] seasons in one storm of rain. Indian loss
95
till within a week or two grass has made a promising appearance but now
suffers greatly and except the Father of the Rain soon mercifully interpose
and unstop and battles of heavens must come vastly short. I don’t remember
we have anything remarkable; but what you have in the public news – – I am
as well there the goodness of God, as is usual for me and as I ever expect to
be. My brother and sisters (who send their compliments) with the family are
comfortable in this regard. I hope the same with respect to you and yours.
Please to remember me in the kind best manner to Mrs. Dering, Miss Hepzi,
Mr. Henry and the children.
With proper compliments to all inquiring friends, I take leave to subscribe my
self your cordial friend and obliged humble servant William Adams
Book: 2
Number: 143
Date: 8/16/1762
To: Thomas Dering
From: Theodore Wentworth
Place: Portsmouth
Portsmouth August 16, 1762
Dear Sir
By Capt. Blunt who sails this week I shall ship to you a box with five or six
pieces of shooting Holland such as I heretofore sent you; which I must ask
the favor of you to sell for my account – – who intend to send for sale 10
or 15 quintals [-] table fish – – I have (at last) sold your Poppor and shall
receive to pay for it within three weeks, and will endeavor to change into
your currency and remit to you – – I have occasion for a very good and
genteel curricle to go with two horses which I shall be obliged you’ll get
made for me – – if can be done within three weeks – – I should choose it to
hang upon steel springs – – though mountings gilt – – other body painted
any colors you fancy; with no arms but in the place there of a cipher – – two
good harnesses with plain hunting back saddles of black leather and this
seems of Thompson’s in with yellow buff leather, – – and saddle cloths of the
color the chairs is lined with and bound with the same as the chairs – – two
good bridles with small curb bits -and every other way to be complete- this I
suppose will cost about 35£ [-] which I hope the linen and trim will not – –
if not I will remit you to [-] -- enclosed is a piece of cloth the color of which
would suit me and should [-] of a trimming of red or yellow and white – –
but this and the fashion of the curricle leave intensely to your taste; which
am already assured will suit me -- [- I am very respectfully your most humble
servant Wentworth
Since I wrote the within, Blunt has engaged to go to Halifax – – so shall send
the things they are mentioned by the first opportunity which will be within a
week. I am yours W
• It will be a long time before a standard form of money comes to be. The discussion below that includes LINY pounds (£)
is distinguishing them from New England and New York currency. There is also English (London) currency.
Book: 2
Number: 144
Date: 8/23/1762
To: Thomas Dering
From: Theodore Wentworth
Place: Portsmouth
96
Portsmouth August 23, 1762
Dear Sir
I am favored with yours of the 19th instant [----------] long since but is
disappointed. I sent them to Dr. Lamonts lodging. Who told me would
deliver them you as he was going in a Chaise, but, upon his setting out could
not make room for them which I never knew till lately however or vessel is
bound to Boston the morrow when shall send them to you [----------] name
Phillips – - I received the paper for my entry for Blount. And do now
enclose you the amount of the cost which is £ 48/ LINY and why by his
account also £24/ LINY for the things had a view in Boston. I am not quite
certain the cost no farther than this that when I took the account of you I
reckoned its 24 pounds [----] which is £24 LINY. I know it was more than
20/8 and believe the above 24/ was the cost. I have lost your account and
find it I can’t. When you receive this letter please to let me hear from you as
it goes [-] Skinner (Major Wendley) (daughter) via Marblehead. I hope have
not disappointed Mr. Blanchard of the sale of the [-] if you have will pay all
damages – – I am very sorry to be the occasion of so much trouble wish it
may be in my power to make some small retaliation for this, and many other
of your favors so every kindly bestowed on me which I assure you good Sir
shall ever have a grateful remembrance of and if at any time I can be of the
least service to you here or elsewhere for a command me which will still add
to my many obligations and my utmost efforts shall not ever be wanting so do
the best in my power let it be what it will. Jack desires to be remembered to
you have delivered you messages – –
Mrs. Wentworth joins with me and best regards to you and good Mrs. Dering
and am sincerely your most obliged friend, Theodore Wentworth
Book: 2
Number: 145
Date: 8/26/1762
To: Thomas Dering
From: Andrew Oliver, Jr.
Place: Salem
Salem 26 August 1762 10 o’clock at night
Dear Sir
I this moment received your favor of the same date with this as I did
yesterday yours by Mr. Cummins at Marblehead and would have sent you an
answer by him this afternoon but had not time to write you as I was honored
today with the company of [-] worthy clergymen to dine with me and did not
know time enough of Mr. Cummins’s sudden departure for Boston. I had no
opportunity to talk with Col. Brattle upon our affair after I parted with you
but in the enclosed have [-] him to take up my received and to take your note
[-] same [-] and date of his for the remainder [-] the execution. And now
Sir I hope that what has raised in regard to this bond will be no interruption
of the friendship which has subsisted between us as I am conscious to
myself that my motive in proceeding thus was to secure ourselves consistent
with your security as an executor which I now charitably hope and believe
was your motive in the plea you made – – I am obliged to you for your
intelligence and am with respects to Mrs. Dering your most humble servant
A Oliver Junior
Book: 2
Number: 148
Date: 8/26/1762
To: Thomas Dering
From: John Wentworth
Place: Portsmouth
Portsmouth September 28,1762
Dear Sirs
I must again ask the favor of you to forward the enclosed and that you will
advise me of whom and what is the most opportunity to Europe – – enclosed
are ten half [-] which you’ll please to credit my account for – – if the nails
I desired are not your ship’s ... My ship is yet detained here ... before a
westerly wind shall fairly put her to sea and may arrive in season. I am with
compliments your most obliged friend Wentworth
• When the Derings moved out of their house in Boston, both Henry Dering and their cousin Hepzi had to find other
housing.
Book: 3
97
Number: 231
Date: 11/22/1762
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Small
Place: Boston
November 22
Dear friend
It gives me great pleasure that I have this opportunity of writing to you
for I long to hear from my dear child who was almost forever on my mind
contriving how I shall get him with me but I hope that same Providence that
carried him away will return him to me again. But I see plainly that it would
be too much for me to have that pleasure for at present I have everything
that I could desire. No hard looks nor cramped speeches. I have had my
dark days. I hope the sun is going to arise on me. I wrote you by way of Mr.
Pegene Adams that Dr. Chauncey had been to intercede for Mr. Brigham
and that day week that the doctor was here Mr. Edwards came which has
kept my mind on a continual agitation or the parting with my dear boy
would have been too much for me, dear soul. I hope it has had his health.
Pray take care of him. He is worth all your care. I keep his old jacket for my
companion and comfort myself that as long Providence will point out a way
for me to have the dear little creature with me again and if I never have I
shall look on it is a frown of Providence.
I want very much to hear from you and how the country agrees with you
and whether it is agreeable to you. I hope it will prove so as it is your lot. It
would give me great pleasure to have had you my very near neighbor as
long as I had lived, but Providence has thought otherwise and I hope it will
be for the best. Here we are in the old house and if our dear little prattling
boy was here it would seem like old times, but go where I will I miss the dear.
Return tis a sore trial to me but I must submit. Harry goes constant to the
old brick of his own accord. I never asked him. Mr. Pemberton has dined
with us. I wrote you all the news in the letter that I hope you have got before
this with your vinegar cask and one tree for the other. The cow got in and
demolished it. Pray let me know how Comus likes and whether he behaves
well. I fear the dear little boy begins to forget me. Sweetheart I hope I shall
never forget him. What does Betsy say. Has she any notion of coming back or
is she pleased with her new habitation.
Your friends one and all make great inquiry after you and want to hear from
you. Dr. Chauncey laughs and says he wants Mr. Dering to know of Miss
Hepzi carrying on and how shall I let him know of it and a great deal of the
like of. I do assure you the doctor seems to have my interest at heart and
speaks so highly of me in all company that I am quite ashamed when I hear
it repeated. He was the other day of visiting when Mr. Edwards’ daughter
was and I was the subject of conversation and somebody turned to the doctor
and said that was Mr. daughter is it said he and so directed his discourse to
her and said too many fine things of me to relate now but told her that it
would be her fault if she was not happy for he did not know the woman in
the town that would be altogether so agreeable in that station as I should be.
Believe me it is a shocking affair. It is almost insupportable to three great men
and women children but my friends and his friends are so pleased with it that
there is nothing to be told about it but that it must be so and if it is. I hope
will be for my comfort and happiness. I shall be glad when you write me that
you would let me know what my friends write you about this affair.
Harry must be married or I see will be undone if I leave him. He is a great
98
trouble to me and I am very much concerned for him which foreclose me
your friend and cousin at command. Hepzi Small
Pray let me know what pair of this says about affairs. Johnny Cotton send
his love to you and I will have wrote you but had no time. He is moved into
Mr. Winslows house. His wife not a bed yet. He says that the Royal infant will
be to be seen in a fortnight. I expect to want a little money.
Book: 2
Number: 146
Date: 12/6/1762
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Small
Place: Boston
Book: 2
Number: 147
Date: 12/10/1762
To: Thomas Dering
From: Joseph Barnaby
Place: Liverpool
December ye 6
Friend
I received yours by post, which cost 20 Shillings and shall be glad always
to hear from you and it will give me great pleasure but can’t afford to pay
so dear for it. Mr. Hubbard says he told you to put your letters undercover
to him and not to his care. This you must rectify if you write by the post
again. Harry’s Crapes are home and Mr. Wentworth is at Portsmouth when
he comes home will take her judgment in a pound for Mr. Dering. Jack
Wentworth is with us. He says he will come and see you. Your friends are
all well. Mrs. Huse sends her love to Mrs. Dering. Things remain much
as they did when you left us, nothing remarkable that I think of. pray Kiss
Sylvester. tell him miss him. Tell him I think of him long to see him and hope
to have the pleasure of his dear little prattle and today in my bosom once
more. I hope I never shall forget him. We have heard from Mrs. Winslow.
She has had two storms but go [-] admires her place. I have had no better
[-] nor Newport only one that Mr. Dering [-] her sister. I was at Mr. Coles
last evening. They were glad to hear from you. Mr. Goldthwaite often calls
to know if I have heard from you. You do not say anything about Comus. I
want to know how he behaves. I suppose before this Mr. Lloyd has informed
you of all my affairs which conclude me yours as ever at command Hepzi
Joseph Barnaby Liverpool December 10, 1762 I wrote you by Capt.
Nicholson some time past and letters that I sent not come to ...... (illegible)
• Below is the first letter in the Collection that was addressed to Thomas Dering at Shelter Island. In it William Adams
described an incident in which his brother was bitten by a dog. This event introduced a new theme in the letters, one in which
Mr. Adams’s brother was debilitated by “fits.” Did the dog have rabies?
Book: 2
Number: 149
Date: 12/11/1762
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Adams
Place: New London
New London December 11, 1762
My Dear Friend
Tis with pain I take my pen in hand to write, when I promised myself the
pleasure and satisfaction of visiting you in person before now; So it pleases
the Sovereign designer of all things and all events still to detain me on this
side the water. My brother, as he was entering the meeting house, the last
Lord’s day morning, was seized upon by a dog that happened to be in the
passage which rent and mangled one of his legs in a shocking manner before
he could disengage himself from the assault; this with my brother ill [-] of
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body, rendered his case very difficult and we have been not a little fearful and
apprehensive with respect to the consequences. At present the appearances
are more encouraging than they have been. You will easily conclude that I
shall not think of leaving him while there is any appearance of dangers or till
there is a fair prospect of his recovery. I am very sensible how melancholy and
tedious it must be to you to be deprived of the privilege of [-] worship on ye
Lords day. It will be so to every service with different person and especially to
those yet have constantly enjoyed and diligently improved that happy season.
You may depend upon me if health and season permit as soon as possible. In
the meantime remember me to your good spouse, Mr. Fanning and spouse
and to all inquiring friends and believe me your obliged faithful friend and
servant William Adams
• 1763 began a very tough period for the colonies. The Treaty of Paris ended the Seven Year War, known in the colonies as
the French and Indian War, and began a systematic effort on the part of the British to make the Americans pay. Also that
year, the British attempted to stop settlements in the Western territories mostly because they did not want the expense of trying
to protect settlers from hostile Indians.
Book: 2
Number: 150
Date: 1/8/1763
To: Thomas Dering
From: Henry Dering
Place: Boston
Boston January 8, 1763
Dear Brother
I have just time to enclose you the account of sundries paid for your account
amounting to £11,257.18.3 1/4 old tender and you are now clear of any
demands from this part of the world except from Mr. Hulbert, Hepzi
Edwards and an account to settle with Dr. Perkins a copy of whose account
against you will send you in my next; the whole amount is £28.19.4 our
lawful money, but I believe you have full as much against him as I have
paid him his account against the estate may draw his account and then is
though I now recollect an account of Granton’s for some green pepper, a
small account of Mr. Chapman’s which shall forward you in my next and
desire to know whether you’d have me paid them. You’ll find the sum above
mentioned come pretty near the [-] £8000 and £3500 the sums you know
you left me to discharge the balance being only £242.1.8 3/4 old tender
which accounting or enumerating the account left yet for me to discharge.
I believe will leave a balance in my hands on that particular account. I shall
soon send you a deed to execute for me for the house in Mr. Wentworth’s
occupation was in hopes I should ere this have received Mr. Gould’s deed
and Mr.Tyng has been with me again to know if I had not heard from you.
Kept up your spirits and if I can in any way assist you you may command me
with wishing you all a successful and happy year concludes me your friend
and brother Henry Dering
• On January 17, 1763, Abigail Grant gave birth to her first child, Elizabeth, in Halifax, Nova Scotia where Alexander
was serving as Indian Commerce Contractor of Canada and Agent Victualler to His Majesty’s Ships at Halifax.
Book: 2
Number: 152
Date: 2/21/1763
To: Mary and Thomas Dering
From: Margaret Chesebrough
Place: Newport
100
Newport February 21, 1763
Dear Brother and Sister
I did intend to have wrote you separate but my time is so short must write
but one letter. Mr. Smith was so good as to call and tell me that he should set
out tomorrow. I received both your letters by Mr. Amory since which I never
could hear of an opportunity for if Mr. Tinows knows of any he will not
let me know of them. As to his sending anybody on the farm I do not know
what his desire is. I said to him once I hope that he would not and added that
if he had any regard for me or those that are gone I desired that he would
try for one year. His answer was the thought not have his rent and that I did
not want he should. There was a man with him this day about the farm. He
said to the man that I would not let him let it. What he desires I know not but
believe he will not this year. But all the blame will fall on me if any than it
should be.
Oh, never did I expect this trouble and difficulty. Oh may I have wisdom
and grace given me patience and [-] me to conduct in a right manner under
this sore trial. I well know that nothing happens by chance that not a hair
of my head fall to the ground without just mission. I well know that I have
forfeited all favor [-] and from God. But to say that I desire what I meet
with from man I cannot. Oh my dear friends let us endeavor to make a wise
improvement of what we are meeting with. Oh let us take care that we do
not [--] at Divine Providence. I am afraid of myself and fear for you – – I
hope long before this that Mr. Adams is with you. Please do give my love to
him and tell him I would ask an interest in his prayers. Oh would beg of him
to take some care of Sylvester’s learning for the sake of those that is gone. I
long to hear from you and to see you and if I should live till summer and Mr.
Grant’s family should be here as they propose I shall try hard to come and
see you – –
Mrs. Grant has got a daughter and as well and as happy this world can make
her the daughter is called Betsy after Lady Grant in London. Mr. has been
drawing out the account and I suppose will find them soon. He has received
almost all the money of Mr. Stuart’s. But very little falls to my share. I think
sometimes that I am as mortified a creature as lives but when I think of
Nathan’s wife I have not yet arrived to her [--] owe that mine may have as
good affect as I had. I am writing in company I don’t know but that I write
nonsense but know that I am writing to good friends that well excuses it.
My dear sister I will find your patterns the first opportunity. My dear brother
I will answer your letter as soon as I can. It is greatly to be lamented the
want of the ordinance but you have the God of endurance to go to. I have a
thousand things to say but must break off with wishing you and yours the best
of heaven’s blessings. Mrs. Osborn desires her love to you and Lady. I am
dear brother and sister your affectionate sister Margaret Chesebrough
• It was much of a relief to her many friends, that although she rejected the advances of a very much admired clergy man,
Hepzt Small looked favorably upon the widower Joseph Edwards, the bookseller.
Book: 2
Number: 154
Date: 4/25/1763
To: Thomas Dering
From: Alexander Cummings
Place: Boston
Boston April 25, 1763
Dear Sir
You are leaving Boston with your family to reside at so great a distance
went to my heart. Time though they say affects the deepest impressions
both in matter and in mind has yet made no alteration in the nature of my
reflections and on this event. I can’t but remember with pleasure our former
friendly intercourse and frequent interviews. But even this pleasure is now
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succeeded by pain, in the reflection that this pleasure can’t be repeated
or enjoyed again; at least that this happiness is very uncertain. However
neither the remembrance of this former Felicity nor the pain in the loss of
it will suffer me to forget you or yours. You have my tenderest wishes for
your welfare in all respects. Your happiness in both worlds will even be a
part of my care and concern – – Indeed nothing could have in any degree
reconciled me at all to your going to Shelter Island but the hope that it
might be for your happiness. And the desire that you should be happy
even at the expense of some of my pleasures. As often almost as I passed
by your former mansion it revives the first impression in all its power.
But you doubtless remember the old affair related to Mrs. Grant. I
assure you I have not forgot it. I think more seriously of it than ever. For
generally [--] by our people that the matter between us is concluded and I
would have been (provided she had favored it) but that some had throwed
obstacles in the way, which have obliged me to pause and inquire into the
ground and reason of this conduct and ones have been very officious and
represented her a person of a very small degree of understanding and
or very great degree of ill nature. Upon inquiry of those that I should
think if there were reports of all branches in her character could not be
ignorant of it. No group for such report appears. Some can’t be reconciled
to it because she is not a [-] member.
However they say but little to me only by way of him [-]. None have
spoken out except the author of this first representations whom I can’t
find out or who communicated the account in a private channel which I
couldn’t trace – – by means of these things it has come to pass that I have
not yet made any declaration to Miss – – and indeed the town was so full
of my courting her that she avoided me. And unless I had expressly waited
up on her at her father’s it was almost impossible to have an interview.
Hence it has come to pass that I have not seen her but twice since you left
us; and those times under the disadvantages of company; and she [---] in
pain all the time on account of the prevalence of the above report – – but
this day I am like to have the pleasure of seeing her. She is my favorite
lady still.
You have heard what is like to become of Miss Hepzi after rejecting a
deacon of great weight and gravity – after rejecting a clergyman whose
application was seconded and recommended by all the authority [-] zeal
and adoration of a Rev. Dr. after all this she both smiled on Mr. Edwards,
and declared to him in a way more convictive than any ever the most
presumptorary terms would have been any declared to the world that she
prefers Mr. Edwards who is neither, only a wonder, prefers him and says
both to Deacon and Divine.
Was it insufferable for Miss Hepzi’s to show this [-] to the [-] especially the
Cottons? and is [-] an [-] [-] [-] good nature that even the Cottons’ don’t
suspect the affront but as Miss Hepzi’s good friend as much as ever [-] And
for my own part though it may seem to be for me what against the cloth
of command her conduct and appears or her preference of the warden to
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both the deacon and divine.
We have abounded in political disputes.. His honor has been treated without
either grace or justice – – the [--] religion or common decency – – but I must
not add make my most cordial salutations acceptable to Mrs. Dering and
accept the enclosed pamphlet from him who is dear Sir with sincere respect
to her and you your most obedient very humble servant A. Cummings
Book: 2
Number: 153
Date: 4/29/1763
To: Thomas Dering
From: John Cotton
Place: Boston
Boston April 29, 1763
Dear Tommy the cause of my writing to you at this time is surely to convince
you that I love and have not forgot you. I hope Molly and your dear babes
are well. Pray my love to them, though I suppose the small ones have forgot
me. Indulgent Providence has in some measure made up of late great and
heavy breach in my family by giving me a daughter very nearly resembling
both of dec’d -- a fine healthy fat girl (this is a favor entirely unmerited by
me). Mrs. Cotton is well very hardy and grows fat to her no small concern,
desires her love to you and Mrs. Dering and children. We all should rejoice
to see you, pray come as soon as your harvest is over or as your business
will otherwise permit – – I am with ye greatest sincerity your most humble
servant and dear cousin John Cotton
• As Alexander Cummings’ April 25, 1763 letter foretold, Hepzi Small, now 49, married Joseph Edwards, a widower
and bookseller, printer, and stationer. It was through this marriage that the Dering family gained a whole new crop of
“cousins,” including members of the Smith and Storer families. Abigail Smith married John Adams, a circuit riding lawyer,
and thus he became a member of the larger circle of kinsmen.
Book: 2
Number: 155
Date: 6/5/1763
To: Thomas Dering
From: Samuel Hunting
Place: Southampton
Southampton June 5, 1763
Mr. Dering
Sir I received yours and according to your desire I have bought you 23 yards
of good towl cloth which I give 2/2 per yard for. I had none by me and I
send it to Sag Harbor to you care of Mr. William Havens to be forwarded to
you with regards to you and yours and Mrs. Dering and [-] I remain your
kinsman and humble servant Samuel Huntting
Shelter Island, June 12, 1763 -- Received of Thomas Dering two pounds
nine shillings and ten pence [-] for twenty three yards towl cloth on account
of Sam Huntting Esq. Joseph Jacoby
Book: 2
Number: 156
Date: 6/13/1763
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Edwards
Place: Boston
Boston June 13
Dear friend
After acquainting you of the receipt of your letter by post of 23 May I shall
inform you that I have changed my lodging and my name and am now next
door to the post office where I hope often to receive letters from you. The
things that you write for we sent the first of May by one Higgins to the care
of Pegene Adams and am surprised you have not received them. The Crape
for your Waistcoat and Harry’s coat for the child little homos and sundry
other things, large case full which I hope you have got before this or must
103
pray you to look after them. I have not bought Mrs. Dering’s [--] not yet but
shall as soon as Charlestown is over. Mrs. Thomas has been very ill. Mrs.
Gooch is down there now.
As soon as she comes up I shall go and tarry a week with her. I do wish you
could see how agreeably I am settled in life. I have it more than made up for
all those troubles that I have gone through in life. I wish I could see you for I
can’t write you what I should be glad to say to you but shall let you know by
little and little as I write to you how things are. All my friends came to see me
in my new habitation.
Mrs. Sanford do we show you is very complicit and friendly. I mention her
because you know she does not visit much. I believe if my letter goes by this
opportunity I shan’t be able to write to Mrs. Dering but if not I will write her
and shall send her a piece of my wedding necklace to know how she likes it.
As to Comus I know not what to say about him. But I shall let you know
when I can hear of anybody that will give your price. I sent you a long letter-by this Captain Higgins and Mr. Cummings wrote you they are getting
ready for the wedding at Mr. Goldthwaites. They seem to be pleased or both
did. Pray what will you do with your desk and book (as Harry has casted up
and put it in the warehouse) I fear you will not sell it soon. You would be
surprised to see the alterations that Mrs. Gould has made in your house. I
believe it has cost him no small matter. Harry lives in Sheaff’s house with a
housekeeper and Shaeff is in the old Boston house. I wrote you that neither
Sheaff nor Mrs. Sheaff is near Lane. I am sorry to hear that Mrs. Dering
is that way again but we must leave that with Providence. I am glad to hear
Betsy is better. I long to see my little dear boy but I don’t know when I shall. I
often think of him and wish he was a little nearer to me. I received yours of
ye 14 May. Pray what is the matter that you say nothing of Mr. Adams. Is he
not with you? If he is pray give my respects to him. I am going up to Shaeff’s
to see when Webb sails.
If not gone I shall add more at my return and write Mrs. Dering if time-since I wrote the above I have seen Mrs. Storer and she desires to have the
refusal of Comus and to know what your lowest price is. I shall be glad of
an answer to this letter soon. I have no satisfaction in writing to you for your
hardly ever receive my letters. I have many things to say to you but do not
care to write as I do not know whether you ever will receive it after I have
wrote. Webb told Shaeff that he should not go to Shelter Island so I desire
this by the post.
Nancy Wentworth went down to dine with her uncle Governor the other
Saturday with some company and one Fisher. I do not know but you may
know him. He has courted her some time. The Governor married them
before he left them go and I hear that Mark is much displeased with it but
I have not seen Mrs. Wentworth since I heard the news so can’t say much
about it but the [-] that the man bears I think he has as good left somebody
else had her that we know – –
104
I just now received a letter from Mrs. Chesebrough. She writes me that she
has not heard from you this three months but that she accidentally heard that
Mrs. Dering is brought to bed and was well which I am glad to hear. Mrs.
Grant and her daughter is at her father’s. Mrs. Chesebrough writes me that
she has four in family added to what she had before. She talks of making
you a visit this summer but she fears this new addition will prevent. Kiss dear
Sylvester tell him I long to see him and hope I shall ere long. Tomorrow Mr.
Cummings and Ms. Betsy and Mr. Edwards and I set out for Marshfield to
see Sally who is very poorly. Don’t fail to let me know if you receive this and
the other things by the first opportunity which concludes me yours as ever at
command Hepzi Edwards
Pray remember me to Betsy and Mrs. Dering. Your friends all send their love
to you and make great inquiries after you and family. Mr. Edwards desires to
be remembered to you and Mrs. Dering and wishes you joy.
• Hepzi’s letters were always full of news, but not necessarily good news. She also tended to tell who was involved in
scandal, but never what the actual scandal was. There was no privacy in letters.
Book: 2
Number: 157
Date: 6/28/1763
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Edwards
Place: Boston
Boston June 28
Dear Coz
I have only time to let you know I am removed from my little cell to my
neighbor divergence when or where I shall move next I can’t tell. She is the
only good Samaritan that I can find, be you warmed and be you clothed is
not the thing but I hope God will provide. He ever has appeared for me in
trouble and I hope he never will leave me nor forsake me. I desire to trust in
him, my dear Coz. You don’t know how I am [-] not one relation to ... Have
my God to go to. I hope when I write again I shall be in better spirits. I am
going this day to see Mrs. Thomas. Mrs. Deming is dead and to be buried
tomorrow. And so we go one after another. I check myself when I am anxious
that I [-] not belong here and I must have trials which [-] and I hope I shall
still trust in the Lord. He has never left me yet nor I hope never will. When
do you go on the Island. It seems as if I should never hear from you when
you get there. Give my love to Mrs. Dering and the children and believe me
to be your affectionate cousin H Edwards
Tell Betsy I long to see her. Riley Smith sails for Europe in a fortnight.
• On July 3, 1763, Mary Dering delivered a little boy, whom they named Henry Packer Dering, who would live to
maturity.
Book: 2
Number: 158
Date: 8/3/1763
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Edwards
Place: Boston
Boston August ye 3rd
Dear Friend
I received yours of July ye 15th and ye 21st and was very glad to find Mrs.
Dering was so well and that she made a nurse and so is all your friends. Pray
don’t you intend to make us a visit this fall. Me thinks it will be worthwhile
if it what were only to see how I live. All your friends are inquiring. If you
don’t intend to let them see you I do assure you they will be extremely glad
to see you here. I expect the parson had made himself merry about me. He
is married and is very much pleased. Parson Brigham is courting Miss Molly
105
Goldthwaite. I forget whether I wrote you that in my last. I am very glad that
you have got your things that I sent you and that the dear boy has got his
hammer. I wish you would come and see us too.
Comus I hope you will keep him with you. I think that is the best place for
him. I shall say nothing about him to anybody till I hear from you again.
Tom Greene is dead. he died [-] only he was at Worcester for his health. He
is to be brought to town to be buried. The day that Cattey Gooch had her
fortune in her hands and was obliged to pay her one board she’d left her
uncle’s house and said she would pay for her board where she could be well
treated and where it was agreeable to her. (There are two lines which are not
legible with tape over them) lent to Mr. Gardiner.
They made no wedding at Mr. Goldthwaite’s. I write things as they come
in my head. You must read Mrs. Dering’s letter. John Cotton lives in Jimmy
Smith’s house and Ned Greene is to live in the house that John moves
out of. I don’t know what to write you of Ned Reed a nurse desires to be
remembered to Sylvester. Our family all remain as they did but Mr. Gould
has sent Adam off and so has Mr. Gooch sent Jupiter for their bad deeds.
Be sure Mr. Phillips has got a letter from Andrew and he has run them in
debt 500 pounds [-] and now I hear they are determined to let him die in
jail. Miss Kitty sends her love to you and Mrs. Dering. Old lady Green sends
her love to Mrs. Dering and is very glad to hear she can suckle her child. We
are expecting Mr. Whitefield every day for he is arrived at Vergeny. I hope
you will see him before he leaves New England. I do not think of anything
remarkable to finish and remain your friend and cousin at common. Tell
Mrs. Dering Mrs. Gould sends her love to her and says that she has made
great alterations in the house and she must come and see them.
• The following letter was originally thought to be dated 1768, but it does not fit into that time period. This is more
appropriate for its placement.
Book: 3
Number: 254
Date: 7/20/1763
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Edwards
Place: Boston
Boston July ye 20th
Dear friend
I received a letter from you the way of Martin Howard. The date of it is 23
June. You say that you have not heard from me since 1 January. If so I think
there is fewer letters some where and as I have wrote you in one of them
that it is not worth my wile to write to you if you never receive them. I don’t
like my nonsense should be seen by all the world. You desired that we would
direct our letters to Sam Gordon in New London and so we have done.
This letter will be a copy of the three or four that I have wrote you since 1
May. John Cotton tells me that you have received his letter by one Higgins
that carried all your things that you wrote for such as teakettle and common
things then was a case full of things, and a letter from Mr. Cummings
enclosed in mine that you say nothing of.
He was married last Tuesday to Miss Betsey Goldthwaite. in another letter I
sent you a piece of my wedding sack which I perceive you have not received.
The things that went by Higgins were directed to Pegene Adams. If my
106
letters ever come to hand pray let me know of it for I am afraid to write as
I find you never get my letters. In another letter I wrote you for your lowest
price for commons.
Mr. Storer desired to have the refusal of him and of Harry’s moving into
Schaeffs’ house and how he lives and one of the alterations that Mr. Gold has
made in your house. Last week Bowers was married to Miss Molly Shurbark.
Theodore and wife has been in town for some time. They are gone to
commencement this day. I told Mrs. Gooch of Betsy’s doll but I want to
know how we are to get it to her if we were a mind to send that or anything
else. I find by your letter that Mrs. Dering is not brought to bed. Mrs.
Chesebrough wrote me word that she was some time ago and I have told all
your friends so--as they make great inquire after you. Mrs. Grant and her
little daughter is at her father’s as I suppose you have heard. I have wrote two
or three times to know whether Mr. Adams is with you but you do not write
any thing about him. I fear he is not with you as I hear nothing from him.
Mr. Edwards sends his regards to you and Mrs. Dering and is much pleased
with the dear child’s prattle. Tell him I think of him and that is all that I can
do at present.
I long to see you but when that will be I can’t tell without you will come to
Boston and see us. We have been all to see Sally and Martin Howard has
been up to see her. George Green is gone down to see his sister. He sailed
the day before your letter came, but I have sent it by way of Halifax. Mr.
Foxcroft preaches again and better then ever he did. Brinley is courting Mr.
Goldthwaite’s sister Molly, and that is to be a match I suppose.
Mrs. Schaeff has brought to bed. Do write me by the first opportunity
whether you have received all my letters. I have not time to day anymore
now, for I accidentally hear of this opportunity, which I hope you will get.
Nurse desires to be remembered to Sylvester and I also read tell the dear
soul that I think of him and long to see him and have him with me but that
can’t be at present which concludes me yours affectionately as ever Hepzi
Edwards. This is the second or third letter signed with this name to you.
• Elizabeth Wentworth was Thomas Dering’s sister. She was married in 1742 to Samuel Wentworth son of John
Wentworth, then the Lieutenant Governor of New Hampshire. Samuel was a 1728 graduate of Harvard College and a
warden of King’s Chapel.
• Their daughter Frances, born 1745, and now 18 years old, was married to Theodore Atkinson, a 1757 graduate of
Harvard College, and Secretary of the Province of New Hampshire.
• Frances’ one and only love, however, was always her cousin John Wentworth, son of Mark Hunking Wentworth, and
nephew of Benning Wentworth, the present Governor of New Hampshire. John had been unavailable to her, however,
because following his graduation from Harvard in 1755, the attainment of a Master’s Degree in 1758, and five years as a
merchant’s apprentice in Portsmouth, he was shipped off to England to advance his education and establish valuable family
connections. When he returned to America in 1766, he returned as the replacement for his Uncle Benning as Governor of
New Hampshire. Frances’ husband Theodore Atkinson died on October 28, 1769 of consumption, and 14 days after he
was buried, Frances Atkinson and John Wentworth were married.
Book: 2
107
Number: 159
Date: 8/7/1763
To: Thomas Dering
From: Elizabeth Wentworth
Place: Boston
Dear Brother
I received your letter with great pleasure as it brought me the news of
Mrs. Dering being safe abed and being like to make [-] I never should have
suspected. See what one’s native air will sometimes do. I know it gives both
you and her pleasure and therefore as to mine. You write in good spirits and
I pray everything may succeed to your wish. I often think of you not a day
escapes. Mrs. Thomas has been very ill but now getting better. Your letter is
forwarded to her; Mrs. Gold is moved and Harry.
We have been surrounded with carpenters and masons painters and pavers
ever since you left us. Harry has been full of workmen ever since he has been
in his new habitation therefore could see no company. He spends a good deal
of his time with us at present till his house is in order. He is papering and
painting his house has moved the outhouse and granting to the upper end of
the garden and made a wood house so the yard lays open as far as the garden
used to come. The back kitchen is well fixed up.
The Negro boy you left him with is still with him and the housekeeper is a
maid that lived with Mrs. Fletcher “who is gone to her husband.” She gives
a good [-] of her. This person is to have a maid under her. I think behaves
better than he used to but I never spare him an ace but am always talking
to him to take pains and govern his person. I have dwelt long on the subject
because I know you would be glad to hear as much of him as possible. Mrs.
Gould remains still like of fine flower, the least breath of wind over sets
her. Mrs. Anthorpe is very well and has spent the summer in the country.
But before I say any thing farther; what do you think Nancy Wentworth is
married to Mr. Fisher. You can’t be more surprised than we all were.
Today Mr. Fanning dined with us a gentleman Harry introduced brother
to him that lived on your estate. He talks of setting out very early in the
morning so I am obliged to write by candlelight and that don’t suit my old
eyes. Tell Mrs. Dering I long to see her and the children. And if it wasn’t for
my old gouty gentlemen she should see me before a 12 month was at an end.
I shall ever have a high esteem for her and hope she with you will sometime
or other favor us with a visit.
My house and arc will always be open to receive you. Mrs. Sheaff has
presented him with another son that was Christened today call Roger Haib.
They are moved into the old customhouse. Mr. Wentworth wrote you some
time ago and sent some seeds. Did you ever receive them? I know not what
sort of summer you have had but we have had none at all. It has rained more
or less every day this three months and we are now with all the windows
and doors shut as much as in the fall of the year; I seem to think while I am
writing I am talking news that is quite out of the question.
Book: 2
108
Mr. Wentworth’s old luck has not entirely left him but thank God the war
is now at an end and they will take no more. They have had the last. Seven
sails of vessel has he had taken and lost since the war come in. The candle
is almost burnt into the socket so must bid you Adieu and be assured I
remain with love to Mrs. Dering and the children your ever affectionate sister
Elizabeth Wentworth Boston August 7, 1763
Boston August ye 29th
Dear friend
I can only write you a few lines by this opportunity which is to go this
afternoon and how can I say it that my last is because and this day to
attend the funeral of our dear friend William Cummings. He was well
and at Lectern the Thursday before last and the next Thursday morning
a breathless corpse. It was his turn to preach had he lived to see it. Mr.
Adams preached for him. A more solemn assembly you never see. Poor
Betsy the most distressed creature that ever you see and indeed so is all the
family for they acknowledge they all loved him too well. A most melancholy
scene indeed a bride and widow in six weeks. The dear man is no more. If
I live I shall write you again soon and more at large. Colonel Brattle’s wife
is dead and old Mr. Greenleaf. They are both to be buried tomorrow. My
mind is so perplex with the death of this dear friend that I can’t of anything
now to write you, Your friends are all well asked after you and desired to be
remembered to you and wife. Mr. Cummings has made a will but how I have
not heard yet. I beg you to let me hear from you. Rowland Cotton was to see
me a Saturday and tells me I may depend on it that Judge Russell has been
to see Miss Sandford and isn’t going again and he thinks will be successful
but more on that when I write again but this is a dying world we live in. May
we so consider of it as to prepare for our change which may be the happy
case of you and I is the desire and prayer of your friend and well wishes.
My love to the dear boy. Tell him I love him dearly and to Mrs. Dering. Mr.
Cummings was opened and in his liver there grew a hard something as big
your than and his call all gone he died in great pain and distress but now is I
trust in glory. Hepzi Edwards
• While Thomas Dering repaired to Mary’s estate at Shelter Island with his family, Henry Dering remained in Boston
to close up the business. Among many other Boston events, he reported that an autopsy was performed on the Reverend
Cummins’s body after his untimely death.
Number: 160
Date: 8/29/1763
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Edwards
Place: Boston
Book: 2
Number: 161 & 162
Date: 8/29/1763
To: Thomas Dering
From: Henry Dering
Place: Boston
Boston August 29, 1763
Dear brother
Since my last to you by Mr. Fanning I have received from Mr. Gold 88
pounds three shillings and two pence halfpenny lawful money, but the
persons I engaged to settle with on your account and so very pressing the
time having been elapsed that I engaged payment full five months shall not
be able to assist you with your balance till I can get it from Mr. Gould who
I shall [-] all in my power. Money is in general with everyone for as fierce
in Boston as ever you knew it, however, I doubt not but you’ll find on an
adjustment of the affairs that you made a better disposition of the house by
selling it to Mr. Gold than you could other ways done for you have at this
time near settled with all the persons you were concerned with in Boston and
will finally receive something besides what you carried away with you now
had you sold it to Mr. Paxton, Dr. Lloyd or Mr Ap.
You’d not have been near so well off for had it been to the first or second
mentioned you did not have any more ever to receive then you carried out of
town all had sent you by Mr. Lloyd had you taken up with the latter proposal
of crediting a 12 month of paying the same you are now to be paid your
109
security as Mr. Gould has no deed yet of the house could not have been
better for certainly were all the buildings consumed this instance the bricks
building stones a seller ready dug and stoned basement new stone vault
and would soon fetch £100 sterling which is about the sum now due from
Mr. Gold and I am or have the highest probability to suppose or expect
will not remain that sum if anything but an extreme short time. I shall be
very assiduous with him that he lessen it with me every week something and
although you cannot at this pretense receive ...it which might do you much
service yet it will never come unacceptable. It will at least do.
To pay rent with, which is far better than the other case where you’d have
nothing and I never heard anyone but said you sold it for full as much as
they thought you would have been able to have got for it. I believe most
people in the repair it was in thought it was not worth at most more than
1000 pounds lawful money you know that 13 years ago it was appraised at
the price you sold it at less than one year ago it is true since that time these
have been some addition of land but the buildings were all that value worse
in the carpenters and painters bills the latter of which you know it much
wanted since which at the division it was appraised at 1000 pounds lawful
therefore upon the whole you think I may be glad that things have turned
out as well as they have respecting it and that you took my advice in selling
it to Mr. Gold.
I dined last week with Mr. Hughes where the conversation turned on
Thomas and he desired I would write you that he would give you 500
pounds our old 10 or 65 pounds 13 shillings and four pence lawful money
for him and not a farthing more. You’ll therefore in your next care to write
me relative to this point.
The Rev. Mr. Cummins one of the pastors of the South Church in Boston
last Thursday was a week was at Thursday lectured and that night was
taken with his old disorder which so increased on him that the last Thursday
being one week from his first complaint between five and seven of the clock
in the morning he died in very great pain. About an hour before his death
they brought our old acquaintance Miss Betsy Goldthwaite, Mrs. Cummins,
into the chamber and asked him if he would speak to her. He turned away
his head said I can’t which were the last words he ever spoke after which his
Philistines desired of Mrs. Cummins that they might open him. She said she
could not think of it but they must do as they would do as they would, upon
which they opened him and found his call was gone that his liver began to
petrified occasioned by a stone they found. I heard in his liver for square
about the business of the top of your thumb which stone also turned the
nutriment into a wrong channel for it that occasioned those violent collects
he had that finally proved mortal to him.
It is now dinnertime as I am going this afternoon to his funeral. Think it
best to conclude my letter that it may not miss this post. Mr. Greenleaf
the high Sheriff has also desired my company to attend his father’s funeral
tomorrow afternoon and as I know you can read any of my [-] she’ll only
say that the trouble it may give you is repaid in the time admitting of my
110
writing the more my love to your united family concludes me your loving
brother Henry Dering
PS Mr. Cummins at his death had been married to his present widow but
five weeks or not seven weeks and was to have reached the lecture in his
proper turn at the Old Brick the day he died.
• David Chesebrough saw himself as owning half the farm at Sylvester Manor as opposed to owning 50% of the whole. It
was an interesting perspective in this instance, although he eventually will see Thomas in the same light as Mr. Fanning, as
a tenant who owes him rent and produce.
Book: 2
Number: 164
Date: 9/6/1763
To: Thomas Dering
From:
David Chesebrough
Place: Newport
Newport 6 September 1763
Sir
I received yours of the 20th and 22nd with estimate of [-] new but old, stay
and the ten stacks of hay after 10 years used for nothing is come to little [-]
the notion of being damaged this. I am pretty sure of that [-] good when
Tom Fanning first did it. What is become of the 10 [-] of Indian corn to
receive when the lease commands and was to be at in like good order whose
[-] you are. Sensible that [-] took the farm upon the same conditions that
Tom had it and it was of great neglect that no writings were passed. I feel
the [-] effects of it having never received one penny of him for two years past
save the falling three [---] cost and I am now obliged to get my nephew Mr.
Mumford to go over and settle and receive my money of him or commence
an action against him in which case I must [-] your [-] to Mr. Mumford
being [--] the whole affair I suppose have scared yourself. His late letters
are so stuffed with low sensibility and abuse that they are scarce intelligible
specimens of which Mr. Mumford carries with him.
You may humor the last task we had about your hiring my part of farm
to which I was not very [--] I told you I would give you 100 pounds a
year for your part and consequently I [-] 100 pounds for mine in case you
chose to have the whole to which you were replied you would take it under
consideration. I could let it since favor of times at that rate and to go best of
demands therefore think reasonable that [-] me 10 especially as considerable
has been laid out in former and since the first lease and wheat and all
produce since that has reason I believed near 50 [--] so that it is now cheaper
than at first.
In Connecticut we take a note at the beginning of the year for the rent
agreed upon to be paid at the expiration of the year which I think is a good
way and which I wish I had done with Fanning. I was greatly mistaken in
the man. My great opinion of him and confidence in him has left me under
disadvantage. Miss Pendleton Casey cord of wood which you’ll be pleased
to get ready for the time you propose but would be more agreeable to have
it the last of the month . This is good of God we are all well. My daughter is
gone to Boston your three weeks for us is about of respect and I return some
to you and [----] David Chesebrough
• Was Hepzi slave trading between friends? She had a particular interest in Comus, probably because she knew him when
she lived in the Dering’s household in Boston.
Book: 2
111
Number: 163
Date: 9/12/1763
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Edwards
Place: Boston
Book: 2
Number: 151
Date: 10/10/1763
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Edwards
Place: Boston
Boston September 12
Dear Cousin
I see you had not received my letters when you wrote for you say nothing
about the children’s books. I hope they were pleased with them. I suppose
my letter will reach you before this does that has got the account of poor
Mr. Cummings death. As to Comus Mr. Storer thinks not to have him. Mr.
Hughes will give you 500 or 100 and his boy Palmy. I shall enclose a piece
of paper that he gave me. So you must let us have an answer as soon as you
can. Old Mrs. Pitts is dead. This morning Butter is gone off with one of Mr.
Broadstreet’s daughters to Hampton. The old lady with several others is gone
posthaste in pursuit of them. How they make out shall let you know in my
next. Old geezer Kitchen is dead. I reckon it will be next to the loss of his
wife that is to matter. I am expecting Mr. Thomas and wife up every day. I do
not think of anything remarkable since I wrote you last.
Mrs. Edwards ye 10th
Dear Cousin
Have received two letters from you and am very glad to find you have your
health so much better then you had. You say your long illness was because
of the disagreeable subjects that you had to write about of your one family
and some of them disagreeable enough. I wish I could see you. If it was but
one half hour I should say what I can’t write to you so well. What if you
should try to make a short visit to us? Your friends all want to see you. You
say you sometimes look in upon me through the little window to come and
really see me and how I live. You see it is our neighbor Walker that is dead.
Mrs. Walker is alive and as well as ever I knew her to be. She has made John
Hancock her executor and as John died without a will she has made her will
and given his Basbeard all the estate. There was found of vast site of money
quite lastly as to her loss and them things. I believe the artful Mrs. Thayer
will have. I go to see her often. She is glad to see me but I can’t whine and lie
so I believe I shall have nothing. Mrs. Thayer appeared the other day in one
of old Mrs. Walker’s gowns and says she is to have all Mrs. Betty’s clothes
and effects.[---].
Mrs. Betty asks after you. I told her that you asked after her. She told me
to write to you that the son never came to see me before he went away. I
delivered my message to Capt. Cheavers. The old man was much pleased
that you thought of him and desired me to remember him to you and
was very glad to hear you were well. Josh Green keeps house in one of
McCarter’s buildings. Old Mrs. Green has Suckey and George with her.
Frank Green is to have his cousin Suckey. I believe Mr. Green left all with the
old lady. Mrs. Rogers goes to church, her husband to meeting. She goes with
him sometimes. Sally Oliver’s match is all off. Ned Lloyd remains a widower.
A John Cotton has got one child daughter and before this reaches you will
have another. Mrs. Famins is not married nor like to be has refused Col.
Bourne of Marblehead and this must not be spoken of but she has refused
Capt. Osborne but the family don’t care to expose him so don’t say anything
of it I pray. The old man drank tea with me yesterday as knowing Sister
Storer dined with me but that will not do. Neither the old man has had four
or five refusals and dined at Roxbury last Saturday with company at Mrs.
112
Goldthwaite’s. They all want to see you and [---] say come and see them.
As to neighbor Howe, she really seems to love you and yours. She
affectionately inquires after you and expresses how much she wants to see
you. They hear that Josh Green will come here in the spring and pay his
debts. Ned lives as he did. Cousin Storer has got three children. They all long
to see you and if it were so far off they would come and see you. What Mr.
Paxton is gone to London for I can’t tell. His sister is living and just as you
left her. Billy Clark is not married nor like to be. Jack Wentworth is Governor
of Portsmouth. I am sorry Mr. Adams has left you. Pray why don’t you keep
Mr Smith with you as he is such a fine man. Col. Atkinson and Lady is as
well as usual and so is all your friends at Portsmouth. Fanny is just gone
home. She was with her mother in the later part of her father’s illness and
tarried hither till he died and was buried. If you see the newspapers you’ll see
what a rumpus they made about Mr. Wentworth’s Caricature. Then is Molly
and her husband with your sister and Jeamy Apthorpe and wife shut up there
for fear of the officer. Mrs. Wentworth says her troubles are like soles. Sarah
Leonard is dead. She died that day week that Mr. Wentworth was buried.
What the family intends to do I can’t say. Mr. Wentworth’s illness was the
dropsy. Harry was lost last January in a storm. Jack W is in London. Tom has
got children but I can’t say how many. Mr. Wentworth went to Roxbury to
see if he could get his health.
John Turner is Mrs. Kitchen’s executor and his son has got the house and
all the land about it. I suppose Mr. Turner will pay the legalities, salaries
indisposition is a deed but he is better. Mr. Babcock is well. I have not seen
any of the ministers since I received yours. But when I do, shall tell them
what you say, but should think it is likelier for you to get one your way than
this way for we are leaning your way to get one for the South [Church] one
Mr. Blair. I should think that you might get some friend of Mr. Dering to
take care of your family while you just look on us.
You say nothing of Comus. I hope he behaves well.
Mr. Edwards and I am very much obliged to you for your invitation but I
fear shall never see Shelter Island. I will inquire about Mr. Hamping of your
handkerchief and let you know but I am loath to miss this opportunity to. I
have wrote. Tell Mrs. Dering I have not time to write to her. Tell Sylvester I
talk and think of him and wish he was near me. If I live shall write you more
of Wentworth’s affairs. If the man don’t go out of town tomorrow shall write
more. Remember me to the family. Mrs. Thomas has got a daughter Betty.
Yours H Edwards
Book: 2
Number: 166
Date: 11/9/1763
To: Thomas Dering
From: Nathaniel Perkins
Place: Boston
BACK: Nathaniel Perkins received in full for a balance due him from the
estate of Henry Dering Esq. deceased the 9 November 1763 for £9..81.
FRONT: Received Boston November 9, 1763 of Thomas Dering Esq. by the
hand of his brother Henry Dering the sum of 9 pounds eight shillings lawful
money [-] in for my bill from medicine and attendance of his father Henry
Dering Esq. deceased and another against the estate of said deceased just for
113
medicine and attendance of his children Sarah and Henry Dering during
their minority the former of which bills was 5 pounds six shillings and the
latter four pounds two shillings which making the sum above mentioned is in
full of all demands on said deceased estate to this day
Nathaniel Perkins
9..8/
• The Revolutionary War began with urban skirmishes in Boston in 1763 when the mob tore the Governor’s house down so
interestingly described in Hepzi’s letter.
Book: 2
Number: 167
Date: 11/6/1763
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Edwards
Place: Boston
Boston December ye 6th
Dear Cousin
It is so long since I heard from you that I did not know whether you intended
it to write again. I was very much disappointed in not having a line from
you by Mrs. Chesebrough had she let me know when she went I should have
wrote by her. When this will reach you I can’t tell. I send it to Newport. I am
sorry to find you so much out of health. I think it would do you a great deal
of good to come and see your Boston friends for they all want to see you.
I hope you will try it next spring if we live till then and bring the dear boy
[Sylvester] with you. Mrs. Chesebrough writes me he is not so handsome as
he was but that is no matter if he is a good boy.
Really we have had dreadful times with us such as my eyes never be held as
the night was that the Lieutenant Governor’s house was pulled down. Such
shocking as it was and is you never see he lets it stand for a monument. I
wish I could relate the whole of it to you but that I can’t without, I could see
you. But to see the insolent devils hopping along the street from one house
to another and saying of them flat almost to the ground. When they were
at work on Mr. Storey’s house as it was near I could hear the glass crack
and fly here the axes at work and having one and another coming in at the
same time and telling me that the Governor’s house was almost down to the
ground. I felt as if I had no strength left in me. Aware of their fury would
and I could not tell. A night indeed that makes me tremble to think of it to
see whole families turned out of doors and told to escape for their lives four
at Capt. Hollaway’s the maid prayed them to let her take the children out
of bed. Their answer was damn her. The children to the Governor fled to
Mr. Mather’s and they heard he was there and they went and demanded
him of Mr. Mather. So he first to go through the garden and tarry in an old
woman’s house and hid or I believe they would have killed him. Must not this
be dreadful. When you think this was not the savages of the Lord but your
neighbors your townsmen and pretended friends.
But to see the ladies clothes dragged in the gutter. Mrs. Sandford’s rich
silks tore all up the bodies of the sacks [-] of with an ax from the tails her
watch sort and her money all gone had you I can the poor Governor the
next morning comes up to adjourn the court for it was the night before the
court was to set. He had borrowed things to cover him. He had cloth colored
greatcoat on him he made a speech in the court and then adjourned them till
he could get things to appear in and they might well think his mind was not
fit to transact business. But I could fill a volume about it but I have not time.
114
The Governor is going home for which I am very sorry. We are still in a
deplorable foundation for business stagnates and people uneasy and like to
be so till we can hear from England. We had the famous Pope day that ever
you see the North and South united there was no disturbance at all in the
evening. Everything was carried on with the greatest order. One of the head
of the mob was the Capt. and they had been so disorderly before that they
were going to make up for it. But I must not say no more about this.
Old Mr. Brindley is dead and now George and Molly Wentworth is married
and live at Mr. Wentworth’s. Katey Knight is dead and Johnny is a widower.
Jack Athorpe is published to Miss Greenleaf. Jack Nelson’s Mrs. that was
Deacon Barrett’s son though widower with one child is making his addresses
to Sally Oliver and it is like to be a match. Judge Oliver’s son to Miss Sally
Hutchinson. Mrs. Gold to Matt Rogers and has got a charming husband
everybody says. Poor Harry [Thomas’s brother Henry] has been down
to Halifax. I believe he got something by it. He was gone a month is now
returned. Left Mr. Monk and family well. [Thomas’s and Henry’s sister
Anne’s family.] He is behind the meetinghouse yet with that creature a
second Betty cut he talks of going to Jamaica. Seamy Apthorpe is as bad as
ever.
All Mrs. Green thanks you for thinking of her. Wonders you don’t write
to her. Sally Oliver says that you and Mrs. Dering must come to wedding.
Polly says that she will put off the wedding if you will come in the Spring. A
Thanksgiving Day M. W appeared bride. Col. Jackson sends his love to you
and says that he has a great regard for his cousin Tom. Mrs. Winslow is in
town. Says that she expects a letter from you. Mr. Goldthwaite’s family send
their regards to you today. Mrs. Franklin’s family and indeed does all your
friends and wants to see you. I shall send this letter to Col. Saltonstall. His
lady is a relation of Mr. Edwards and they were to see us this summer and
said that they would forward my letters if I would direct them to him..... This
goes to Newport by Mr. Red but I must finish with my best regards to you
and am yours as ever Hepzi Edwards. May remember me to Mr. Edwards ...
• In 1764, the British Parliament passed the Sugar Act, which was designed to raise revenue from the colonists. They also
passed another Currency Act. Reaction in the colonies was immediate. Boston lawyer James Otis published his views on
taxation without representation, and Boston tradesmen boycotted British goods. A year later the British Parliament passed
the Stamp Act and the Quartering Act. The new tax was imposed on all American colonists and required them to pay a tax
on every piece of printed paper they used. Ship’s papers, legal documents, licenses, newspapers, other publications, and even
playing cards were taxed. The colonists were also required to accept British soldiers into their homes. Patrick Henry presented
seven resolutions to the Virginia House of Burgesses, the Sons of Liberty formed in many colonial towns, and citizens rioted
against the Stamp Act.
Book: 2
Number: 168
Date: 2/11/1764
To: Thomas Dering
From: Lane & Booth
Place: London
Messrs Thomas and Henry Dering
London 11th of February 1764
Gentlemen
Since our last of 25 October by Jarvis with duplicate by Bacchus we are
not favored with any from you, which will occasion brevity. The present
serving only to acquaint you that we have not been able to receive payment
115
of your bill on Mr. Hugh Rose for £656.1.10 not withstanding his repeated
promises to remit in a sufficient sum to pay the bill with interest and charges
are fearful of arresting him, for if we did it would infallibly break him up.
Have made a pretty strict inquiry into his circumstances by those who are
not unacquainted with him and have the greatest reason to think he is good
at bottom and with a little indulgence may make payment of his debt.
However, that you may not love the opportunity of attaching any effects he
may have in your hands, or others at your place we enclose you a protest for
non-payment of the bill and debit you for the cost they are of 8/9 we do not
send the accepted bill, as doubtless you have another of the same and that
will do as well in the interim. We shall continue our best endeavors to get the
money from Mr. Rose and on the receipt thereof give you the earliest notice
to withdraw any attachment you may have made on his effects. We are with
best respects gentlemen your most humble servants Lane and Booth
• A virulent epidemic of smallpox hit Boston in early 1764 and it brought not only the physical health but also economic
welfare of the city to its knees. If one had a place to escape to one did.
Book: 2
Number: 169
Date: 2/13/1764
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Edwards
Place: Boston
Boston February ye 13
Dear Cousin
I was very glad to hear from you though very sorry to hear of your troubles
and the loss of your Negro woman. I am very glad Mr. Whitefield has been
to see you. I was in hopes he would be the bearer of my letter for I heard he
was to be near you if not on your Island. He is not arrived yet at Boston and
when he comes I am afraid I shall not be able to hear him for I have kept
house for this month for fear of the smallpox. It can be easily stopped but
your Guilson Barneard and other enoculating doctors and come to town
and the people seem bewitched to have it spread and if so I fear I shan’t hear
the dear good man.
As to your books Harry sold them to Gov. surely. He has wrote you to or
three times about them. Mr. Cummings left all to his wife only something to
his father. She is looked on as a fortune. She is not like to increase. Yesterday
Sam Savage’s wife died, sad only in travel. I have not wrote you this winter
because I thought that my letters would never get to you. If the smallpox
does not spread I will write you more largely soon for I am getting ready to
leave my family and have hardly time to write you now.
Ned Green is shut up and has been some time on Joe’s account. I could
enlarge here but have not time. I have not seen any of your friends yet to
remember you to them. Mrs. Oliver has been out of town this month for fear
of the smallpox. Mr. Foxcroft preaches better than ever. The general court
has been setting at Cambridge. They have made such fires that they have
burnt down the old college and all the library and appreciations a great loss
indeed. But you will hear more of it in the newspapers. Mr. Pemberton dined
with me last Thursday and we talked a great deal about you. He says he loves
you and said many kind things of you. Your friends all inquire after you.
Miss Susey Hubbard sends her regards to you and Mrs. Dering. We are
trying to make an inoculating hospital of Point Shirley but the people can’t
116
agree about it so I can’t tell how it will be but I hope it will be so and then we
shall not have this trouble of moving. If I can will write a few lines to Mrs.
Dering. Tell Sylvester I long to see him and he must come with you and see
me this summer.
If the smallpox don’t spread our family is pretty well . But Mrs. Gooch, she,
you know, is often complaining. Mr. Wentworth has been so ill with the gout
in his stomach that for two days the doctors thought he would die but he has
got well again. Andrew Phillips is a losing about in town. Gill is quite mad at
him. I can’t think of anything remarkable so shall finish with my regards to
Mr. Adams and Mrs. Dering. Kiss Sylvester. Mr. Edwards sends his regards
to Mr. Adams you and Mrs. Dering, which includes me yours affectionately
Hepzi Edwards. Mr. Joseph Belknap sends compliments to you and wishes
Mr. Adams would come and preach.
• Thomas Dering was reported to be a pious man and he was active not only in the local church but also a great prosthetizer
on the entire East End. Mr. Adams was visiting the Dering’s at this time.
Book: 2
Number: 170
Date: 2/25/1764
To: Thomas Dering
From: James Brown
Place: Bridgehampton
Bridge-Hampton February 25, 1764
Dear Sir
I intended by the first opportunity to inform you that we expect to attend
the sacrament of the Lord’s supper: by the will of God he meant Lord’s
day after tomorrow and accordingly have with pleasure entertained hopes
of seeing you here upon that occasion. But my joy on this account is turned
into sorrow: By a rumor that I have heard that you are sick: though I have no
thought of intelligence; I [-] to know. May God be with you not forget you in
body [-] you be able tabernacle and restore health if it be his will. May the
Lord of Grace be with you.[-]
May the Holy Ghost comfort you. That you may enjoy confessions and that
peace which comes home God and be resigned to his Sovereign Will. I hear
Dr. White is not well in [-] as he was when he left my house but we have
reason to believe he is happy sick or in health living or dying. My sincere
regards to Mrs. Dering and Mr. Adams. May God protect you children and
[-] of we shall never eat bread together or see each other more in the world.
I hope we shall meet in a better and feast together at the marriage supper
of the Lamb. May God by his Grace fit us more and more for the [-] and
enjoyment of [-] which is the fire and prayer of your sincere and affectionate
friend in the bonds of infinite love. My wife sends with friendly regards to
you and yours, James Brown
Book: 2
Number: 172
Date: 4/17/1764
To: Thomas Dering
From:
Margaret Chesebrough
Place: Newport
Newport April 17
Dear brother
My sister’s letter relieved my mind from great anxiety: it gave me great
satisfaction. I desire to bless God for his great goodness in restoring you to so
good state of health. And that he is lifting up of the light of his countenance
upon you and giving so much peace and joy in believing. This is unspeakable
favor and the greatest support under all trials and troubles. I don’t know but
you will think me cool that I so much desire that you should continue in a
world of sin and sorrow. I could not help being greatly concerned for my own
117
sake for the sake of my dear sister and your dear children and I hope for the
sake of religion.
I was ready to fear that poor Shelter Island was to be again without the
means of grace. What great things do I hear from East Hampton. I saw a
copy of a letter from Mr. Buell giving most extraordinary accounts of a great
work going on in that town. O if this be a work of God as I hope it is that
it may be universal. I hear that there is a great concern on the minds of the
people at Providence and soon they hope saving me brought hope to Christ.
O that we in this place may not be passed by. Indeed we are high-handed
sinners and it would be just with God to cast us off and to give up to hardness
of heart and blindness of mind. But I hope and believe that is seeing God’s
children in this place. Which and earnestly desirous of the out pouring of
God’s Spirit on this people.
O that their prayers may be answered if it be God’s will. I wrote to my sister
by Mr. Abraham and sent four shirts and two pair of [-] sleeves and two pair
of mitts for Betsy which I hope she has received. My love to her and the dear
children and to Mr. Adams if he is with you. I pray let me hear from you
often. Mr. Mumford has told me that he will take care and [-] letter. I must
conclude with the greatest affection your sister Margaret Chesborough
PS This a bad [-] pay excuses it. Mrs. Oliver had had small pox by
inoculation and had it favorably.
• Because of the smallpox, Hepzi fled to her cousin Sarah Thomas’s house in Marshfield.
Book: 2
Number: 171
Date: 4/18/1764
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Edwards
Place: Marshfield
Marshfield April 18
Dear cousin
I have been with Mrs. Thomas ever since 8 March to escape the smallpox
and find it has been very favorable. Hardly any in the enoculate way has
died with it. I was last week over to Kingstown to old Mr. Sievers funeral.
The old lady is a widow again and trips as if she intended to have another
husband. There I see Mrs. Watson who informed me that Mrs. Oliver and
Miss Sanford were gone in to take the distemper as was Mrs. Fluker and Mrs.
Bode Wayne and a number of other ladies.
Mr. Edwards writes me that Parson Adams of Roxbury is gone to the Castle
to leave it. Mrs. Gold was one of the first class that was inoculated and they
thought she would have died. The doctors said they could do no more for her
that they would give her on the vomit though they expected she would die
in the working of it but blessed be God she is got well of it. I have not heard
from Boston this fortnight but the last letters I had from there they wrote me
that Dr. Lloyd had like to fall down cellar and in saving himself he broke his
little finger off and hurt himself so that it raised a fever on him that his life
was despaired of. I long to hear how he is. I fear to hope he is better but what
I shall hear and can’t tell.
Mr. Whitefield arrived at Mr. Smith’s about a fortnight before I left Boston.
Mr. Edwards Harry Dering and I went to see him and ask after you. He gave
118
but a poor account of you as to your health. He says it will not suit you to
live at Shelter Island. You’ll find more health in Boston. That retired life will
not suit you. But he says Mrs. Dering grows as fat and hearty as can be but
no wonder for she was born and bred there. These were is own words. Now
come and see us in the fall and bring Sylvester with you. It may be you will
get health by it. Mr. Adams will stay with Mrs. Dering. I want to see you very
much. I answered your last letter before I left Boston and Mrs. Dering but I
don’t find that you have wrote me since.
I have received a letter from Mrs. Chesebrough since I have been here
where she tells me that she expects Mrs. Grant and family upon the spring.
Notwithstanding I had kept house for a month for fear of the smallpox I
went twice to hear Mr. Whitefield preach at Dr. [-] which was all the times
that they would let him preach for fear of spreading the distemper. He is now
gone in East ward to Portsmouth and along that way I hear they expect him
at Plymouth if so I hope to hear him there if not in Boston. I hope as they
intend to cleanse the town after the 20th of this month which is but two days
to it. I hope if I should live I shall go home by the last of May. I never was so
uneasy from home in my life as I am now.
Johnny Cotton’s wife would have stayed and had the distemper but she was
with child so she went to stay at Judge Russell’s for old Mrs. Gerish is dead
that kept with him this letter is to go by Parson Brown who has an invitation
at some part of Long Island and tells me that he intends to go to your Island
to see you. Poor man I wish he may do well with all my heart. Remember
me to Mrs. Dering and tell her that I will write her if I live to get to Boston.
Pray my regards to Mr. Adams tell him he had better come and make me a
visit. Tell Sylvester I often think of him and long to see him. I am expecting
to hear from Boston every day and as Mr. Brown tells me he shan’t go till
Monday I will leave off and add if I hear anything further. I desire you would
let me hear from you soon.
I had forgot to tell you that some wicked creatures one night hang Mr.
Whitefield in effigy on the gallows his worst enemies said it was a low thing
and wishes who ever did it might be found out. I wonder what hurt they
think they can do the dear good man. I wonder they are not tired of their
folly but the Devil is disturbed and no wonder where his kingdom shakes. Ye
21 Solomon Novice has been to see us and says that Dr. Lloyd is better and
that Mrs. Oliver and the other ladies are not gone in to take the distemper
for the inoculation is not so successful as it was. The doctors have had so
much of the business that they grow careless and people have it very bad or
die with it. Molly Pemberton died with it before I came out of town. It never
was known how she catch it as she had kept her chamber and bed for some
time before.
As to Katy Gooch, she is not married yet nor I don’t know whether she ever
will to Ned Lloyd for the match has been off once and now is on again. All
I can say is that she is a Foolish girl. I wish if she was married or something
else for I think that she wants somebody to take care of her but as to who
has had and how they have had the smallpox and the truth of these things
119
you must wait till I write you from Boston. I don’t remember. I have anything
remarkable to more to write you as I have not had any letter this fortnight
from Mr. Edwards. [-] shall finish you as ever at command Hepzi Edwards
Book: 2
Number: 174
Date: 4/21/1764
To: Thomas Dering
From: Nat Thomas
Place: Marshfield
Marshfield 21st of April 1764
Dear Sir
So favorable an opportunity presenting was reminded of my often [-] though
as often resolved to reform and now with sincerity I salute you and lady
with peace, and every concomitant of virtues the happy product of rural [-].
Wish you’d let me know your improvements and various [-] and whether
agriculture is agreeable; disappointments are the appendage of human life
and end they but work the effects designed happy with the consequences
be. We had a most violent storm the night before last, which has done vast
damages in the Seaports, all along this coast, and among the rest. I’m no
small sufferer for it carried away my Dyke and the land which is mostly
clover is now overflowed with salt water, but hope it will be gone of time
enough to repair the breach before it destroys the same. Was plowed for
attempt the same, which now damps my views however I submitted and now
this is by Mr. Brown our once Minister now invited to your neighborhood. I
wish him well. We use him as a friend though not our Minister and now my
best regards attend you and yours with wishing you an attainment of all your
wishes concludes my your affectionate brother Ray Thomas
Book: 2
Number: 175
Date: 4/28/1764
To: Thomas Dering
From: George Brinley
Place: Boston
Received Boston April 28, 1764 of Thomas Dering Esq. by the hand of his
brother Henry Dering 14 pounds 16 shillings and 10 pence lawful money in
full for a balance due from the estate of Henry Dering Esq. deceased to his
Excellency Benning Wentworth Esq. by order of his excellency afore said for
Samuel Wentworth Esq. George Brinley
£14.16.10 lmny [legal money New York]
Book: 2
Number: 173
Date: 4/29/1764
To: Thomas Dering
From: Sarah Thomas
Place: Marshfield
Marshfield April 29, 1764
Sir
Had not been for the spreading of the smallpox in Boston which has
prevented almost all communication I should have wrote you before this
time, but with pleasure embrace this opportunity by our late parson who
is going to preach at Long Island upon trials and it is thought he will settle
amongst them. We are at present destitute and so are like to remain.
I fear for there seems to be but very few candidates, and what we have had
appear to be quite infants – – by no means fit to take so solemn a charge
upon them. It gave me a great deal of trouble for you when I read the
melancholy state your family had been in.
I am heartily sorry for the loss you met with in your Negro woman, but
rejoice it was not one of your little ones, and that you yourself was recovered
from that terrible disorder. I think it worthwhile to inquire whether your
doctors use the bark in that distemper. For Dr. Stockbridge tells me it is but
lately practiced but since it has been used there is no more danger in the
120
throat distemper then in any other disorder that is common. If so I think it is
a pity all the doctors do not.
I have Mrs. Edwards with me while she is obliged vanished the town who
has been writing you and so suppose it needless to say what we have on our
Boston friends, shall only add that [-] the smallpox very favorably. He had
about in his face and between 30 and 40 in his body [-] and inoculated a
week after Mrs. Gold and was to go and see her before she could walk her
room creature. She was very ill.
Mrs. Wentworth [-] her doctor said he could do no more for but give her a
vomit, which he very much feared would die in the working of. But it pleased
bless the means and the last I heard was like to do well had a fine stomach
about her chamber. [-] I sincerely wish ones was as well overhead as Nat is.
For Mrs. Edwards you wrote her you designed they should take it [-] if so I
pray God to be with them, and carry through it.
Mr. Thomas is now out with the plow [-] for his hemp seed, but proposes to
write you opportunity – – I am still upon a strict [-] for my health take pills
every two or three [-] though very far from well. Think I may say the pain in
my stomach is something better but never expect to enjoy my health again
in the world. I pray God prepare me to leave it and then it matters not how
soon for there is nothing here but sorrow sickness trouble and pain.
I know no one that enjoys themselves more by all account then our friend
Hepzi. She has all that hearts can wish and I am sure I heartily rejoice with
her in it – – Indeed it is no small mortification to her, the present retirement
for you know she never liked the country, but I endeavored to make it as
agreeable as Marshfield can be to her. I hope you will find out what I have
wrote in the greatest haste to get done while my little girl is sleeping.
So must conclude with my kind love to the little ones that I may write a few
lines to Mrs. Dering which I cannot omit by so good an opportunity and as
I know not when I shall have another. I remain with my best wishes for you
and your affectionate sister Sarah Thomas
• The religious sentiment of the time was exquisitely expressed in this letter from Joseph Belknap to Thomas.
Book: 2
Number: 177
Date: 5/18/1764
To: Thomas Dering
From: Joseph Belknap
Place: Boston
Boston May 18, 1764
Sir
I have received your letters and the skins you sent. The wolf skins are worth
to me /8 legal money per skin; 12 wool skins at 20-- £1 ...the pelts are worth
nothing. I have sent you the skins you send for in proportion to the value of
the wolf skins as well as I could viz. consistent with of .....
1 purple calf skin £ . .. 7 ..
1 small broken Gallo ditto for children’s shoes. .. 2 .. 8
1 pair of brown gloves . .. 2 .. 5
3 wash leather skins for linings . .. 4 .. .
2 colored sheep skins . .. 4 .. .
£ 1..0..1
121
I could not get a red skin anywhere so send the yellow one at a small price
––
I am very glad to hear from you and should rejoice to see you. We have had
the smallpox in town ever since December last. It is a very dark and cloudy
time with us but the name of God is a strong tower of safety and sufficiency.
There has been much mercy mixed with this judgment. Thousands have
recovered and comparatively few died. Trade is much stagnated but I hope
our prayers meet at the same throne of grace. Let that trade go on and other
things will do well enough. Feed upon the gospel grace every day and pray
for me that I may do so too.
May the uncertainties here below be as a [-] in our sides to our motion
toward the land of rest and the Lord help us among all other business here to
mind eternity to be always ready that when ever he shall summon us home
by death it may not be an uncomfortable surprise to us but that we may die
in peace and sleep in Jesus.
The Rev. Whitefield is here preaches twice a week with great zeal. He is yet
as he used to be a lover of souls by the blessing of God I hope will do much
good among us, but complains very much of our deadness and not without
cause. I and my wife present our hardy respects to you and spouse and I
remain very assured friend Joseph Belknap
PS Mrs. Edwards is at Marshfield on account of the small pox here -- Mr.
Edwards and I were there to see her the beginning of this month and were
kindly entertained by your brother and sister Thomas who are well JB
Book: 2
Number: 176
Date: 5/24/1764
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Edwards
Place: Marshfield
Marshfield May ye 24st
Dear Cousin
I received yours which gave me great pleasure to find that you were better
for all I had heard that you were unwell and had a bad eye. Mr. Edwards
had [-] me and Sally and I had been very much concerned about you. I
suppose you have received my letter by Mr. Brown and so know that I am at
Marshfield. I am quite obliged to you for your invitation but I believe I shall
never see Shelter Island but hope to see you with your son this fall. I thank
you kindly for your beef and mutton. I hope in a little time now to go home
and partake of it. Mr. Edwards writes me that he has received it.
The dear Mr. Whitefield is preaching at Boston twice a week and I can’t hear
him. I heard him twice before I left Boston. Mr. Edwards wrote me that the
dear man had a fit last week that they thought he would have died but he
is better. The small pox is very mortal now in the natural way. Mrs. Oliver
and Ms. Sanford has had it and what they call favorable but Mr. William R
Parson says he believes Mrs. Oliver had enough of it. The inoculations has
been very successful. Molly Boardman was inoculated and is dead so was our
neighbor Tory. She is lamented by all that knew her.
Antis Greenleaf that was and Richard Clark’s daughter that married Barrett
Booth died very sudden. Old Lady Phillips is dead. Parson Bliss is dead after
122
Letter #157, from Hepzi Edwards in Boston to Thomas Dering on June 28, 1765.
123
seeing and hearing Mr. W. I hear Mr. W said that brother Bliss would be in
heaven before Christmas. Mrs. Gooch was with Molly till she died but the
particulars you must wait for till I get to Boston. Thomas Foxcroft is dead.
He died at the North End. His father was with him and I hear he said that he
had more comfort in his death then in his life for he was quite sensible of the
folly of his past life.
As to Betsy’s doll I should have sent it but when I received Mrs. Dering’s
letter I was just taking my flight but if I should have my life spared to go to
Boston I will write Mrs. Dering. I hear they are clearing the town as fast as
they can. I am sorry that I can’t see Capt. Bailey as it is so seldom that I can
get an opportunity to send anything to you.
Mrs. Storer nor Sucky Green does not take the distemper I hear. Pray is
Sylvester to have it this summer as you talked of. I wish he had had it and it
was well over with him, a dear soul. I long to see him.
As to the books you wrote me about Harry says that he has wrote you about
them two or three times. I really forget what he told me that he got for them
but it was not much. But I will write to him to let you know I offered them to
gentlemen since and learning he told me they were worth more than I should
ever get for them for he knew a minister that bought them at London for a
dollar and then they were of no use to him only to stand in his study.
I suppose Mrs. Grant with her family is at Newport. Mrs. Chesebrough
wrote to me in March that she expected her this spring. This is a changeable
world that we live in. Happy day that have are prepared for another. Sally
sends her love to you. Says she wrote you by Mr. Brown and hopes to see
you this fall. She is very glad to hear you are better. Pray my regards to Mr.
Adams. Tell him I hope to see him before winter. I think he may make his
Boston friends upset. Remember me to Mrs. Dering. Kiss Sylvester. Your
affectionate Hepzi Edwards
I suppose you have heard of Mrs. Wheatright’s death. Poor Nat is a widower.
Gemmy Apthorp acts as if he was possessed with an evil spirit. Maid Catey
is going away and he has been gone a week after her. It seems he kept her for
a while in the house. His poor wife is to be pitied, but I can’t write you one
half about him now but it seems the town has been in an uproar about him.
They have kept it a secret as long as they can and now the world knows all or
rather not have but when I write you again I hope shall be when I can write
more particular.
• Henry remained in Boston.
Book: 2
Number: 178, 179, & 180
Date: 5/26/1764
To: Thomas Dering
From: Henry Dering
Place: Boston
124
Boston May 26, 1764
Dear Brother
Yours of 11 April last by Capt. Bailey I duly received. And in reply thereto
in course I received your deed for Mr. Gould and desire you to write to Mr.
Goldthwaite to deliver me up the mortgage I gave you for your dwelling
home in Queen Street. In the course of the coming week I will get out the
account of Dr. Perkins or rather what is charged you did him and send you
by post at which time shall send you Mr. Grafton’s account for Pepin.
Mrs. Clapham has not for some time past asked me about that account.
However I will send you the particulars in my next with Grafton’s. Have
never yet heard anything of Jack. I suppose the smallpox is he thinks a
sufficient excuse for not coming to me. I shall in a very short time make it my
business to go to him and see into the cause of this long silence.
You mentioning the expense of hiring being grade with you lead me to
purchase a female servant for you of Mr. Wentworth, which had come over
in his brigantine from Newcastle in England. She is a white woman about
28 years old very strong willing and handy at any work. I am a judge of but
what according to her own account she has been most conversant with in
that way has been farming business. She says she understands making butter
and cheese taking care of cattle and reaping better than anything else. I
believe I should have ventured to have sent her to you by Capt. Bailey at this
time were it not for the following reasons. She does not know and indeed
I might speak more absolutely as she seems to be pretty fully convinced in
herself that she has not had the smallpox and I am quite as fully convinced
that she at this instant has the itch as she is now [-] therefore at my house.
These two reasons joined with my not knowing but you may be supplied at
this time with some one for the business.
I’ve mentioned I think it’s sufficient Mr. Wentworth had eight or 10 I forget
which came over in his vessel. I had the first choice and agreed to give him
what they fetched on an average he asked me 10 pounds lawful money for
four years. All I shall say more on this affair is that if you have occasion for
her and let me know it I shall send her to you by the first opportunity if I can
add that I make her willing to go. She seemed to be very willing to go when
I first bought her and she don’t say anything yet I know of to the contrary
now but I perceive she grows very much attached to her present situation.
As to Mr. Wentworth’s mare he means only the mare. And you know Mr.
Wentworth that his things that he has to dispose of are better than anybody
else always.
I therefore think it worth your while to treat with him on so precarious an
article as horse flesh is. Mr. Shafer’s charge goes you know to the estate in
general. As to the rect. you enclosed me of Mr. Knight, it is dated before you
were born and therefore it can’t have any reference to the bond given long
after you were born according the judgment of the best gentlemen of the
law with us. I’ll send you the original (for fear of miscarriage by Bailey) by
post and that you may not lose time in making application to the gentleman
barristers of the law with you shall now incent it
December 16, 1716 of Thomas Dering Esq. 10 pounds 11 shillings twopence
for interest on a bond John Knight
Mr. Shurtless’s balance was due from the estate but as I paid it I must charge
it to you being executor. Mr. would account coming to more than you
125
could well conceive was on account of the horses detainment at Newport
longer than the usual limitation. I’ll send you a copy of the particulars of
his account by post with the rest. As to the chairs you left with me for sale
nobody on account as they said of their spreading such of clue larger than
most of the houses with us will conveniently admit did ever make me any
offer at all and when you wrote me that you imagined that one of them
chairs would fetch to stand bottom chairs for which you’d occasion I directed
a dozen of the fashionable straw bottomed chairs to be made that are at
this time made with us according to your desire sent them by the first direct
conveyance and made use of the half dozen chairs left with me in my own
house.
With respect to the smallpox with us it has been very favorable in general
by inoculation much more so than it ever was in Boston before however
some persons you will know are dead of the smallpox that were inoculated
therefore Mrs. Molly Wooden, Mrs. Torrey and child your neighbor Dolly
Hawding Ropemaht daughter deceased.
One in for it is said to have died in the natural way and those that live it
exceeding full in general. Hannah Wooden has retired into the country to
avoid the smallpox and is now corded and a going to be married to Col.
Ingersoll that used to keep Bells Tavern and now keeps Gooch’s in Kings
Street. Mr Gooch, having moved to his wife’s house at the South and
carries on near the Tallow Chandler’s business. This Mr. Ingersoll is a very
gentlemen like looking man. Mrs. Storer and Mrs. Suckey Green are where
they were last smallpox time and Mrs. Edwards is at Mrs. Thomases.
As to Mr. Whitefield I have seen him several times at Mr. Smith’s and am
very much pleased with his preaching. He preaches here twice a week to very
crowded audiences. I’ve heard him every time he has preached in Boston to
my great satisfaction. I forwarded a letter some short time since from him
for you. If you are in replying to his I should send a letter when he has left
Boston though I hear no talk of it at present. I can send it back to you again.
Am much obliged to you for the smoked meat and I delivered it according
at Tally’d. I have not yet tasted it. The brooms you sent with them are much
liked and I desire you would as soon as you can send me one or two of them
for my own use.
Your memorandum I have completed all to one wooden cane and 6 pounds
of cotton wool the former of which was not to be got in town except made
on purpose for you and you know the extraordinary charge attending that.
One I sent you the cotton wool you say if cheap no danger of infection of
the smallpox in first place is 20 Shilling’s our old cents a pound here and a
worse article to carry infections they are art in the world again. I therefore
thought it best to omit it.
Don’t be backward in writing to me for what you may have occasion on
account of not sending anything to execute your orders with they shall always
be accomplished as far as I am able with cheerfulness .... and your payment
126
for them made always at your own time possibly you may scarce think it but I
assure you it my firm sentiment that the greatest happiness I could receive in
this state of existence is to see you easy in life. The monies I’ve charged you I
have receipts for them all and in particular the money charged you paid Mr.
Bowdoin. I’ve your receipt now before me for so much received of me to pay
to him in consequence of or being so much in part for the house.
Mr. Wentworth lives in the same with regard to Mr. Oliver ... in that affair
however I refer you to my next post for a more explicit account of this
particular. I take notice of what you say about directing to Mr. Chew. Am
glad of it as I hope it will be a means of more constant communication
between us.
Young Mr. Lane is in town and he appears to me to be very open and
agreeable young man. He is 20 years old and accepting I think he appears
not to have been in company for much and not so thorough an education
and I believe not so good an intellect. He is a good deal like Jack Wentworth
who I received a letter from last week. He was well and desires to be kindly
remembered to you and Mrs. Dering and the children.
I’ve sent you two gallon Cagg of salmon of my housekeeper’s putting up,
which shall be glad if it proves good. I’ve also sent you a Nanking coat I
made for myself last summer but I’ve grown so fat it won’t come near me
now. It will do to make Sylvester a summer coat to whom give my love. I
advise you to take out the Brown Holland lining as its difficult to wash the
coat with it in and it’s lighter and better on all accounts without it.
I’ve sent you two parcels of linens the reason of which was that had but 20
yards of linen about the price you mentioned you wanted some and knowing
you bane of linen I thought it would be best to send you enough to make
eight shirts and therefore appropriated part of another piece near the value
as any I had which I thought you might use for sleeves to your shirts being a
little though but little finer and my boys big mistake sold it to somebody I had
dealings with.
I therefore went to them and got it back again although some of it was
washed and some both washed and ironed. The vessel being awaiting must
though abruptly conclude with my regards to Mrs. Dering Mr. Adams the
children. Your friend and brother Henry Dering
Book: 2
Number: 182
Date: 6/2/1764
To: Thomas Dering
From: Joseph Edwards
Place: Boston
Dear Sir
Mrs. Edwards wrote me from Marshfield to inquire of your brother, which
he sold a set of books for you left. She told me he sold them for 5 pounds
sterling. I am glad to hear you are better in health pray God to confirm it my
best regards to you and Mrs. Dering and sincerely yours
Jos Edwards
Boston June 2, 1764
• Before Thomas left Boston, he sold his house, which was reputed to be quite grand, to Mr. Gold who eventually defaulted
127
and when his creditors attempted toNew
attachLondon
the house,June
they19,
found
1764
no deed. More financial trouble for Thomas?
Book: 2
Dear Sir
Number: 181
I write this, not knowing, but waiting for a proper conveyance. I believe
Date: 6/19/1764
indeed you rather expect (perhaps choose) my personal precedents than
To: Thomas Dering
a letter; but so it is, that I am not as yet in a readiness to return. However
From: William Adams
I propose it as soon as I can with any conveniency; I even wish that I had
Place: New London
tarried with you some time longer since it would have made little or no
difference in the circumstances of my affairs. I have heard nothing directly
from you since I paid hither and beg the favor of allowing or two by the first
good hand. Soon after I came over Mr. Chesebrough was so kind as to call
upon me one afternoon. At his desire I accompanied him to Mr. Mumfords
at Groton where I tarried the night. He made some few and general inquiries
concerning you and yours; I was in a whole of some discourse with him
before we parted, with [-] two thick of the difficulties subsisting between him
and you, but Godliness a company prevented it in the evening and he set out
early next morning for Stonington.
The principal topic of discourse was the affair with Mr. Fanning, of whose
conduct he makes them a most tragical complaint. One day last week Mr.
Whitfield passed through this town on his way to New York and unhappily I
missed the sight of him. The day before he preached at Groton about 10 in
the morning, whither he came the evening before. I should have endeavored
to have attended his lecture, but I timely [-] towards evening as I was walking
into town I met a Wright [-] loft out of it, I stopped and spoke a few words
with him.
He told me as I understood him that he had been to procure a vessel to
carry them to New York and I bless myself of having some considerable
opportunity of being with them before they went from here; but it seems
Mr. Wright had been to engage a proper boat to carry ninth carriage and
equipage across the ferry. The next morning accordingly they came over
about 7 o’clock tarried about an hour at Mr. Greever’s and set onward their
journey before I knew they had been in town. I had time to exchange a few
words with Mr. Wright; I particularly remember he told me one gave me no
pleasure and no doubt but it must afford you the greatest satisfaction and
refreshment if real, viz that your dear brother Henry has been so deeply
and seriously [-] by the blessing of God on Mr. Whitfield’s ministry, which
he constantly attended, as to become evidently uncharged and hopefully a
new man – – but this if to be depended upon you doubtless have or will hear
more of from some other of your friends.
Last Saturday he came to this town Mr. John Spooner and Miss Sally Oliver.
Mr. Spooner came hither on business and the young lady accompanied him
in hopes it might contribute something to her recovery from the longing state
she has been long in. She appears last the different from that fine blooming
girl I saw but more than two years ago. She tells me she sensibly perceives
herself better by her journey and I hope by this and other means it may
please God to recover and restore her to her friends. They tell me all friends
are well; this day they set out on their return homewards.
128
Mr. Spooner told me one piece of news which surprised me and the more
asked from what I heard from him, it may greatly affect you [-] that your
kinsman Mr. John Gold has lately failed and shut up; that the house he bought
of you was attached by Mr. Tuttle Hubbard if I remember right for 600
pounds, upon his finding no deed or mortgage upon accord to you or anyone
else. I hope and trust you have secured yourself. We have but a melancholy
prospect before us with effect the fruits of the earth by [-] of the late prosper in
the country and the present unending drought.
My brother and sisters send their compliments. My brother has had some fits
of the fever and eye but now as well (though far from well) as ever I expect to
see him. The rest of the family are through God’s goodness in comfortable
health. My best regards to Mrs. Dering and children and the rest of the family.
Suitable respects to all other friends on the Island. I should write more in
time and papers did not fail me I am your obliged friend and servant William
Adams
• Hepzi returned to Boston.
Book: 2
Number: 183
Date: 8/3/1764
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Edwards
Place: Boston
Dear Coz August ye 3rd
It is a long time since I have wrote or had a line from you. I want very much
to know how it is with you and your family. There is great overturns in our
families since you left us. I wish you would come and see this Fall. Your
friends all want to see you and I think it would give them great pleasure a
visit from you.
Cousin Storer has got a son named George. Dr. Lloyd has got a daughter
at last. Poor Mrs. Thacher died of the smallpox at Milton. She went out for
fear of it but happened to catch it. Mrs. Quincy that was Nancy Hearst catch
it at Roxbury and died with it. Dolly Hordon died soon after she had it. It
was supposed by the mockery that she took it has left many in a bad state of
health.
Aunt Osborne died at Brookline of consumption. I little thought poor
lady that when she and I run through fire and water as it was to hear Mr.
Whitfield that it was the last time I should ever see her in this world. The
captain has resigned his counselorship and I fear will find it difficult to get
another wife for there is no chariot now as to what you write about Harry’s
been affected. I see nothing of it. I wish I could write you that it was so but
Harry thinks he should be better of it was not for his neighbors for though
they have had one affliction on the back of another it does not make them
remember to keep the Sabbath day holy. I wish their afflictions may be
sanctified to them. If they are not the better for them they will be the worst.
As to Molly she is more talked of than ever. She was but I shan’t enlarge
on that now. Mr. Gould is gone off and he has been guilty of so many
bad actions that it is thought he never will see his own country again. It is
impossible for me to write you how Jeamey Apthorpe has behaved to his wife
as well as the rest of his friends so that if you were to make us a short visit it
129
would surprise you to hear all.
You must not write by the post anymore for Mr. Hubbard pays for his own
letters so it is like we shan’t hear from one another so often as we used to. Joe
Barrel is married to aunt Jackie Pine’s daughter Nancy. They were married
in the morning at Ned Greens’ home. Nobody but Ned and wife see them
married for Joe and mama had a miss though provided all for this that they
had. Sheaff has got another child yesterday.
Mr. Wentworth Samson died I think. They have repeated afflictions. Josh
Green’s wife looks to lay in every day. Harry Wentworth is gone to sea. He
behaved so bad that they were obliged to send him away. Sam is going next
month to the University in London for his education but I can’t write you the
one half but come and see this fall and be surprised.
Bring Sylvester with you for I long to see him. Tell him he must not go
without his shoes and stockings. Nurse has had the smallpox but Reed is not
gone home yet. Hannah Worden is married to one Cornel Jungerson that
was in the Army. He has got two or three children. They keep the tavern that
Jeamy Gooch kept. Mr. Hooper married them and she goes to church.
Is much pleased with her alteration in life. Mary Ann Jones after being
with child by one of her father’s meanest servants has run off with him and
is married to him. Poor Mrs. Jones her troubles are very great. She is to be
pitied. And now Phillips is run off in debt again. The last we heard of him is
that he is at Portsmouth and they will put him in jail if they will not pay his
debt and these he should lay for me. Jeamy Smith has had another bad turn.
They thought he would have died but he has got pretty well again.
Sam Wentworth is gone to London. Mrs. Thomas has got a son named John.
I have more [to say] but as Frank Green is waiting for my letter I shall finish
with the same I am yours affectionately to serve as ever Hepzi Edwards I
shall write you again in a few days
• Abigail and Alexander Grant made frequent trips from Halifax to Boston and Newport, and in Newport for her health in
the fall of 1764, she gave birth to her second daughter Abigail on September 16.
• The depth of the smallpox epidemic, apparently, had changed the fashion requirements of mourning.
Boston September ye 22nd
Book: 2
Dear Coz
Number: 184
I wrote you last week by Frank Green. He has gone to York. He is to leave
Date: 9/22/1764
my letter at New London which I hope you will get before this reaches you. I
To: Thomas Dering
think I have wrote you everything of news and I do not remember anything
From: Hepzi Edwards
remarkable but I thought I would write you by this opportunity.
Place: Boston
Did I write you that Mrs. Grant lives at Newport, keeps house there. Mr.
Brigham’s wife that was Molly Goldthwaite got a fine son. Your friends are
all well and want to see you and something expect to see you this fall. I do
assure you you will find things very much altered were you to come and see
130
us. There is more alterations in our family than I can write you but were you
and I to convince to gather I should surprise you. I wish you could come
and live in Boston again. Pray do you ever see Mr. Whitefield. I hear he is
on Long Island. If you see him tell him he must make us a visit once more
before he leaves New England. Mourning is quite out of fashion in Boston.
A black bonnet gloves handkerchief ribbon and fan for a widow crape round
the arm and a black rose on the breast and a half band and a pair of black
clothes for a widower and so desperate relations.
Mr. Gooch seems to be poorly. Mrs. Gould is at Portsmouth yet and is much
better but is not like ever to see her husband again. He has done so many bad
and conivish actions were you to hear all you would have to hardly believe
they could be true but he has sold his country for his wickedness.
Mr. Wentworth’s family that flourished the other day and none so lucky a
man as he is now broke all to pieces one gone this way and the others bad but
the flourish of the wicked is but short. But all this does not open blind eyes,
but I shall say no more. Without I could see your brother Harry dined with
me this day. He has grown very fat. Tell Mrs. Dering the next time I write I
hope it will be to let her know she has got a prize.
Mr. Franklin’s family send their respects to you as do all your friends. Mr.
Pemberton dined with me the other Thursday and said a great many kind
things of you and would come and see you if he could. I am sorry that we
are deprived of writing to you by the post. If you know of any opportunity
you must let me know. Mr. Edwards sends his regards to you and wife. We
often talk of Sylvester. I wish the little fellow was here. Tell him he must come
and see me with you which concludes me yours as ever at command Hepzi
Edwards
Remember me to Mr. Adams and tell him he must come and see me this fall.
Book: 2
Number: 185
Date: 10/1/1764
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Edwards
Place: Boston
Boston October ye 1st
Dear Cozn
I have just wrote you two letters by the way of New London one by Frank
Green and the other by Capt. Higgins so that I have nothing new to write
you only that Capt. Osborne has made his addresses to Mme. Alford and is
refused. He must not think to meet with the same successes as he did when
he was [-] and his chariot run. I think old Aunt Hubbard will do very well
for him but he wants money if he can get it. Our families remain as they
did when I wrote you last. I hope when I write you again the lottery will be
drawn and Mrs. Dering will be further successful in it. I have wrote you all
about Monday. I believe she thinks herself somebody since she has married.
The Col. Mr. Pemberton was to seeing me the other day and he was asking
after you and I gave him one of your letters to read and he says your ink is
bad and I must send you a paper of ink powder and so I will when I can
hear of an opportunity that will carry it to you. Your friends all desire to be
remembered to you. Mr. Edwards sends his respects to you and wife. Tell
Sylvester I long to see him. He must come to Boston soon. I suppose you
131
have heard from your friends at Newport that Mrs. Grant is got safe. They
are and keeps house there which concludes me yours at command as ever
Hepzi Edwards
I want to hear from you very much. Is there no vessel coming down this fall.
John Cotton has got another daughter. I just now hear of this opportunity so
shall add no more. Nick Green’s got out of his difficulties and Polly’s estate
remains hers. Ned wants a farm.
• Mr. Gold’s financial problems were leaving Henry Dering bitter.
Boston October 1st, 1764
Book: 2
Dear Brother
Number: 186
I have not heard from you this three months. I believe I hope no news will
Date: 10/1/1764
prove good news, however I daresay it is materially owing to the channel and
To: Thomas Dering
port being absolutely stopped, for which I am very sorry. I herewith enclose
From: Henry Dering
you a blank deed for that house I bought of you. In the occupation of Mr.
Place: Boston
Wentworth, which you may consult whether twill do for you to sign. Boston
being put in the acknowledgement, suppose it may make a difficulty to erace
that.
I put in Shelter Island and I should be glad if it were not disagreeable to you,
you’d extend the deed 17 feet further which will exactly take in the well of
water and pump, belonging to said estate, and particularly mention the well.
I always took it for granted you meant to, before I came to draw the deed,
when as that passageway had lain open a very long time, you [-] whether
you’d a right to give a deed of it and desired I would go with Mr. Ruggles
and take the exact measurement, which I did and drew the deed now
enclosed you.
At that time by said measurement Mr. Goldthwaite says would be best
for me and do no hurt to you, as you would act within the limits of your
power, which is to sell any part of the real estate, where it made least hurt
and in this case you would sell what was so, as would appear by the deeds
on record, given formally to my father, which would be not an irregular or
non-customary thing, deeds being given for that quantity to him, in either of
which causes you’ll pleased to write the deed over again.
My desire is that you send it to me executed as soon as you can. They need
not be retarded you know, for the reasons Mr. Gould’s was. He paid me all
for the house you sold me for him, and an account of the dispositions of
which money you have received, before, all your accounts or all you have ever
owed here is paid, but Mr. Hubbard, that I know of, and I believe I know
them all, indeed there’s Hepzi: but she chooses it should lay.
I offered her what you owed her, but she refused to take it. May I urge her
to take it, but she finally declined. I urged because I wanted you should not
have the least thing against you here and the thing I last sent you I proposed
to when you remit me therefore (which you mentioned you proposed doing
this fall) to pay Mr. Hubbard, who has lately asked me, and sent to me for
132
your money, and it would not be amiss I think for you to write him and let
him know you shall remit me at such time, as you think you shall for that
purpose.
You may send the letter open, enclosed in mine and if I think it best at that
time, I’ll deliver or send it to him. I think it will be proper to mention to him,
that you thought that if he was allowed his full interest, which I suppose
he’ll expect interest (compound) would not be unagreeable to him, his not
being paid at the time I mentioned to him. I expected to be in cash for your
account and would take it up Mr. Gold going away without paying me, has
made cash fairly scarce with me.
He has endeavored to secure me in Connecticut government, but can tell
how twill turn out yet. He had about £100 in cash of me about a month
before he shut up. I have not time now to give you the character he bears
here but in short say no man can have a worse and very few have a reason
given more occasion therefore – – My regards to Mrs. Dering the children
and yourself concludes me in very great haste your friend and brother Henry
Dering
Book: 2
Number: 187
Date: 10/27/1764
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Edwards
Place: Boston
Boston October ye 27th
Dear Coz
I received your letters and am very much obliged to you for my broom. I
think it is very pretty when it came. Mr. Pemberton, Elliott and Cooper was
here and they liked it and asked after your health. Mme. Storer had dined
with me that day. She liked it so well that she wished you would send a
number of them for sale. Mrs. Thomas is obliged to get a nurse for her child.
The pain in her stomach will not admit of her suckling. You say you would
have me write all about our family. If I were to it would surprise you. I do
not care to trust all that I should be glad to say to you about them in writing
but you must come and see us in the spring if God should spare your and our
lives till then. Poor Mrs. Gould looks like a dejected creature.
The small pox has left her in a poor way and she that has lived at the
Fountainhead now must with her three children go into some little house with
one room and the kitchen and must never see her husband no more in this
country for he is proved such name that he must never show his head here
again.
Besides his plaguey whoring affairs there has not been just lucky instance in
my day of villainy. Betsy is to be pitied and so is his father. As to Jemey he
behaves a little better than he did but how long it will last I can’t say. As to
Molly I shan’t write anything about her only that she remains Miss Molly.
Mrs. Polly Oliver is not like to be married. Mrs. Sandford neither.
The judge behaved very odd about that affair. I am very glad your retirement
proves to very agreeable to you. Jake Nelson is broke in London has taken
out a letter of bankruptcy. I fancy Miss Hannah Greenleaf will not toss her
head so much for had he never came back Miss was to have had £1000
133
sterling and if returned himself with an unknown sum but this world is
nothing but disappointments. They are best off that have least to on with the
world. I have sent you a paper of ink powder. Tell Sylvester I send him a few
Barberis. I would have sent more but thought there would be no opportunity
to send them and so did not do many in the season of them.
I have sent him a spelling book. You must bring him to see me in the spring.
We have one land man just from Scotland preaching. He delivers strange
doctrine, and makes a great talk among us. He is more of a Quaker then
anything. Capt. Osborne has made his addresses to Mme. Storer and Mme.
Alford both refused him. Who can blame him for his folly in attempting
when he has been so successful in wives. But he must consider he is a goutey
old man without a chariot and not a counselor. Sammy and Marcy to be
maintained. Tell Mr. Adams that he must come and see us now we are grown
too frugal perhaps I may let him preach in a speckled handkerchief. Mr.
Adams of Roxbury has not had the smallpox. I have not seen him since I
received yours, which finishes me yours ever Hepzi Edwards
Book: 2
Number: 188
Date: 10/28/1764
To: Thomas Dering
From: Joseph Belknap
Place: Boston
Book: 2
Number: 165
Date: 10/28/1764
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Edwards
Place: Boston
Boston 28 October 1764
Mr. Dering
I have received yours of ye 17th. I sent you such a pair of britches as you sent
for, the price of which is a guinea. I hope this will find you well. I have been
of late troubled with your distemper -- viz a nervous disorder in my head
but by God’s blessing and some pills which I had of Dr. Pyncheon have got
better. May your soul be in health and prosper. This with my regards to Mrs.
Dering and compliments to Mr. Adams and in from your friend to serve at all
times Joseph Belknap
PS Mrs. Edwards grows quite fat and is as cheerful as ever
George Green is returned and left Mrs. Winslow very well and all her family.
One of the Miss Vances is going down to tarry the winter with them, which
I am very glad of for both their sakes I think. Your friends are all well and
as I see them they inquire after you and desired to be remembered to you.
Mrs. Smith sends her best respects to you and says she hopes the match will
turn out well of Nancy’s match. Kiss Sylvester. Tell him I want to see him
[-] though I suppose he is not so pretty as he was. Remember me to all your
family which concludes me yours as ever at command Hepzi Edwards. Mr.
Edwards sends his regards.
• John Gooch was married to Thomas’s sister Mary. There is no record of their having children. He was announcing the
birth of Sarah’s son John as “fit for a farmer,” which he would indeed become. John was the fourth of eight children.
Boston October 30, 1764
Dear Sir
Book: 2
I must confess that I have not wrote you before this. I now acknowledge the
Number: 189
receipt of yours and Mrs. Gooch with the smoked beef and mutton for which
Date: 10/30/1764
Mrs. Gooch and I am much obliged to you for and would have put up some
To: Thomas Dering
Salmon for you but we had no body in the house all runaway upon account
From: John Gooch
of the smallpox and Hannah is since married to Col. Ingersoll but hope shall
Place: Boston
134
have opportunity the next season. I am sure. Let me be never so neglectful
in writing. I am not unmindful of you and shall always be ready to do you
any service that is in my power and am glad to hear that you are like to make
a good farmer. Mrs. Gooch and I was at Mrs. Thomases about three weeks
ago and she has got another stout boy fit for a farmer and both Mr. and Mrs.
Thomas are much better than they have been lately though not quite healthy.
I hope Mrs. Dering and your young ones are. I conclude with Mrs. Gooch
and my love to you and Mrs. Dering and am your affectionate brother John
Gooch
Book: 2
Number: 190
Date: 10/31/1764
To: Thomas Dering
From: Henry Dering
Place: Boston
Boston October 31, 1764
Dear Brother
Yours of Capt. Bayley I duly received and thank you for the broom that
you desired me to deliver. I delivered as directed. I have sent you the sundry
you wrote for as you’ll see of the enclosed bill of the particulars. I delivered
your letter to Mr. Hubbard exactly as you sent it to me with the enclosed
addition you put in about letting it lay a longer time in reply to which Mr.
Hubbard says he wants it and told him he should have it soon. Enclosed you
have a copy of your note of hand and that you may know what is due to Mr.
Hubbard. The note is so worded that I don’t know whether the estate of my
father could be finally settled while this note is outstanding. At least I think
it would carry an unacceptable countenance. Therefore as soon as make me
any remittance for the sundry I’ve sent you your desire.
I shall very gladly embrace the very first opportunity of discharge of it.
Enclosed you will find the deed of the house Mr. Wentworth now lives in so
drawn that I think you must be beyond doubt that it does not take in the land
you partitioned off for a barn to the house you sold to Mr. Gould and a place
to put wood in with an avenue to go to said barn which deed I desire you
execute and send me as soon as you can as to your signing it on account of
the date is not material only for the acknowledgement that must be dated at
the time place you do acknowledge it.
You’ll find some bayberries I sent you by Capt. Bayley as I take it they are
rarity with you. I pray you enjoy them and not let them spoil. There is more
than you’d want I daresay in case of sickness. It being dark at this time I
can’t see to enlarge and therefore must conclude with my sincere wishes for
a healthy body and peace of mind to every of your families including your
friend and brother Henry Dering
Book: 2
Number: 191
Date: 12/2/1764
To: Thomas Dering
From: E. Rogers
Place: Boston
Dear Sir
The kindness of your letter demanded of me a much earlier notice but the
variety of incidents which has happened since I had the pleasure of receiving
your favor will I hope lead my excuse without an apology therefore I shall
not explain you longer than to tell you I am in as happy a situation as this
life can afford which is far beyond my expectations and can only say that I
will endeavor to merit the indulgence of heaven by in some measure desiring
the blessings bestowed upon me. My family is happily disposed of. Betsy lives
with me. Jack with old Mr. Gould. Sam with Papa. I want to see you and
135
Mrs. Dering very much and I hope to surprise you one of these days with a
visit. I should have wrote you a longer letter but I find Mr. Lloyd just going
out of town that I have not time. Remember me kindly to the children and
be assured I am as you left me yours and Mrs. Dering’s most affectionate E
Rogers
George Brinley has been married to Molly a long time but not known till
since his father’s death.
Boston December 2, 1764
• Henry Dering was lodging with Betty Simpson.
Book: 2
Number: 192
Date: 1/1/1765
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Edwards
Place: Boston
Top half of first page torn.
... there is nothing I believe wrote or said but he lets her know. I suppose you
know that Nat Wheelwright’s breaking has deprived him of all business and
all he has in the world is gone since which Betty Sampson is mistress of the
house and Harry lodges with her. I think he is led and dictates internally by
her and does as she tells him and upon that thought when I have talked with
him I have not spared her when I have talked with him as telling him of her
suddenly and when he has said anything in favor of her why he said I in
telling me that you show me more and more her cloven foot I have not failed
in dealing with ...
... you income why can’t you please [-] in the fall and take a lodging with me
such as it is all your friends make inquiring after you and if you do not talk
of coming to see them. Miss behind the meetinghouse has done wherefore
again and George refuses to marry her. Papa has forbade him the house.
How it will turn out I cannot say and long to see you but can’t enlarge on
so tender a point of my friends pray say nothing of this but Burn this when
you read it. It is like you will hear more of this hereafter of old Mr. Lynch
more Mr. Hobey and Mr. Brown’s are dead. John Cotton has lost another
child. Mrs. Gooch has had an ill turn. We thought she would have died but
is now as well as ever. Mrs. Wentworth looks but poorly but keeps up her
spirits. Mrs. Gould and children live in a house next to her father Gould’s.
He takes care of them. Mrs. Gould’s other son is shot up and Johnny Winet
that married Mr. Winslow’s daughter and Dr. Pynchon’s wife is dead and
Mrs. Stephens is gone in the country to live. I do not think of anything new
to add but I heard the other day that Nabby Smith and her husband was
parted and that they lived a dreadful life together. I shall be glad to know if
there is any truth in it. Sally Varsel is gone to London to her husband. Mrs.
Bauer has had two children. Ned Green and Harry Dering were talking and
wishing to come and see you and I believe nothing but expensive traveling
hinders them. When your man comes in the fall what if you should get into
the vessel and come with him you and Sylvester. I think you might. How
does Mr. Adams do? Don’t he talk of coming to Boston? We should be glad
to see him here. I suppose you have heard of Dr. Harlow’s having his house
burnt and all that was in it and two fine children, one of hers and the other
his. It is so long since I have had an opportunity to write that I do not know
what I have wrote you of news nor what I have got to write but I do not think
136
of anything more so shall finish with remaining yours as ever at command
Hepzi Edwards
Remember me to Sylvester. Tell him he must come and see me. Read Long’s
to see him.
Mr. Avery is to have the widow Spanner.
Book: 2
Number: 209
Date: 1/4/1765
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Edwards
Place: Boston
Boston January 4 Pray take care this cold weather of the dear boy
Dear friend
As this is the first day of the new year I shall begin with wishing you a happy
year and many of them. I wish you all the happiness that this world can
afford you and yours. I wish you could be my neighbor. It would give me
great pleasure to have you near me but Providence has ordered it otherwise
and we must submit but I hope it will be for your profit and I perfectly long
to see them kiss my dear little boy but whether I ever shall or no I can’t say.
I think some times that it is too great a pleasure for me to expect. I have
received four letters from you, three from Shelter Island and one from
Newport. The date of the two last was November 26 and December ye 13.
I hope you received that I sent in the newspaper where I wrote you of your
mistake in directing your letter to the care of Mr. Hubbard which cost me
half a dollar. He says you must put your letters under cover to him. Major
Wendal and Jobe Hunt are both dead, died very suddenly. Jobe has left
Stephen Whiten his heir and Alan the Taylor is dead and Fanny Gordon
has got the pew at the North that is he is seated in it. Sweeny is shot up and
last Sabbath left the town. What Miss Varsel will do now and I can’t tell but
I suppose we’ll get another Galant soon and have not seen her since nor
nobody else that I can hear of.
Harry is trying for Molly Thurber. I wish he may be lucky enough to get her.
If he don’t I know not what will become of him.
Your friends all make great inquiry after you. Mr. Goldthwait’s family desires
to be remembered to you and Mr. Oliver’s and Mr. Hugh’s and indeed all
your friends are inquiring after your health.
Mr. Cummings said he would write to you if I would send the letter but as he
has not sent his letter you will have it next time I write. He has not attempted
the lady at the North yet. I expect her every day to see me and I am to let
him know when she is here. Mr. Cotton has got another. Grizzle Adam
Babcock dined here and tells me that he is to live in Boston which I am very
glad of, for then I shall have the pleasure of Nabby’s company.
As to Mr. Wentworth and Harry I do not know how they will make out but I
hope without quarreling. But you know Harry, he is Harry. Still I hope he will
get a good wife that is all the hope I have of him.
I am sorry to hear you say that you must part with Comus but I hope he will
do better. I long to hear from my child dear soul I do not forget him. Nurse
praise you to tell him if he is old man before she sees him she will kiss him.
137
Tell Mrs. Dering I have gotten 15 pound 10 of her money for vinegar and
sock so let me know what you would have done with it. I enclose you a letter
from Mrs. Winston.
Your friends are all well. Mrs. Thomas was last week as the victory of the
King of praise and the defeat of the Spanish army. I shall refer you to the
newspaper for it as I have not time to write Mrs. Dering. [-] I shall send by
the way of Newport when I hear of an opportunity. We have got your things
from a board Wimble shall send them when we can hear of an opportunity
which concludes your affectionate friend as ever Hepzi Small. Kiss Sylvester.
Tell him I love him still Hepzi Edwards
• James Reeve of Southold, an Elder in the Presyterian Church, wrote a great many letters to Thomas, which he kept, but the
transcribers have found many of them them incomprehensible -- not only the handwriting, but the contents as well – The two
letters that follow give that sense, and hereafter very little attempt to transcribe them was made.
Book: 2
Number: 193
Date: 1/9/1765
To: Thomas Dering
From: James Reeve
Place: Southold
Book: 2
Number: 194
Date: 2/15/1765
To: Thomas Dering
From: James Reeve
Place: Shelter Island
138
Mr. Dering
I am inclined to converse 20th you by writing it is a time of trial with us my
sister the white of gravity wells about four years and to lead judgment of
rational charity one who has been in a state of grace about 24 years yet now
is fallen under your dark nests trial and to temptation so as awfully great a
degree I think except in one or two instances as any ever I was acquainted
with in all my life which is very excruciating to me, yet I hope all four are
good [--] together with your prayers oh I beseech you improve your interest
at the throne of grace in our behalf how often does God honor his saints by
giving the spirit of prayer and supplication for what he ...
Shelter Island February 15, 1765
Dear Sir
I received yours of 9 January but yesterday came with cheerfulness embrace
an epistolary correspondence with you though am sorry it should proceed
from so melancholy occasion can in some measure sympathize with you
having had a near relation (viz. my father’s sister) in the same situation as
yours is now who continued so for many years and never restored to her
recent again. Who for many years was a very exemplary walker with God
and hope truly a grace on walking. These are very exercising trials. I pray
God to sanctify this as well as all others his to your grant in grace, afflictions
sanctified are many to be desired may they work for your spiritual good of
the [-] fruits of righteousness even an eternal weight of glory and if it may
be his holy will restore this your sister again as a blessing in the free exercise
of reason she came forth of this affliction or gold seven times purified and let
us wait diligently upon God in the appointed mean of prayer for this blessing
what a privilege we have that upon all occasion we can go to a father who
was able and ready to help all that come unto him (with a sincere heart and
upright minds) asking for what ever we want in and for the name and the
sake of Jesus Christ his only son our only Savior who is touched with a fellow
feeling of our troubles and Ms. Reeves.
I trust shall not be unmindful in petitions to the throne of grace for you
and yours but what ever I that I should expect to be heard of God a poor
miserable sinful wicked polluted worm of the [-] point God is merciful to
whom he will be perceived for that at any time said to the seed of Jacob C
Keemee and vein however let us submit to the divine will when we have
done all as he knows what is best for I often time of the words in the Lords
prayer (this they are very short yet very comprehensive) thy will be done and
certainly it is the duty of every Christian to say all men. I lent a book to Mr.
Sam Heineman’s wife of [-] if you please you may get it and read it.
Can recommend it to you the title page describes its a rare jewel of Christian
contentment. And may God bless it to your comfort in this time of sure
visitation – – at long guest it is but a little time we have to be here may we be
unable to improve the few days so that when our Lord an maker shall call for
us we may be found ready to give up our accounts with joy and be blessed
in the full enjoyment of him throughout all glorious eternity where there
is no more sickness or pain but shall forever be employed in sounding for
the praises of God and the Lamb which is the [-] desires and prayer of his
sincere friend in our common Lord...
Book: 3
Number: 195
Date: 2/22/1765
To: Thomas Dering
From: M. W. Howard, Jr.
Place: Newport
Newport 22 February 1765
Dear Sir
It is a long time since I have heard from you nevertheless the memory of
our acquaintance is not yet worn out and my friendship for you still lives.
Pray have you heard that your good friend and my excellent wife is gone to
heaven. She died 26 September last after a tedious illness which she bore
patiently and like a saint and heroine she submitted to the will of heaven. I
don’t choose to proceed far on this subject. The melancholy [-] are in some
degree worn out by time, but I find it is easy to renew my grief – – my little
daughter is well and I believe will make me happy. I propose to place her at
Boston for some years. I past three weeks there very agreeably this winter
among our friends. Mr. Thomas came from Marshfield almost on purpose to
see me. Hepzi is just as she must be but I think very well settled. Mr. Thomas
and his lady’s health is again established. They were both pretty low last
summer. I hope your situation at Shelter Island is as you wish and that Mrs.
Dering and your little ones feel and possess every human blessing. I mean
one time or another to pay you a visit but when is in the womb of time. I am
thrown loose upon the world once more but Providence is my guide. Were
I to indulge myself in writing this paper would not contain the half I could
say and my business forbids me the enclosed letters I brought from Boston
and they are undercover of Mr. Samuel Gardiner at New London – – God
bless you my friend and believe me to be Mrs. Dering’s and your affectionate
humble servant MW Howard Junior
• On February 12, 1765, Alexander Grant had returned to London leaving Abigail and her two daughters in Newport
with her father and stepmother. Alexander was again working for his patron Lord Grant. He remained in that employ for
several years and in 1768, with Abigail still in Newport, he left for Jamaica where the Grant family had extensive sugar
plantations. Lord Grant’s Jamaican holdings included 10,666 acres worked by about 675 slaves. It appears that Alexander
served as overseer of those holdings. While he was there, Alexander became very ill. He survived and had 500 slaves
139
inoculated. [Boonstra, ibid, October
2003, pages
London
30th 375-379]
of April 1765
Book: 3
Dear Madam.
Number: 196
I have executed the little commissions you gave me and I hope they will
Date: 4/30/1765
please you. The picture frames, two dozen of flowered wineglasses, two
To: Margaret Chesebrough
flowered and two plain decanters, four glass salts, your tea chest, and two tea
From: Alexander Grant
waiters are sent by the vessel by which this goes. The tea chest is in package
Place: London
of Mrs. Grants – the canisters are new fashioned and I think neat, being
lined with lead, they keep the tea better than tin ones. Mrs. Williamson will
send you the waiters, being put up in case of hers. With them she will send
you a box containing a complete suit of book muslin trimmed with Minionel
lace with two caps and apron in the present mode of which I trust your
acceptance as a small testimony of my sincere esteem. You will find in it a
cloak for Nabby, which you will be good enough to deliver her. I sent you a
piece of Cambrick in February with some goods to Mr. Champlin; I hope
he has received and delivered it to you. As this is likely to be the place of
my residence longer than I could wish, if you have any more commissions
be assured I will execute them with great pleasure, and to the best of my
judgment. I beg to be kindly remembered to Mr. and Mrs. Dering when you
see or write them – – In whatever situation Providence may see fit to dispose
of me. Believe me I shall ever remain with the highest esteem and regard
dear Mdm. your most affectionate and obliged humble servant Alexander
Grant
• Margaret Chesebrough was expected to be visiting her sister Mary on Shelter Island.
New London May 31, 1765
Book: 3
Dear Sir
Number: 197
Yours by Mr. Havens I received, for which I am greatly obliged. I should
Date: 5/31/1765
have returned an answer, if I knew what to say. I can only say at present that
To: Thomas Dering
I should be glad to be with you, if my circumstances would allow it, I am so
From: William Adams
perplexed and entangled that I know not the present which way to extricate
Place: New London
myself. My brother is but in a miserable state of health and uncommonly
low and depressed in spirit. His eldest daughter has been for some time [-]
and still continues in a paid and languishing condition, though with some
intervals of ease. And what paths to [-] the stress of the family Mr. Richards
(my sister’s father who has been long sick) expired but a few hours ago. You
have doubtless heard of the melancholy account of Mr. Barber’s daughter, a
story in all its circumstances enough to make the ears of everyone that breath
it to tingle. I saw him at his house yesterday. He received me as if nothing
bad happened and not the least mention of ye shocking affair. I saw Mr.
Chesebrough the day before yesterday, spent the evening and part of the next
day with him at Mrs. Mumford’s and on the road. He inquired whether his
wood was ready. I told him I supposed it was. He desires to send Pembleton
for it within a fortnight at [-] with whom you may expect Mrs. Chesebrough
expected. I shall do my utmost to be with you before she returns. You will
kindly remember me to Mrs. Dering and the children and to all friends on
the Island. I have no time now indeed hard to write much at present though
I have a great deal to say – – I am your obliged friend and servant William
Adams
140
Book: 3
Number: 198
Date: 6/4/1765
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Butler
Place: New York
New York June 4, 1765
Mr Thos Dering
to William Butler Dr.
to Cash paid for 3 1/2 gallons rum @ 3/3 £5.2.4/3
to Cash paid for 166 to put dim 4
to do paid for two bottles salad oyl 3/6 to do paid for one pair wool Conde 4.6
5.16.10/2
to Cash paid for 1 oz Rurke Ruebarb 7
to do paid cottage
9
£6.4.7.4
to my Cent at 2/ [-]
3.4
£6.7.8.0
Sir agreeable [-] to your 22 May you have the above things by John Veal. I
have not made anything more of Ludlow. I have not been able to see your
barley can’t get more than about 2/9 or 3/ a bushel as there is no market
here but the Brewer’s and they don’t care to mettle with any as this season of
the year therefore it must be sold for the use of creatures. I could get the malt
but could not get it for less than 5/6 a bushel therefore have omitted sending
any until the orders. I am your very humble servant William Butler
Book: 3
Number: 199
Date: 6/5/1765
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Butler
Place: New York
Book: 3
Number: 200
Date: 6/12/1765
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Butler
Place: New York
Book: 3
Number: 201
Date: 6/12/1765
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Adams
Place: New London
New York June 5, 1765
Mr. Thos Dering
Sir
Since I put the things on board of Mr. Veal have bought the bushel malt
which is not charged in the account for this conveyance which you’ll please
to note at 5/6 the price I gave for it if you should like it and order more will
send it to you. I am your humble servant at command William Butler
New York June 12, 1765
Mr. Thos Dering
Sir
By Capt. James Wiggins you have two bottles salad oyl which was forgot by
Veal. I wish them safe to hand and to satisfaction. I am your very humble
servant at command William Butler
New London June 14, 1765
Dear Sir
I wrote about a fortnight ago to be forwarded to you which I trust before this
time is come to hand. I send this by Mr. Storer who is now upon his return
and waiting for a passage. Since I wrote last my brother has had an ill turn,
which exceedingly surprised us all, one night last week we were all alarmed
and called out of our beds upon his account, his being [-] with a fit wherein
he was very much convulsed and left all sense. It was near half an hour
141
before it went off and he recovered his reason and senses. As soon as possible
we had Dr Coit with him who took quantity of blood from him which I
hope was of considerable service. The remaining part of ye night he slept
comfortably and next day and ever since he has been as well if not better
than he had been for some time before. I imagine it was of the epeleptic
kind and perhaps verging towards a paralysis on [-] a striking admonition
to be always ready, as we know not the time of our Lord’s coming; whether
at midnight, at cock crowing or in the morning! I am indeed uncertain
and grieved that the embarrassment of my affairs, I can’t be with you at
present and how long it will be before I shall be able to come I can’t say. For
particulars I refer you to Mrs. Storer. I hear you have [-] of your cattle, I
hope something to your mind. I bade you will write me by every opportunity.
I trust Mrs. Chesebrough is with you by this time or will be soon. If she
comes I shall do my utmost to see you before her return. Remember me to
your spouse and children and all inquiring friends. I can add no further but
that I am your obliged friend and humble servant William Adams
Book: 3
Number: 202
Date: 7/20/1765
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Adams
Place: New London
July 20, 1765
Dear Sir
I have received yours, desiring me to pay to Mr. Chesebrough the money you
sent to discharge Palmer’s note. These are to inform you that upon second
letter from Mr. Chesebrough I ventured to pay the money to Mr. Mumford
last week, for which I have his receipt. I am indeed as desirous to be with
you as you can possibly be and more peculiarly on Mrs. Chesebrough’s
account whom I long to see; but I know not how at present to leave home,
we have been in great distress upon the account of my poor brother who
last Wednesday had two very severe fits from which he has not so kindly
recovered as from the first, of which I advised you. I almost despair of
his recovery to his former health and usefulness and without speedy relief
from the many difficulties he labors under, I can see no others but that he
must soon leave us. If it be possible I will attempt to see you before Mrs.
Chesebrough leaves the Island to whom with Mrs. Dering I beg to be
kindly remembered. I am now forced some other life. My brother and sister
would send their respects. I doubt not my dear friend but we shall have a
remembrance in your [-] to heaven. Under our difficulties and trials – my
compliments to all inquiring friends and believe me your affectionate friend
and servant William Adams
PS As I am now at Mr. Samuel Gardiner’s. He tells me he can’t proceed in
town [--] sent unto him, hopes he may get it at Norwich whether [-] going
the beginning of the week. Sincere compliments.
Book: 3
Number: 203
Date: 7/21/1765
To: Thomas Dering
From: James Reeve
Place: Southold
142
Dear Sir
I take opportunity to write to you to let you know I and family are well and
indeed comfortable [-] as I hope yours are they graze mercy [-] on abound
to you and yours through the knowledge of our good and Savior Jesus Christ.
Pleased to write to me about your having or not ye preaching .....
Book: 3
Number: 205
Date: 10/6/1765
To: Thomas Dering
From: James Reeve
Place: Southold
Book: 3
Number: 204
Date: 10/16/1765
To: Thomas Dering
From: James Reeve
Place: Southold
Book: 3
Number: 227
Date: 11/1/1765
To: Thomas Dering
From: Andrew Oliver
Place: Boston
Dear and honored friend and brother
I had to be in a friendly way to write a few lines to you to let you know
my family are in good health and at present under tolerably comfortable
circumstances as also are our neighborhood. One valuable young man in our
family Joseph [-] we are afraid is dangerously sick. As to my souls concern at
present I am much deserted cast down not in despair[--] for you don’t know
what inward struggles and conflicts I meet with through the [-] of the powers
of darkness. Oh I can’t ...........
Dear Sir
I write once more take it not amiss to let you know I am in want of the .....
Boston 1 November 1766
Dear Sir
I had sooner replied to your favor of August last, but that I was in the
country when it came to hand and afterwards finding that your linen was like
to come out of the loom in a little time, I deferred writing till I sent it. It now
comes by the schooner [-], Abner Stocking master, who has put it in his chest.
I promised to deliver it as directed to Mr. Samuel Gardiner in New London;
and enclosed is Mr. Brown’s receipt for £6.4.3 old tender for the weaving. I
compared the price with the table settled by the committee and find it right:
the reason for allowing 20/ for a short ps is, because it is easier to set the
loom for one piece of 20 yards than for two pieces of 10 yards only – – he
thinks it would be worth 30 or 32 a yard when it is bleached; but you must
not judge by the first yard for you may remember there was coarser thread
among it, and he put in some of his own to complete the piece, which was
laid too long for the yarn you sent.
I thank you for the feelings you express for my late sufferings, as cruel as they
were unmerited. Our General Assembly is now sitting and had yesterday
under consideration the matter of a compensation to those sufferers which
was lost by five votes; the voters were 80 of whom 36 were in favor and had
they not been fettered by their instructions it is very probable the vote would
have been carried. If the house should be fuller next week it is very like that
the matter may be taken up again; yet the event is uncertain.
We were some of us so near you as Stafford in September last. I went center
for the benefit of the waters and found great benefit by them. Mrs. Oliver
and our son Daniel accompanied me. I stayed only a fortnight. Had I begun
earlier in the season, so that I could have stayed longer, they would have been
still more beneficial. There is such a width of water between Connecticut
and Shelter Island as seems to strike upon the thought of a visit there.
We thank you for your kind invitation and assure you that the [-] there or
elsewhere would afford us great pleasure. We all join in the tenders of our
sincere love and regard to you and Mrs. Dering and the children. I am dear
143
Sir your affectionate friend and very humble servant Andrew Oliver
Book: 3
Number: 206
Date: 11/24/1765
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Adams
Place: New London
Book: 3
Number: 207
Date: 12/2/1765
To: Thomas Dering
From: N. Rogers
Place: Boston
Book: 3
Number: 208
Date: 12/15/1765
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Edwards
Place: Boston
144
New London November 24, 1765
Dear Sir
In my letter I wrote yesterday I wrote you that we were all in comfortable
health; but alas how soon is the scene changed! My dear brother about 1
o’clock this morning was seized with a terrible fit and this followed by several
more in quick succession, all the while [--] upon the doctors coming and
taking a little blood, his fits ceased in some measure recovered his senses but
was left so extreme faint that even then we almost despaired of his seeing
the light of another morning: but blessed be God, he still lives; though yet in
a very low and stupid state; how it may please God still to deal with him is
indeed to us uncertain, but to all appearances his stay in this world can’t be
but short; our greatest effort is, we have good reason to hope he is prepared
for a better. I intend to send my other letter to Mr. Palmer this evening I
could not [-] without giving you this short account as I am sensible you will
sympathize with us in our distress and I doubt not remember us in your
addresses to the throne of Grace. I am your afflicted friend William Adams
Dear Sir
The kind sympathy you express for Mrs. Rogers when she was, for I flatter
myself if in a less happy situation will ever make me esteem and respect you.
It is near two months since we were married and she becomes dearer to me
every day. I think we may be sure of that friendship which stands the test of
adversity. The cruel part that nips so many interested prosepiers and this
friendship your amiable [-] has experienced from you. I am sorry you live
so far from us, but there [-] in life are but trifling to a mind that has in view
pleasures of a far more noble altered nature; which no connection here can
solely bestow reflections such as there can only be suggested by Christianity.
The noblest [-] to support the mind in all adversity, and to lead it to a
dependence upon God as the chief good. Mrs. Rogers writes you herself
that it will be needless in me to enlarge. The Lieutenant Governor goes
for England in about a fortnight in hopes to get some relief for the justice
of our British past which was [-] him here for the unparalleled injustice he
received. Aunt Hally lives just as they used to [-] then live. Mrs. Knight died
about two in the afternoon as did Pat Brinley last week. Jack Apthorp lately
[-] a widower and then married next week to Hannah Greenleaf. They were
publish yesterday. Or to [-] news he [-] is entirely in the hands of the [-] some
Mr. Intosh a shoemaker is at the head of her near fewer items he God we
dearly expect now friend. With my best wishes for Mrs. Dering and [-]...
December ye 15
Since I wrote your letter I have received a kind letter from William Adams
which I was very much pleased with, but was very sorry to find that he did
not spend the winter with you. He tells me that his brother’s illness detains
him. He offers to take care of my letters so I shall send them to him. Last
Thursday Jack Apthorp was married to Miss Hannah Greenleaf. Tell Mrs.
Dering that we drawn no lottery till we have done with the Stamp Act. The
famous Rogers has been home and is made Governor of some; country and
the infamous Mr. Potter his secretary. December 17 this day the Sons of
Liberty met with the tree of liberty there to swear the secretary that he will
not act as stamp master as his commission is arrived.
• In 1766, Benjamin Franklin, in London representing the interests of Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and
Georgia before the British Parliament, testified against the Stamp Act and later that year it was repealed in response to
British merchants whose goods were being boycotted. Still, they restated England’s supreme authority over the colonies. In
1767, the Parliament passed the Townshend Acts, which imposed duties on glass, tea and other items. The Americans
reacted by adopting non-transportation agreements and refused to buy British goods.
• In 1766, Thomas Dering accepted his first office in Shelter Island government as Supervisor (the equivalent of Mayor), a
position he would hold through 1769.
New York January 8, 1766
Mr. Thomas Dering
Book: 3
Sir
Number: 210
Yours of the fifth him to I have for me agreeable to wish you have all the
Date: 1/8/1766
articles wrote for except three. Them could not be found. Shall send your
To: Thomas Dering
account by Mr. William Hubbard. These goods you have by Mr. Hubbard’s
From: William Butler
sloop, amount to £9.10.2. Enclosed you have Mr. John Holts Gazette
Place: New York City
for your [-] by which you may be informed the method to apply for any
premium you or your neighbors are [-] to form the society. You have also
enclosed account of the things sent. I am your very humble servant at
command William Butler
Book: 3
Number: 211
Date: 1/30/1766
To: Thomas Dering
From: Pegene Adams
Place: New London
New London 30 January 1766
Dear Sir
At the request of my wife I write these to beg the favor that you would send
her 50 weight of flax if you have any of the best sort and 10 pounds of the
best of sheep’s wool which is wanted in the family by for which you expect to
pay the market price. Should be glad to have it sent by the first boat. I shall
take care to send the pay directly. I am also desire to lay in with you now to
reserve for her in sharing him about 50 weight of the best wool as we know
that what you send may be depended upon. I shall here-in be greatly obliged.
So I could hardly believe when you came to live in these parts to have spent
so much time without seeing you or any of your good family or you mine.
And now I am fallen into such a weakly infirm state of body. I never expect
to be able to go from home again till I go to my long home [---] I have
reason to think but may be soon and suddenly taken [---] May I be prepared
for such an event. I should be exceeding glad to see you and your spouse and
hope (if you have no thought) that you would come and give your friends
and family. I would let you know my brother is very well and break of when I
have added my wife’s best regards to you and spouse and that I am your real
friend Pygene Adams
• Charles Jeffrey Smith participated in the ordination of the Reverend Elam Potter on June 11, 1766. This, according to
Jacob Mallman in his 1899 book, Shelter Island and Its Presbyterian Church. was the only ordination to have ever taken
place on the Island. James Reeve, an Elder, also participated. Following his ordination, the Rev. Potter became a missionary
in the South, then served for seven years in Enfield, Connecticut, and served in Southold from November 1782 until his
145
death on January 5, 1794 at the age
Brookhaven
of 52. March 24 AD 1766
Book: 3
My dear Sir
Number: 212
With the leave of Providence I propose to spend the next Sabbath after the
Date: 3/24/1766
setting of the Presbytery at Shelter Island which will be the second Sabbath
To: Thomas Dering
in April and shall attempt to enter the beloved pulpit from which I have
From: Charles Jeffrey Smith
been so long exiled, unless you have a prospect of being better supplied. A
Place: Brookhaven
discourse on regeneration accompanies this and a solicits the acceptance of
your congregation as a sincere though very small expression of regard. And
when you remember Sir that it is a juvenile performance – introduced into
public on a journey – in a hurry – one languishing under bodily infirmities
– surrounded with ministerial labor – you will peruse with candor. And
made the author and every reader be daily renewed in the spirit of their
minds and have a growing conformity to the dear Redeemer who is the
parent of beauty and the perfection of glory! Then life will be pleasant,
death welcome, and eternity blessed – – though eternity will be too short to
admire the wonders and celebrate the riches of redeeming love. Please to
present affectionate salutation to Mrs. Dering and Mrs. Muirson and when
nearest and warmest at the throne of grace particularly remember yours
affectionately in the dear Immortal CJ Smith
Charles Jeffrey Smith
Book: 3
Number: 213
Date: 3/29/1766
To: Thomas Dering
From: Sam Gardiner
Place: New London
Book: 3
Number: 215
Date: 4/5/1766
To: Thomas Dering
From: James Reeve
Place: Southold
146
New London March 29, 1766
Sir
Yesterday I received your second letter in regard to the band tallow left in
my care to sell by Mr. Thomas Fanning. Order the tallow I sold and sent
the money by Mr. Sheeney. Mr. Fanning’s boatman the time that he was
cast away in the snow storm I wrote to Mr. Fanning and sent ye money to
him to forward to you by first opportunity which supposed you had received
before the date of your last letter. The sum was £5.3.6 lawful money which
I paid Mr. Sheeney. I please to inquire of Mr. Fanning and your obliged and
humble servant Sam Gardiner
Southold April 5, 1766
Mr. Dering
For I can get no letter from you except your first in which you expressed
how you with cheerfulness what embrace an epis... correspondence to me
although at ye same time high a steam I self in many respects unworthy yet
as you expressed your self I think I have some just claim to the same which
unless by some conduct of mine I have forfeit an still must hold you two if I
have forfeited I am ignorant of it mate let me know where in. I hope it is only
your multiplied care lying on your hands prevent you. I own I resume two [-]
as to write a few broken [-] to Mrs. Dering and Mrs. Murison. I don’t know
but [--] agreeable to politeness an good manners to write and super scribe
letter to a gentleman’s wife as though I had some secret correspondence with
her separate from her husband if it might be esteemed for you [-] I did it in
friendship my what I [-] I hope still we shall have a friendly correspondence
an meet in the rest above where they are can be no misunderstanding ....
Book: 3
Number: 214
Date: 4/7/1766
To: Thomas Dering
From:
Wentworth and Roswell
Saltonstall
Place: New London
Book: 3
Number: 216
Date: 4/24/1766
To: Thomas Dering
From: Simon Pease
Place: Newport
Sir
We send you by Mr. Webb a box containing goose corks, half goose pipes –
and as you made inquiry of our WS for hay seed have taken liberty to send
you some to fill up. Should the seed not suit your esteeming it will be no
inconvenience – the butternut bash is engaged but not yet come to hand if it
does not come soon enough for this will send it by the next boat – – our WS
sends your little daughter a ribbon and has obtained many incomiums her
preferences in manufacturers. Your obedient humble servant Wentworth and
Roswell Saltonstall
New London April 7, 1766
1 goose Cook’s 4
1 half goose pipes .3.6
22 li large Eel Clover 1.18.4
Sold at cost
1.5.10 lawful money
Newport April 24, 1766
Thomas Dering
Sir
Yesterday received yours with 4 bb mutton 2 tallow and 1/2 bb of lard
which shall disposed of as soon as I can and pay the money as you have
directed, but think the mutton will fall short of what you informed me it sold
for for upon inquiry fine that was sold for seven dollars interest. The price
of such things as you mention you have below as they are at present my best
respects to Mrs. Dering. My spouse remains in the same distressed condition
as when you saw her I am your [-] friend Simon Pease
prices current
pork good 10 dollars
beef ditto 8
ham at 8 pence
smoked beef 7 pence
tallow 7 to 7 1/2
lard -6
mutton and ham 7
New York June 14, 1766
Book: 3
Number: 217
Date: 6/14/1766
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Butler
Place: New York
Mr. Thomas Dering
To William Butler, Dr.
To the cash paid for one bladder snuff [-] 310 £0.19.2
1 loaf refined sugar 18.8 15/2
17 1/2
1 tt rotten stone
1.6
1 corkscrew
2”
1 bb rum 32 1/2 gallons
3/6
5.13.9
bb for rum
4.6
1 bb sugar
£2.2.3
147
Total 2.1.12 at 60/.7.36
bb for sugar 2..0
Total £15.3.11 1/2 [-] 5 per 15.2
Total 15.19.13 1/2
Sir
I am favored with your two letters dated 31 May and 9th June agreeable to
which you have the above things by [-] Capt. Jeremiah Veale. The amount to
your debt you’ll obliged I have charged five per pound commission which is
as low as I can do business for the future especially to get it [-] as its attended
with considerable trouble to pick them up though society will not meet until
the first Monday in July when they will meet and I don’t doubt but you will
be allowed the second bounty as in my opinion you are [-] to it. I am your
very humble servant at command William Butler
Book: 3
Number: 218
Date: 7/29/1766
To: Thomas Dering
From: Simon Pease
Place: Newport
Newport July 29, 1766
Mr. Thomas Dering
Yours of the 16th received. I have sold your tallow and fat and paid the
money care of Mr. Chesebrough upon your account last June and now have
sold the mutton it being so long in salt it was very black I was obliged to get
the Packer upon it the amount you had below. For I am your affectionate
friend Simon Pease
Accounting below
Paid to Mr. Chesebrough 504.0.0
Book: 3
Number: 219
Date: 7/30/1766
To: Thomas Dering
From: Pygene Adams
Place: New London
New London July 30, 1766
Sir
An unexpected opportunity presents by whom I write these to let you know I
am still in the land of the living, but by the appointment of divine Providence
so exercised with difficulty both of body and mind as so render me almost [-]
either to myself or them but I know it is my duty to submit and hope I make
it my endeavor (as I am able) or in other words more proper as I am enabled
so imitate our great example and say as is recorded in the Gospel that if it is
were God’s will I might be relieved from this difficulty I should be glad but
if is they not pass except I drink his holy will be done – – should be glad to
write more but the disclosing a little [-] must conclude these -- in the spring I
sent for some flax which you were so good as to send and agreeably so desire
I paid therefore to my brother. I also sent to engage 50th wool which I hope
you have reserved and will send me by the bearers and but of the price and
the pay you may depend I shall send by the first boat. Should be glad if your
attain would admit of your paying us a visit with your spouse this summer
I can tell you truly it would be most acceptable to me and my wife. I am [-]
with much esteemed affection to your spouse your friend Pygene Adams
PS I send a sheet by Mr. Power to put the wool in.
• Phineas Fanning was often a tennant at Sylvester Manor.
148
Book: 3
Number: 221
Date: 8/19/1766
To: Thomas Dering
From: Phineas Fanning
Place: Flaceboak
Flaceboak, August ye 19th 1766
Sir
I take this opportunity to let you know that I expect to go to Boston some
time ye last of next month with we as some of our neighbors are a threshing
for that purpose – – so if it suits you to lend any by me I should be glad if
you would get in readiness. I likewise should be glad if you would led Mr.
Havens and son know of it – – I shall if Mr. Vail does not go to Nantucket
sell to your beef money with my own then. Since I have a good deal I
should be glad and pay. But I hate to write. Pray excuse what I amise. My
compliments to yourself and Mrs. Dering and children. Thomas to leave at
all opportunity. Phineas Fanning.
• The debt of £1664 with Mr. Lane of London continued to haunt Thomas Dering.
London 20 August 1766
Mr. Thomas Dering
Book: 3
Sir
Number: 220
As I have now brought the books of my late partnership very near upon a
Date: 8/20/1766
settlement I send you here with your company’s account as it stands in their
To: Thomas Dering
books under the joint names of Thomas and Henry Dering, by which you
From: Thomas Lane
will see that there is a balance due to said partnership of Lane and Booths
Place: London
of £1664.2.8 which I have transferred to your debt in a new [-] account.
The failure of your late partner Mr. Dering after using his best endeavors to
reduce the balance of the company account send you to the 30 April 1761
I was much concerned to hear of, both on your account as well as my own.
This will be delivered you by Mr. Levinus Clarkson of New York, whom
my son Mr. John Lane hath desired to make inquiry as to your abilities of
making payment of the above balance, which I desire you will discharge as
far as is in your power to do by making payments to the said Mr. Clarkson
of what money you can raise for that purpose and his receipt shall be your
discharge. You will please to let me have your reply to this undercover of
Messrs. Lane Son and Frazier and is all that offers at present from Sir your
most humble servant Thomas Lane
Book: 3
Number: 225
Date: 8/29/1766
To: Thomas Dering
From: Henry Lloyd
[Boston merchant]
Place: Boston
Boston August 29, 1766
Dear Sir
By delivering the enclosed which relates to the sufferings of our worthy
friends the Lieutenant Governor and Secretary I have obtained an answer
so as to be here by the opening of the session of our General Court which
stands [-] to September 24 next or as soon after as possible it may be of
service to them and will very much obliged me who am with mine and Mrs.
Lloyd’s best compliments to Mrs. Dering and self.
PS pleased to seal the enclosed before you deliver. I send it open for your
perusal
Dear Sir, your most humble servant Henry Lloyd
PS your brother Wentworth lies very dangerously ill at Mrs. Gould’s house on
Jamaica Plains in the last stages of a dropsy and consumption – – Mr. James
Apthorp is returned from St. Eustacia and designs going there again in about
149
a fortnight with his wife – – Mrs. Rogers is lately brought to bed of a fine
son – – you have doubtless heard of Mr. Bob Temple’s great good fortune by
a legacy to his lady of £6,000 sterling in cash which he is gone to England to
receive. The Surveyor General is to be married this fall to Miss Bowdoin only
daughter of James Bowdoin Esq. Mr. George Irving to Mr. Isaac Winslow’s
eldest daughter. Mr. John Winslow’s son Joshua Winslow Esq. to the late
William Jonathan Simpson’s eldest daughter Mr. Stewart Holly here from
London to Miss [-] you see that business on briskly in this part of the world.
The season is fine fruitful and very healthy. The few deaths of noted persons
none of which have happened very lately. You are doubtless informed of by
the newspapers. The Rev. Mr. Morehead lies dangerously ill and his life is
despaired of.
• The Dering brothers’s business affairs now wrapped up, Henry was looking for new pastures. Hepzi reported that he had
gathered up his “strumpet” and boarded a ship to Jamaica where he had set up shop and was now selling groceries.
• On September 16, 1766, Elizabeth Dering Wentworth’s husband, Samuel, died.
Book: 3
Number: 222
Date: 9/5/1766
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Edwards
Place: Boston
Dear Coz
Boston
Hepzi Edwards
It is so long since I have had a line from you that I did not know but you had
great on with your friend here but Mrs. Dering has wrote me that you are
well which I am glad to hear. Pray don’t you think coming to see us. Your
friends all say they long to see you. Do take a little trip, and if you should
you will find many of your old friends gone. This is a changeable world that
we live in. Mr. Kitchen is dead and has left you 300 pounds old tenor and
Sally the same. And that is all in our family. But he has left a great many
legacies. He has left Mr. Elliott and [-] each 250 pounds – what it was for
nobody knows. John Walker is dead and Mrs. Betty has renewed her age and
is fitting up her house. She says that you would not come and see her and
take your leave of her. KeateyVigh instead.
Mrs. Pembroke is dead and to be buried tomorrow. Mr. Wentworth is just
gone. He is at Roxbury at the house he built. We expect every moment to
hear he is dead. He don’t speak. Molly is married. What is to become of
them. I can’t tell. Tom Wentworth is almost gone. Harry Wentworth is lost
at sea a dread full stroke to his poor mother just at this time for her heart
was set on her son and all her dependence was on him as he was so much
reformed. She has been very ill herself but is almost wore out with attending
her husband. Sarah Leonard can’t live many days longer two or three of
their little blacks are dead and [-] in short I have not time to write you one
half of the melancholy circumstances of that family for I just now hear that
Colonel Saltonstall is to go out of town tomorrow but if I live I hope to write
you by Wimbledon when he goes.
It is so long since I wrote you that I don’t know what to write you that you
have not heard, but I must say one word about our poor unhappy friend
Harry Dering. He is gone to Jamaica and carried his strumpet with him. I
150
believe he would be glad to get rid of her if he could but she is [-] subtle
Jade. I have had a letter from him. He writes me that he has his health and
that he has hired a house and shop and sells groceries. I wish he may do well
and be brought to a sense of his evil ways. My heart aches for him. I have
wrote to him. He sent me a bottle of cyan. Gypsy hates me as he told me
before he went away for though I did not know her she had it double and
round by way of him for I never spared him and it seems he told her all. I
have a deal to say to you. What if you should come and see me and hear all
that I have got to say to you and see your friends. Mr. Winslow and his wife
has been up here this nine months and is gone down and [-] Mr. Thomas
since second son with them to take care of him till he is 16 years old. The
secretary is in a poor way the rest of the family pretty well. The match is all
of with Widower Bariot and Ms. Sally – –
You say nothing of Comus. I hope he is behaving well. Where is Mr. Adams?
I was in hopes he would have come and made me a visit this summer. I wish
he would this fall. I should be very glad to see him. I pray has Sylvester forgot
me I hear nothing of him. I suppose he would not know me if he would to
see me. Jeamy Apthorpe went off without any body’s knowledge. He has
returned again for his wife to carry her away and she is going with him soon.
Your friends all desire to be remembered to you and say they want to have
you come and see them. But I must finish with your friend as ever Hepzi
Edwards
Book: 3
Number: 223
Date: 9/19/1766
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Adams
Place: New London
New London September 19, 1766
Dear Sir
Last evening my nephew brought me the enclosed, which he took up at the
post office. It was sent undercover by Mr. Henry Lloyd, to me, desiring me
to forward it by the first opportunity as it was a letter of some importance.
It must have laid there some time as Mr. Lloyd’s letter is dated August 9. I
am sorry I had no advice of it before this time. I hope no great disadvantage
will follow. It’s been so long delayed in coming to your hands. I shall take
the first opportunity of conveying this to you. In the papers of this week
there is advice of the death of your brother Wentworth, last week (I think)
at Roxbury. I have been a few days past considerably out of order, but
feel something more comfortable this morning the rest of the family are
intolerable health -- Mr. Towers a few days ago gave me a most melancholy
account of Mrs. Muirson as if in the opinion of the doctor there was scarce
any hope of her recovery; I hope you will write particularly about it in
your next. I trust to see you before winter sets in how long [-] I can’t say.
Remember me to Mrs. Dering the children and all inquiring friends I am
your obliged friend and humble servant William Adams
PS I hope Mrs. Dering has sent Mrs. Chesebrough Dr. Chauncey’s sermons.
Book: 3
Number: 226
Date: 9/21/1766
To: Thomas Dering
From: Samuel Gardiner
Place: New London
New London September 21, 1766
Mr. Dering
Sir
We have sent by Mr. Webb two hundred of peppers they are pickled. And
want nothing but good vinegar put to them and if you have an opportunity
you can return the tub and your obliged and humble servant Sam Gardiner
151
Book: 3
Number: 224
Date: 9/29/1766
To: Thomas Dering
From: Charles Jeffrey Smith
Place: Brookhaven
Book: 3
Number: 228
Date11/4/1766
To: Thomas Dering
From: Charles Jeffrey Smith
Place: Brookhaven
Brookhaven September 29, 1766
My dear friend
I had not the pleasure of receiving your kind favor of the 12 instant before
Dr. Muirson return, else he would have carried like acknowledgments and
by the contents of yours. I perceive some of your letters and mine have
miscarried for I should have been inexcusable had you dear Sir wrote a
third time without a line from me. I hope nothing will occur to prevent
the pleasure of your visit and if you consult the inclination of your friends
you will order matters so that it be not short one - they we be daily visited
from on high with those divine influences, which here and invigorate the
soul and fitted for the service and enjoyment of him whose favor makes life
agreeable and renders Death not formidable - but alas! How often do we
stray away from whom, whose presence is the most sublime felicity! All for
the happy time when we shall be always near and ever like our God! My
sisters join with me in compliments to you and Mrs. Dering who we hope will
accompany you here. That the best of heaven’s blessings may descend on you
and yours is the ardent desire and frequent prayer of him who rejoices in the
thought that in your devote moments you remember my dear Sir you’re very
affectionate friend in the dear Emanuel CJ Smith
Brookhaven November 4 AD 1766
My dear Sir
I have just received your kind favor of October 17 and bless God [-] you
was returned home in safety to your agreeable family – – I am also indebted
to you for another epistle of August 16 which has lately arrived after a long
passage – – this week my aged grandfather was interred a short sickness
in which he manifested the same willingness to depart as he had done
in health for many years past – less one drops after another like leaves in
autumn! And ere long our turn will come! And how inexcusable shall we
be if unprepared when we have not only the death of others, but various
infirmities of body gently admonishing us to be ready: May we dear Sir
always stand with our lamps trimmed and burning, working while the day of
life lasts to promote the interests of that incarnate God, who has delivered
us from the night of eternal death! May the love of Christ constrain us to
be fruitful in every good work and prompt us to do something for him, who
has done, who is living, so much focus – – it grieves me that my poor state
of health has reduced me to such narrow sphere of usefulness, which hardly
extends beyond domestic circle – but God’s will be done – could I be an able
successful minister of the new testament, I would not exchange conditions
with the monarch of a world – but God must be glorified by passive as well as
active obedience.
My sisters join with me in best regards to you and Mrs. Dering and those
lovely olive plants your children – – and that the best of blessings made
the still light gentle dews on you and yours in this on pain prayer of your
affectionate friend in a new failing all sufficient Emmanuel CJ Smith
152
Book: 3
Number: 229
Date11/28/1766
To: Thomas Dering
From: Nehemiah Barker
Place: Madetuc (Mattituck)
Book: 3
Number: 232
Date11/29/1766
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Edwards
Place: Boston
Madetuc Nov 28 1766
My honored friend
Wth these, sir, I have sent by my neighbor Mr. Isaac Hubbard of according
to proposal my mare with foal to run with yours till the spring or until you
shall find me word which I hope to observe and obey – – I was minded to
have come with my wife to visit you and yours and good Mr. Adams, but
have been blessed hitherto and now beside the burden of my charge I have
undertaken that of a school which will confine me for this winter. But I hope
since you have with much desire obtained from Mr. Adams another visit he
is also to be prevailed with to continue with you longer than the time I set
for paying my visit and that then I shall have the satisfaction of seeing you
together and of being edified by being filled with your company. I hope in
the meantime to be strengthened by your prayers, for who can need them
more? Or whom will more needs to be strengthened? I should be glad to
hear that Mr. Adams continues with you to the strengthening of the cordial
and to the winning over of the disobedient to the wisdom of the just. I should
be glad to hear of your welfare of your souls welfare and that ye are all in
real prosperity – with Hardy love. Dear Sir to your self spouse Mr. Adams
and family I [-] yours N Barker
Boston November 29th
Dear Coz
I received yours and went to two or three traders and they said they could
not make one hat white without they had more for they must have all there
are things clean from the black and the summer was the best time to make
them in as they could make them cleaner. They asked six dollars for one.
I have no money of Mrs. Dering’s. I had three dollars and that I paid the
Secretary for the cloth all but 10 Shillings. The other three I bought a ticket
with the lottery. Is to be drawn in January next. If a prize shall let you know.
Pray if you can leave home to go hundred miles one way why can’t you leave
it to come and see your friends.
Old Lady Green says that she wishes it might be that she was to see your face
once more in this world. I really wish you would come. If you made ever
so little a tarry of it is only to see what alteration there is in father’s family.
Mrs. Brinley is got a son she had liked to have died. Poor Mrs. Wentworth
is almost wore out. What will become of them I can’t say but I think Mrs.
Wentworth will never want.
Mr. Gooch still ventures at sea and loses I believe. It is but low times with
them. She has two of Jemey Athorp’s children to board with them and I
hear she would take two or three more if she could get them. I hear they
have parted with several things out of their house. He is now very poorly. We
have just heard of that. For Harry is well. And that Peter Chardon is dead.
Your friends are all inquiry after you and wanted to know if you do not talk
of coming to see them. Neighbor Huse is longing to see you and hoping
to see you. I have had no time to ask after any [-] for I was not well when
I received your letter and the man told me that he should go on Monday
that I have only time to write you a few lines now. Do try to come and see
153
us in the spring. Mr. Pemberton talks of going to New York in the spring but
believes he shan’t go to see you. I would have you write to him to call on you
but I must not write you anymore as I intend to write Mrs. Dering who I am
obliged to for my present. I wish I could return her anything in the room of it
I hope I shall one time or other yours as ever Hepzi Edwards
I do assure you it would [-] you to see my little habitation. Do come I will
make it as agreeable as I can if you will try.
Book: 3
Number: 233
Date: 12/4/1766
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Butler
Place: New York
New York December 4, 1766
Mr. Thomas Dering
Sir
I have this day the second bounty upon flax it deemed determined in your
favor by the society and allowed 20 pounds which sum is to your credit. Mr.
Josiah Smith [-] allowed the third bounty which I have also [-] for him. I am
your very humble servant at command William Butler
• This letter from Thomas Dering to his creditors in London does, in some part, explain some of the reasons for the failure
of the Dering merchant business in Boston: fire and bad debts. He also seems to suggest that he had no idea how this debt of
£1664 was actually incurred.
Shelter Island 12 January 1767
Book: 3
Honorable and Worthy Sir
Number: 235
When your son was in Boston I received a letter from my brother acquainting
Date: 1/12/1767
me of the conversation with him in which he offered if I would make over
To: Thomas Lane, London
all my personal effects to him provided they amounted to the sum of £500
From: Thomas Dering
sterling after allowing myself a few necessaries he would let me enjoy them
Place: Shelter Island
during my natural life and would give me a full discharge of the debts due
from Thomas and Henry Dering to Messrs. Lane and Booth Esq. When I
received his letter I was very much indisposed by sickness but as soon as I
was able wrote him an answer that I would do it and took an inventory of
all my effects without allowing myself or family the least necessaries of life.
Sometime after I sent the inventory to my brother but both your son and he
were gone from Boston and my letter was returned. Since which Mr. Levinus
Clarkson delivered me your letter of 20 August 1766 together with your
accounts current in which the balance due from Thomas and Henry Dering
is £1664.28 which you desire I would discharge as far as is in my power
which am heartily willing to do but to discharge the whole is not in my power
ever to do. I took on my fate hard as I left all the effects of the company with
my brother when I left Boston and he told me he would pay that debt.
Tis certain we lost considerable by fire and bad debts but how we should
fall so largely in debts cannot account for though believe it justly due to you
that the same time and assured it has not arisen by any extravagance or idle
spending in myself or family. Have agreed with Mr. Clarkson to pay £1000
provided you allow me 10 years to pay it in pain 100 pounds a year until
the 1000 pounds is paid and an interest of 3% which he insists upon which
am willing to do if it shall ever be in my power. And he is to give me a full
discharge of the debt due from Thomas and Henry Dering provided you
agree to it and engage not to molest me which will really be making me your
154
slave during life. My circumstances and situation is really very distressing nor
can I see any way unless you accept the offer but that I must be miserable
and my wife and children beggars, rather than the latter would it not be
better to spend the few days allotted me in a prison which I would hope in
your goodness and clemency you would not afflict me with the punishment
of.
I have heretofore experienced of your leniency and friendship and hope
in God to enjoy it still. I have met with great misfortune in being obliged
to pay large sums of money for other persons before this to the value of
several thousand pounds which disables me to pay you your just debt. I had
something handsome from my father and considerable with my wife but that
is gone and both of us brought up very tenderly which makes it extremely
hard to be brought to poverty and our poor little children to be beggars in
the streets. Pray sir let me hope in your mercy. I doubt not the blessings of
God will attend you for it and to abate the interest of 3% I fear shall never be
able to wade through with the burden but do assure and promise you if ever
it shall please God to bless the work of my hands or any way enable me I will
gladly pay it and willing to slave hard and live poor all my days. I am dear Sir
your distressed friend and obedient servant at command Thomas Dering
Thomas Lane, Esquire
Book: 3
Number: 236
Date: 2/19/1767
To: Thomas Dering
From: Samuel
L’Hommedieu
Place: Sag Harbor
Book: 3
Number: 237
Date: 3/2/1767
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Edwards
Place: Boston
Sag Harbor February 19, 1767
Sir
I am very sorry that I disappointed you by not getting your money by the
time I could not get it no sooner I have sent you now by Mrs.[-] Brown
£7.6.4 which was balance due. The cows came to £11.16.4 paid £4.10.0.
[Due] £7.6.4.
To Thomas Dering
Sir your humble servant Samuel L’Hommedieu
Dear Coz
Boston March ye 2
I received yours of January and was surprised you had not received my
letters that I sent last fall with Mrs. Dering’s and what I had wrote you about
your hat that I could not get one made for you. Tell Mrs. Dering her ticket is
a blank and could not get her another as you desired me to pay the money.
I had to the secretary for your cloth which I did. I am very sorry for your
misfortunes. I had heard of it before John Lane spoke of it when he was here,
as to what you have of Lane in your hands. I pray you never let that trouble
you. I wish that was all you owed. I do not want it at present and it may be
that I never may. I have just said the same to poor Mrs. Wentworth for near
200 pounds. I have had my days of adversity and almost want. Oh that I had
a thankful heart. I am as happy as I can be in this life. We all have our turns.
I always hoped that my good days would be when I was in the decline of life
and it is so.
But to say a little about our friends. John Cotton is shut up Mr. Goldthwaite
was bound for him in the excise office 1000 pounds lawful and at present
155
is not like to get one penny of it. You know in these cases there is often [-].
Johnny is much blamed but I know nothing about it so shall say nothing only
that I am sorry for him. As to Mr. Gooch I believe he has not one copper
that he can call his own. She takes boarders and they do the best they can. As
to Mrs. Wentworth there she is in the house at present. What she will do I
can’t say, yet I believe she expects Jack Wentworth will be kind to her. George
Brinley is gone to Jamaica. He is shown expected and then I hope to hear
from Harry poor fellow. Mrs. Watson is dead. A dreadful stroke to the judge
and lady. Mr. Turner is ready to pay your legacy if you will send your receipt
or whatever is need for. I suppose you must write him and say who you will
have receive the money if you won’t come and receive it yourself. Why can’t
you step aboard a vessel. Mr. Adams will stay with Mrs. Dering if she can’t
come with you.
Neighbor Huse longs to see you. She says she would be very glad of another
of your brooms for hers is wore out. I suppose you have heard of the great
fire we had the first of February. It began at Davenport’s bake house that
was the bray worked in it that set Williams for it of fire. It burned from 10
at night till three in the morning about 20 houses it run down and burnt
the house that was Capt. Parnes in four straight. Your friends all want to see
you and would be glad if you would come and make them a visit. I should
be glad to see you and have a little talk with you. I wrote you some time
ago that I had got your fathers books and yours and Harry’s. I believe there
is two different parcels of them. They are safe here. Mr. Pemberton and
Elliott dined with me last Thursday. They asked very kindly after you and
whether you made a good farmer or not. Col. Jackson desires to be kindly
remembered to you. How does Comus behave now? Miss Becky Lloyd is
in town. John Cotton has got two children a son and daughter. I don’t think
of anything remarkable more than what I have wrote you unless anything
should offer before this goes. Pray remember me to Mrs. Dering and Mr.
Adams if with you. Mr. Edwards desires the same. Pray don’t he never talk
of coming to Boston again. Why don’t you send your friend Smith [Charles
Jeffrey Smith of Brookhaven] along or bring him with you. I shall be very glad to
see him here if he is such one as you represent him to be and I should think
his brethren in the ministry will be glad to see him. Tell Sylvester I want to
see him and if I could I would which concludes me yours affectionately as
ever Hepzi Edwards
Book: 3
Number: 238
Date: 3/11/1767
To: Thomas Dering
From: Noah Welles
Place: Stanford
Stanford March 11, 1767
Sir
Agreeable here desire I have got your cloth dressed which I now send and
hope it will be to your liking. The clothier here has endeavored to follow
your directions as to the color which he thinks will stand. He tells me there
is 10 yards. His price for dressing 1/9 per yard. Our family (through divine
goodness) are in the health accepting aged mother Wolsey go for four years
has been attended with infirmity and seldom will for any considerable time
together.
I once had the pleasure of seeing Mrs. Dering she [-] an opportunity of an
acquaintance with your [-] alliance to which I can truly say I value my self
156
not a while. Mrs. Wolsey and Mrs. Welles join me in friendly salutations to
you and Mrs. Dering and in kindest regards to Sister [-] and the doctor. We
want much to hear of Mrs. Muirson state as to health. Wishing the best of
heaven’s blessings to you and yours I subscribe your sincere friend and very
humble servant Noah Welles
Book: 1
Number: 7
Date: 3/12/1767
To: Thomas Dering
From: James Reeve
Place: Southold
I take the freedom once more to write to you. My family are all well through
Divine Goodness as I hope yours are in such malonious times respecting
things of ye greatest importance among us. I think in Southold in a general
way a loss for Oyster Ponds, a loss for Southold, always a loss for Cuchogue
a loss for poor weak Mattituck, and a loss for Aquebogue both the [-] and
separate part and poor Wading River, iniquity abounds errors and heresies.
I fear greatly miseries, miscarriages [-] and the loss and tears of many. I fear
greatly wary [-] and the end of the world.... The word shall be saved ....
Book: 3
Number: 359
Date: 3/12/1767
To: Thomas Dering
From: James Reeve
Place: Southold
….
Book: 1
Number: 8
Date: 3/19/1767
To: Thomas Dering
From: Charles Jeffrey Smith
Place: Brookhaven
Brookhaven March 19 A.D. 1767
My dear Sir your kind of favor of the 16th ultimate arrived in season, but
want of opportunity prevented my acknowledging it sooner and even now I
fear this will have a winter passage as it is to lie by until opportunity presents.
I long to make you a visit but fear my circumstances will not soon admit of so
great a pleasure.
I have nothing material to acquaint you of except that Mrs. Aspinwall have
given him great joy to her friends and transported her husband by giving him
two fine boys who as soon as born weight 18 pounds.
How should we rejoice because unto us a child is born, unto us a son is
given whose name is justly called wonderful, counselor, the mighty God, the
everlasting father, the Prince of Peace may we have an increasing affection
and a growing conformity to him.
I heartily pity Mrs. Muirson and beg that divine grace may cheerfully
reconcile her to the divine will. How strange yet how common it is that
Christians are loath are very unwilling to die or unwilling to be released
from prison both to commence Angel - backward to be completely holy and
perfectly happy did we with the good apostle die daily it would dismantle the
thing of terrors of all his terribles and transformed that last enemy into our
best friend.
157
Pleased to present my sisters and my best regards to Mrs. Dering and the
little olive plants around your table and continue the weekly concert of
prayer which is done after a sort on the part of him who is my dear sir your
affectionate C J Smith
Book: 3
Number: 239
Date: 3/23/1767
To: Thomas Dering
From: Nat Ray Thomas
Place: Marshfield
Book: 3
Number: 240
Date: 3/25/1767
To: Thomas Dering
From: Roswell Saltonstall
Place: New London
Book: 3
Number: 241
Date: 4/9/1767
To: Thomas Dering
From: George Muirson
Place: Brookhaven
158
Marshfield 23 March 1767
Dear Sir
After many resolutions to write I now set down to inquire you and Mrs.
Dering and little ones health and welfare. Was pleased with your gaining the
bounty upon flax. Every circumstance of good to you or your’s will always
give me pleasure. Mrs. Thomas often recollects with me the past happy
scenes of our once happy family, and at the same time remember Mrs.
Dering and my remarks on the gay and superficial world and the uncertain
enjoyment. Sure to see them so literally verified in our family since you left
us is more than anyone could imagined.How are those family changed some
reduced from affluence to dependence and others left these native country
having lost their reputation and all and those houses once the seat of our
social conversse now the habitation of strangers such the retrospect give
view of a family once enjoyed once to rest now almost forgot and lost. These
things continually happen in the moral world. Now they are immediately
for our improvement and may we never [--] our hope upon him on those
objects that can never yield any solid and lasting peace of mind but upon
that foundation who’s builder and maker is God. And now must pray you
to look over my [-] you don’t find nothing out of order to William Thomas
in the two or three first years after it commenced; Viz broad cloth and like
wise pray to know whether to his proper my note of hand I gave you upon
part settlement of the estate should remain against me? Your answer to
those particulars will oblige me. Should be glad to know your husbandry or
particular improvements and if any satisfaction here after May augment you
with mine. My sincere regards to you Mrs. Dering and little ones in which
Mrs. Thomas joins me concludes me your affectionate brother Ray Thomas
New London March 25, 1767
Sir
Yours of Mr. Adam’s received now is send you for Mr. Webb one gross
corks and one penny worth being the exact balance due you. We are with
complements to Mrs. Dering and senders of our best services. Your very
humble servant Roswell Saltonstall
NB Bal of Book 4/1
Brookhaven April 9, 1767
Sir
We arrived here Saturday the fifth proposed to send you a horse. On the
Sunday following my son objected to it as the gray horse had gone twice last
week with carriages from Southold. He waits on you now with yours and
our thanks. We want nothing but an opportunity to manifest our gratitude
therefore and the many other favors and [--] conferred on my poor wife. God
Almighty [-] the like and sorrowful occasion in your family. Not to dwell any
longer here and to say [-] the [-] of the narrative of our travels we got to
Deacon Reeves on Thursday night where we were host kindly and friendly
but [-] the next day to see Phineas Fanning where my wife stayed two days
with no less kindness and care. Thursday morning set out for Frederick
Hudson. Arrived safe before sunset. She kept better. they are [--] She done
some in a month and not one these three days past more well than usual.
Her cough fever breathing much better, sleep [--] but that terrible [-] tumor
remains very large, a great deal of love she gives. The sincerity of which you
do not doubt. I has been much horrified in my [-] came up 10 pounds. I
am much sorry for however have found time enough to make you light doses
of pills which I did by my son to be for his way [-----] plentifully of the 10 I
prescribed and if in anything else I am [-] you. You may be [-] of the utmost
of my skill there in my regards to your good lady [-] the same is my love to
the children from Sir your servant obliged [----] George Muirson
Book: 3
Number: 242
Date: 4/27/1767
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Edwards
Place: Boston
Book: 3
Number: 243
Date: 6/26/1767
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Adams
Place: New London
Dear Coz
Boston April ye 27th
I wrote you a month ago but could not find an opportunity to send it until
now. I shall send you what I then wrote as to the money that I wrote you
about. I hear you have ordered it to be paid to Mr. Hubbard. George
Brigham is returned from Jamaica. Says poor Harry is well. I suppose Mrs.
Wentworth has wrote you that she has heard from her daughter Apthorp and
then she is in expectation of Jack Wentworth. And now I must inform you of
the sudden death of Parson Hooper who was well in his garden and dead in
a moment. He was buried this day. Dr. Chauncey and Dr. Boils were two of
his bearers so it was Good Friday and they could not get any of the church
clergy. Dr. Canner was sick and so was [-] David Jefferies sick but a week
and dead. Johnny Cotton still confined. Mrs. Gooch much affected with her
Parsons death; it is an awful thing. Mrs. Greene says she longs to see you and
desires me to write you so all your friends wants to see you. Gov. Wentworth
is expected every day which is all at present. from yours affectionately Hepzi
Edwards. Mr. Edwards sends his regards to you and yours and would be glad
to see you here. Tell Mr. Adams he must come and see me. Tell Sylvester I
long to see him.
New London June 26, 1767
Dear Sir
I will not attempt at an excuse for my long silence (as I am sensible I can
make no valid one) though I would still hope for your candid and favorable
interpretation of it, especially since I have so proven [-] an advocate for
me even in your own breast, viz. your own backwardness in writing to your
friends whom nevertheless you greatly love and respect. However though I
have not wrote, yet I can truly say I do not forget you nor yours. I inquired
of Col. Saltonstall at your desire concerning that new [-] of hogs that he has
and whether he would oblige you with some of them upon any terms. He
told me he could not at present, but as soon as he could he would gladly do
it. But when I learned from him of some others in mischievous nature, much
beyond the common sword, I concluded they would not serve your [-] and
have said nothing further about them.
159
I send by the Beaver your [-] and the Royal battalion for Master Packer,
though I hope he has made such progress in leaving as by this time to have
no need of it. I have not as yet got a thimble for Miss Betsey to my mind;
however I send her a small pair of scissors to cut out her work. In sending
when the symbol comes with this I send you her 58 sermons. I have not read
them in [-] but by what I have seen of them in revising the [-] and dipping
here and there in them I think they are calculated and adapted to serve in
cause and of interest of religion in our churches. When you have read them
be pleased to forward them to our friend Capt. P Fanning. I think they are
much-needed in his neighborhood. I found my brother much better than I
feared. A few weeks ago he had a return of his fits from which he had been
free for [-] a 12 months past. He is now tolerably comfortable and he with
his wife sends compliments to Mr. and Mrs. Dering. I hope you will write me
soon. With my best regards and affection to Mrs. Dering and the children
and proper respects to all inquiring friends I subscribe your sincere and
affectionate friend and humble servant William Adams
PS I should be glad if you could collect, at least so much of which is due
to me on the Island as to pay what I owe to Mr. Hudson. Mr. Nicoll’s
subscription will amount to [--] something above 50/
• Since there are many instances of first and second cousins marrying each other in the colonial period it seems strange, indeed,
that Thomas Dering would be making pronouncements about the evils of second cousin marriages.
June 30 AD 1767
My dear Sir
Book: 3
This moment Dr. Muirson informed me that he was setting out for the East
Number: 244
and both to lose so good an opportunity I sat down (though in the midst of
Date: 6/30/1767
company) to write a line just to acknowledge the receipt of your very kind
To: Thomas Dering
and truly friendly letter, which has greatly endeared you to me. As you have
From: Charles Jeffrey Smith
given your sentiments with that openness and frankness which Christian
Place: Brookhaven
friendship dictates, the objection of consanguinity to which you mention
has been before suggested which led me to consider both the carefulness
and expediency of it. The result of any animadversions I drew up in writing
a copy of which should be glad to transmit you – – but they containing
more than a sheet -- and the Dr. fixing to go of immediately must deposit
to another opportunity – – your objection that the intermarriage of second
cousins is prohibited and of consequence is to me a new sentiment and as I
cannot recollect any passage of Scripture which favors such a doctrine should
be glad to know what the [-] is founded on.
I long for the pleasure of a personal [-] for its slow talking by letters but
when I may expect such a favor cannot (for obvious reasons) so much as [-]
you will be so kind as to make us a visit after the [-] is over, which would be
agreeable to us all. – – I pity and bemoan your destitute circumstances with
respect to a preached gospel – – May the Lord of the harvest provide for you
and make up that deficiency by so much the greater communications of his
Holy Spirit – – while in the world we must suffer tribulation – but oh what
joyful thought! “In Christ we may have rest” let this support us under every
160
trial and keep us loose from the world – – a wretched world which with the
dearest connections that can be formed in it, in but a dungeon compared
to our father’s upper house, where we shall ere long meet and be perfect
in holiness that is completion in happiness – Pray we both ripen fast for
admission there – – Mrs. Muirson (in whose company I scribble this) desires
to be most particularly remembered to you and yours though the doctor I
refer you for the state of her health – – with the most affectionate [-] to Mrs.
Dering and the children I am my dear Sir constrained to conclude so much
to say have time only to add that I am your affectionate CJ Smith
• It was comforting that Thomas would acknowledge his error.
Shelter Island 10th of July 1767
Book: 3
My dear Sir
Number: 245
I am set down to write you an answer to yours of ye 30th. [-] and send
Date: 7/10/1767
it when I have opportunity. Don’t know but it may be asking too much to
To: Charles Jeffrey Smith
desire I may hear from you as often as you are troubled with my epistles, but
From: Thomas Dering
as you delight in doing good are always pleased when you afford profits or
Place: Shelter Island
satisfaction to your friends. Take of the freedom to ask the favor you would
let me hear from you as often as leisure will permit as your letters always
give me the greatest pleasure and hope are profitable -- when a person has
been mistaken or reported anything for a truth that is not so I think the
greatest honor he can do himself is to knowledge his error. When I wrote
you last thought I was right with regards to the unlawfulness of second
cousins marrying and have endeavored since to find the passage of Scripture
referring to it but cannot. It has always been fixed in my mind as a fact
they were so but believe have held it by tradition only, nevertheless am not
altogether so easy in my mind with regards to your affair as I would choose
and hope to be and desire you would favor me with your [-] upon the subject
– – Leviticus 18 and 6 none of you shall approach to any that is near of him
when [-] and then mentions a number of [-] of which I think there is not so
much or in your case of that is of consanquinity – –
I pray and hope for your being happy in companion for life and for our
cousin Betsy and if it will the will of God you may be so in each other and
if you are both convinced of the lawfulness and expediency of it don’t be
long about it. Were in my case should choose to consummate the affair while
her mother was living and that she might have the satisfaction of seeing her
two eldest daughters disposed of agreeable to her mind but submit the affair
– – – – pray any kind love to dear Mrs. Muirson and family should rejoice
to hear she is reconciled to death and heartily acquiesce in the will of God.
My care is melancholy, no hopes of any preached the gospel in this place or
any school for our poor children – – a certain truth this is a wretched world
we live in and if it were not for the joyful thought in Christ we may have
rest I should be most – – unhappy, and convinced God if not confined to
ordinances and have – – experienced of his goodness in the communication
of his blessed Spirit at home but am longing for it to be with me as in times
past to have that blessed fellowship which have been partaken of in his home
and at his table – –
161
What can (I hope) truly say with the Psalms “as for God his way is perfect”
hope you are particularly mindful of me in your secret retirements as I am
daily so of you – – I am so often called upon while writing that I fear this
will be but little connection in [--] as it only contains a few scrapes of those
thoughts which are frequent upon my mind – – my love to the lady [-] I long
to see you all but am as much at a loss to say when I may hope for it or you
can be I am my dear Sir your most affectionately [-] the Mrs. Dering sends
her love to all friends
to Mr. Charles Jeffrey Smith
• Born in 1758, Sylvester was nine years old when he went off to school to prepare for college. His master was Nehemiah
Barker of Mattituck. It was a blessing for Sylvester that he was not sent much further from home.
Mattituck August 12, 1767
Book: 3
Sir and Madam
Number: 246
As I conclude it would be gratifying to parental affections to have some
Date: 8/12/1767
journal of your son abroad even from day to day. I embrace the first
To: Thomas Dering
opportunity occurring to transmit you accounts from the ferry to the present
From: Nehemiah Barker
time. Your son seemed quite cheerful in his progress till within 2 miles of
Place: Mattituck
my house. I thought there seemed to be some flagging of his spirits when I
proposed to him to try a berth behind me, which he seemed to be refreshed
with and said the rode more easy but was almost tired. I made stops on the
road so that it was after sundown when I got home. This companion in
travail refused lodging with him. Whether that or the coming on of darkness
or reflection upon his leaving a fair country seat for a depressed home or the
face of strangers or these together I can’t say. He soon began to shed tears
and said no more or less of his grievances but that he was tired. We soon
dismissed him with Samuel Paine to the bed where he slept away his sorrows,
rose with a countenance, which became quite cheerful by school time when
he had more companions. He read and spelled with them manfully, wrote
down the copy he had wrote upon before he left home. This forenoon he
has attended the reading and spelling exercises and perfected his memory in
the first of Cheever and the last he recited to me before dinner was this. In
Latin speech are these eight parts &c down to Tuterjee.” Since dinner I see
him very cheerfully assisting of Samuel at the grindstone grinding knives,
sometimes turning the grindstone and sometimes holding a knife upon when
he retired to the chamber without my direction to his study. For upon calling
him he now comes down with book in hand upon telling him I was writing
to parents questioned him what I should write whether he were home sick
he replies no I am not homesick but that I might write his duty and that he
wanted money. How much I asked. As much he replies as will be pay for that
which I was told to buy: two or three shillings, thus for a journal &c. I cannot
enlarge fearing the departure of your bearer Capt. Hubbard. These with
grateful acknowledgments of kindness in which my wife joins with me and in
sincere compliments from sir and madam your friend and servant Nehemiah
Barker
I am informed Mr. Smith is married.
162
Shelter Island 28 September 1767
Book: 3
Capt. Vail
Number: 247
Have sent by you 126 bushels of wheat which desire you would sell for the
Date: 9/28/1767
most you can get and purchase the under mentioned articles for me and you
To:
will oblige your friend and humble servant Thomas Dering
Major Benjamin Jonathan Vails 2 skeins of silk twist to suit the pattern scent of a cinnamon Color
From: Thomas Dering
1 skein sewing silk the same color
Place: Shelter Island
1 1/2 dozen of fashionable best yellow double guilt coat buttons
1 1/2 dozen of waistcoat ditto
1 skein of silk twist suitable to the dark patter sent
1 1/2 dozen strong white metal buttons for children’s waistcoats
1 yard Buckram
2 hundred lath nails
1 hammer
1 half bushel the best and strongest you can get
one loaf of English single refined sugar
100 large tax with flatheads
PS please to pay Mr. Daniel Tuthill 3 pounds 10 shillings out of the proceeds
of my wheats yours as above Thomas Dering
• Mary and Thomas Dering were now the parents of three children. Sylvester was nine and at school in Mattituck.
Elizabeth was five and Henry Packer was four.
• Sarah and Nat Thomas now had five children. Nat was twelve, Henry seven, Sarah five, John three, and Mary one. In
spite of his pleas of poverty, he was about to embark on building a new house. “It was ‘the largest improved estate in the
county’ with many outbuildings including a barn, stable, blacksmith shop, smoke house, bake house, harness shop, a tannery
and a counting house.” [Krusell, Cynthia Hager and Betty Magown Bates, Marshfield, A Town of Villages, 1640-1990,
1990, page 14-15]
Marshfield November 20, 1767
Book: 3
My dear brother
Number: 248
It is long since I had a line from you though I have wrote you several
Date: 11/20/1767
times. I should be very sorry to be deprived the happiness I receive from
To: Thomas Dering
a correspondence, though I at present must be debarred from that much
From: Sarah Thomas
greater satisfaction of a personal conversation. I most sincerely sympathize
Place: Marshfield
with you in your present misfortunes, which I the other day hear, by accident
of, though, I perceive I was the only one in the family that was a stranger
to them. I hardly wish it was in my power to give you the highest mark, of
my sincere friendship, in something more acceptable, than a gray pen can
communicate. This is a world of troubles sorrow and disappointment. One
family after another seems to be visited– and none at present that I know of
more exercised with troubles then our family is – I trust these things will be
made to turn out for our spiritual good, and that God will be pleased to make
up the loss of creature comforts and in enjoyments in himself and in his son
Christ Jesus. I have long lived in hopes that there would be some turn in
affairs so that a honest industrious man might live without being strained and
harried needs all his days. But I find every year does but increase trouble and
there is no satisfaction to be found in this world of sin – – necessity obliges us
to be providing somethings in order to build us a house for ours is now really
not habitable.
163
We have but one bed we can lay dry in when it rains and you may almost
pass in a corner from room to room. I trust a kind Providence will keep it
from falling over our heads this winter, and Mr. Thomas proposes if possible
to set up some sort of a one in the spring if he should live in order for
which sorely against his inclination he has determined to part with some of
the farm if there be any money to purchase it with but it seems to be gone
entirely out of this part of the world. – – I wish it was in my power to make
you a visit, for I long to see you all, but it is now above two years since I was
in Boston, and many has been the changes in the families in the time, but I
cannot make out even to go as far as there.
Every year I find I am less able to leave my family, for I have no help but
Dinah and Molly and the most ignorant little girls in the world, that you
made judge I could have but little comfort in leaving the children with them.
I have wrote my sister, as well as you more than once but have not had
the pleasure of receiving one line in return. However do not mean to be
ceremonious. If I had time to write by this opportunity, but fear if I do shall
miss sending my letters so must conclude with my kindness love and respect
to you my sister and the dear little children, which Mr. Thomas joins me and
I remain your most sincerely affectionate sister Sarah Thomas
Book: 3
Number: 249
Date: 12/5/1767
To: Thomas Dering
From: Rosewell Saltonstall
Place: New London
Book: 3
Number: 250
Date: 2/1/1768
To: Thomas Dering
From: James Reeve
Place: Southold
Book: 3
Number: 251
Date: 2/19/1768
To: Thomas Dering
From: Thaddeus Mumford
164
New London December 5, 1767
Dear Sir
Yours of second received in answer, desire you’d send me the tub butter at
£11 pence pli by the first boat – horses and do not want this season – – best
compliments to Mrs. Dering and and with do regards your humble servant
Roswell Saltonstall
One tub butter £3.11.6
Mr. Dering Esq.
Accept a few lines in friendship from your friend. I am much confined with
rheumatism. Came next my family circumstances are tolerably comfortable.
I have heard some time ago of your brother Chesebrough and his wife were
very infirm so as I conjecture very dangerous. I should be glad if you could
give me some account of your latest news about your I suppose you have
heard of the deaths of your people of late in our town, five at least, the last
of which was our neighbor Mrs. Fiske. And now what finally I recommend
to you and endeavored to enforce upon myself more your importunate
prayer for satisfying [-] and let us besiege ye throne of grace with unenviable
importunity ye thrift may be formed in the heart of his preferring people
more and more yet ye gospel may be impregnated with the holy ...... of any
good can be given or but what with germinate in a burst – – O blessed they
that get ...
Groton 19th February 1768
Dear Sir
The day before I received yours of the 25th when I delivered Mr. Webb a
letter for Mrs. Dering from Newport which had laid in our house some time
for opportunity to be forwarded you. The passage boat this winter has been
Place: Groton
Book: 3
Number: 252
Date: 3/12/1768
To: Thomas Dering
From: Roswell Saltonstall
Place: New London
Book: 3
Number: 253
Date: 4/6/1768
To: Thomas Dering
From: Charles Jeffrey Smith
Place: South Haven
so uncertain we have seldom heard from our friend at Shelter Island. Our
daughter now at Newport writes us Mrs. Chesebrough is on the recovery
and mends fast – – you may always rest assured any letter to or from you that
are committed to my care shall be forwarded with the [-] punctuality. The
board of customs for America have appointed Mr. Samuel Fitch of Boston,
their solicitor with a salary not less than 200 pounds sterling per annum. I am
sincerely glad for him and family. They tell us from New York your assembly
has complied with the Billeting Act so-called which seems to be giving up the
point to the Crown contended for. I see you are to have a new election soon.
Mrs. Mumford joins me in compliments to Mrs. Dering – – I am [-] yours
very [-] Thaddeus Mumford
New London March 12, 1768
Sir
Yours of fifth instant is before me. I am sorry I have not had safe opportunity
to prevent your requesting me to remit for the butter received last winter – –
did not know Mr. Adams was bound to your Island or you may depend on
it you should have heard from me – – however the first safe hand shall remit
you – – interim if you could draw on me for amount butter your draft shall
need do honor. I think you hold your draft too high for any market – think
I should be willing to buy if you would sell at 1/10 [-] bushel, of this and
the [-] you have to sell, should be glad of a line for next boat – – I am with
sincere respect to Mrs. Dering and self your very humble servant Roswell
Saltonstall
South Haven April 6, 1768
My dear Sir
I have received your favor of the 16th ult. and when Hawkings pays ye
money shall forward it by first opportunity. I rejoice to hear Mr. Adams is
with you, should be exceeding glad if you and he could make us a visit this
spring. I fully determined to have been at Shelter Island before now but have
been prevented – – I have been so much called abroad of late, and the new
connections forming in our family create so many associations that I cannot
tell when I shall be able to do myself the pleasure of making you a visit, but
shall do it as soon as I conveniently can, as I greatly desire to see you. I was
at New Haven the 25th ult when Mr. Babcock sailed for the West Indies
with a fine gale – – may we all be sailing fast with a gentle gale of divine
influences to the haven of eternal rest. The Presbytery are now breaking up
and therefore cannot enlarge, only that I am with best regards to Mr. Adams
Mrs. Dering and your pretty children. my dear Sir yours affectionately in the
dear Immanuel CJ Smith
• There were three ways to send letters: the post, ship captains, and private travelers. The post, where it existed, was
potentially the safest, but it was also extremely expensive. Sea captains were possibly almost as reliable, but they did not
always go to places where recipients lived. Travelers, if friends or relatives, were ideal, but rare. If strangers, there were
absolutely no guarantees. Hepzi often expressed the common concern that her letters would be read by strangers and her news
broadcast.
165
• Thomas’s brother Henry remained
Boston
in Jamaica,
July ye
but 22nd
Hepzi informed Thomas that Henry’s “strumpet” was dead.
Book: 3
Dear Cozn
Number: 256
In haste I write you a few lines by Mr. Isaac Smith’s son, a very agreeable
Date: 7/22/1768
young gentlemen. If he should come on the Island pray be kind to him. I
To: Thomas Dering
think you will like him. You must like him. What I shall only hint at. Poor
From: Hepzi Edwards
Harry’s creature is dead that he carried with him. I suppose you have heard
Place: Boston
of the sudden death of Parson Hooper – – Mr. Gooch was taken with the
numb palsy a fortnight ago. He lays in a stupid from whether he will ever
be better we can’t tell. She takes boarders. Lewis Debloss’s daughter is with
her. Her mother died suddenly a little while ago. . Pray what is the matter. I
have not heard from you since last December. Mrs. Chesebrough writes me
that she is to make you a visit this summer, which I am glad to hear. I wrote
you that John Cotton was shut up but have not heard from you since. He is
out again. I don’t think of anything remarkable to write you but if I know
when your sister goes I will write you more at long. We hear that Harry is in
business but we don’t know what but expect to hear from him soon by the
Captain that carried them. I wish the bearer of this may go on the Island
that you may see him and hear from your old friends who want to see you.
Cousin Storer talked of going to see you but I believe will not. Remember me
to Mrs. Dering and kiss Sylvester. Mr. Edwards desires to be remembered
to you all, Cozn. Issac goes tomorrow. So in haste I remain yours as ever at
command Hepzi Edwards – – You must come and see us. Do come.
Book: 3
Number: 255
Date: 7/24/1768
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Adams
Place: New London
New London July 24th 1768
Dear Sir
I arrived here thence 5 o’clock after after a very pleasant passage. I find the
family all well. I met my sister a going abroad and as my brother is [-] at
haymaking (of which he has a very fine crop) I have a few minutes of leisure
to write you a line to send by the boat though this minute Tommy is released
from school and by our mutual salutations I am a little interrupted. As yet I
have no opportunity to inquire about your Cider – – so the news of the town
which must therefore be deferred until another time – – I am now going into
town. Remember me to Mrs. Dering and the children and believe me your
sincere friend and very humble servant William Adams
Our garden is in a flourishing state.
Book: 3
Number: 257
Date: 8/5/1768
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Adams
Place: New London
166
New London August 5, 1768
Dear Sir
I was yesterday with Mr. Gardiner about your cider and he tells me he had
found some, that he would do. I went with him to the house to test it but
the people were not at home. I advised to get but one barrel as the season is
now so far advanced and which I suppose he will send by Webb if he comes
over this week, as he was not come last night at dark. I have taken pains to
procure what turnip seed I could for you, and which I propose to send by
Webb. It comes into parcels, the lesser quantity from Mrs. Saltonstall, the
larger from Mrs. Gardiner. If the turnip should suit I hope you won’t forget
Mrs. Gardiner’s. You have had such fine weather for harvesting that I trust
you have err this all your well housed. Mrs. Dering won’t forget to procure
Letters # 206, from William Adams in New London to Thomas Dering.
167
me my winter stockings. Remember me to her and the children. You will
probably have some leisure to write me a line by the next boat. We are all
comfortable at present. My brother and sister send their compliments and
believe me your sincere friend and servant William Adams
• Thomas Dering’s sister Anne was married to James Monk who died in 1768 and his sister Mary was married to John
Gooch who here Hepzi reported as being “in a bad way.” None of this is good news for Thomas.
August ye 9, 1768
Dear Czn
Book: 3
I have not heard from you this long time whether you were dead or alive until
Number: 258
the other day. Mr. Harry Floyd and Lady were at Long Island and he told me
Date: 8/9/1768
that he saw the man that did your business for you and he told him that you
To: Thomas Dering
were like to get through your troubles and if so why can’t Mrs. Dering come
From: Hepzi Edwards
and see your friends. I will make my little habitation as agreeable as I can to
Place: Boston
you and don’t doubt but it will be for your health.
As to the box and trunk that I have I don’t know how to send them safe with
out you knew of an opportunity and would send them to me. It is so long
since I wrote to you I hardly know what I have wrote you and what I have
not of news but we have had a melancholy family. Mr. Edwards youngest son
is dead and the apprentice a young lad that had but a few months of his time
to serve he went to see his friends and was drowned. And all in a fortnight.
The son of a consumptive. Poor neighbor Hulse is dead and the sorrowful
widow Polly is to have Mr. [-]Gray’s son.
Mr. Monk is dead. She has got her two sons who are very good to her. Mr.
David Jefferies is a going to have Mrs. Hannah Winslow and so you see it is
as it was and ever will be, some dying and some marrying. The last news we
had from poor Harry was that he was like to do very well and he hoped to
come home again. I forget whether I wrote you that his woman was dead. I
hope he will take care how he is lead away again. I can’t write you one half
that I have to say to you.
I wish I could see you. The people here are determined not to receive the
burdens that are laid on them so we have great commotions with us how it
will turn out I can’t tell but were I to write you one half of the stirs that there
is among us I do not know but it would take [-] of paper. I suppose you see
the newspapers.
Mr. Thomas has almost got his new house fit to live in, they tell me, but
I have not been there this season. She is like to have another child which
will be her sixth. Harry is down at Cumberland with Mr. Winslow. John is
provided for. Mrs. Greene and her family are well. They are often inquiring
after you and wishing to see you. Cousin Storer often talks and wishes to go
and see you and so doth Ned.
Mr. Gooch is in a poor way and she frets herself to death. She is nothing but
skin and bones. You would be surprised to see her. I hear Mrs. Chesebrough
desires you a visit who I hope will be the bearer of this. Mrs. Wentworth lives
in the old house and her son and daughter Brinley with her. Mr. Edwards
168
sends his regards to you and yours which commend me yours as ever, Hepzi
Edwards. Tell Sylvester I want to see him and give my love to him. Nabby
Green is dead.
• Thomas Dering’s slave London died by drowning. There was an inquest, which confirms that he was considered a human
being.
New London August 18, 1768
Book: 3
Dear Sir
Number: 259
I have yours of 26th ult before me; I am quite grieved that I can’t partake
Date: 8/18/1768
with you in the pleasure and delight that is to be had in Mrs. Chesebrough’s
To: Thomas Dering
company. Had I any suspicion of her being with you so soon I should have
From: William Adams
delayed my return hither. However I hope to have the pleasure of waiting
Place: New London
upon her here, in her way home. I cannot now make a visit to you, especially
as I have engaged at the earnest request of the society’s committee and
many of the people to supply the pulpit here for eight or nine sabbaths next
coming.
Capt. D. Mumford if he can not have notice when his aunt thinks of
returning, will gladly over to you to assist and guard her passage hither to
also see her safe, if God pleases, in Newport. I don’t know but he will write
[-] but if not you may depend upon his coming. If he can but know when
it will suit. – – I condole with you is the great loss you have suffered in the
death of your London. I have been afraid some time that he would some
time or other make his exit that way. And especially since he conveyed me
to Sterling [Greenport] in a canoe when I last left you and so smooth and
good and the time as it was, I could not help being a little afraid after we
had admitted a third person (James Havens), I that myself obliged to warn
London of the danger he [-] of losing his life by venturing so often and in all
weather to cross over in so insufficient a vessel.
Mr. Gardiner tells me has sent of a barrel of cider to you; I tasted some of
the same before he purchased it. I thought it was good and hope it will prove
so. Mrs. Gardiner would be glad to know whether Mrs. Dering depends
upon her for any peppers this year and if she does send word soon that she
may put up some of the finest gathering which is by far the best – – I sent
you some time passed a letter with some quantity of turnip seeds (all that I
could reserve) in two parcels; I hope it came safe to hand – – I am at present
considerably exercised with a cold; the rest of us pretty comfortable. My
brother and sister send their compliments – – please to remember most
affectionately to Mrs. Chesebrough and Mrs. Dering, with proper regards
to all inquiring friends. I am glad you are like to get a of so many of your
burdens from hogs’hind. Col. Saltonstall telling me as I remember that he
had purchased no less than six. I fully expected a line by him. I think the [-]
brings nothing material this week. I add not but that I am your obliged friend
and servant William Adams
• General Gage was boarding at Thomas’s sister Mary Gooch’s house. Comus was Thomas’s slave who had moved with
169
them from Boston to Shelter Island.Boston October ye 24
Book: 3
Dear Coz
Number: 261
I received yours by Mrs. Chesebrough. I was very glad to hear from you but
Date: 10/24/1768
a very sorry to hear your family has been so unwell. You say you have lost
To: Thomas Dering
a Negro man. pray how does Comus behave? I suppose he is done with
From: Hepzi Edwards
wanting to come to Boston. It is true you wrote to me for the box. If I could
Place: Boston
have had an opportunity I should have sent them before now for I know of
no service they could be to anybody here only to fill up their house but I
have sent them now and should have sent them before but I have wrote you
what melancholy family we have had. Your friends have not forgot you they
all want to see you and if you did not live out of their reach you would hear
oftener from them. Tell Sylvester I thank him for his letter but have not time
to write now to him but I think if I could see you we could contrive to bring
him up at Boston. What if you should come and try next spring and see what
we can do. General Gage keeps at Mrs. Gooch’s. Poor Boston is in a most
deplorable condition. What will be the event God only knows but we know
not what to do. Harry was well when I heard last from him. Capt. Osborne is
dead. Mrs. Greene and all your friends desire to be remembered to you and
wonder that you ever do not come and see them. I am sorry to hear by Mrs.
Chesebrough shall enclose the key is and send the boxes to Col. Saltonstall.
Yours as Hepzi Edwards
Mrs. Thomas has got another son. Mr. Sheaff’s wife ready to lay in. Mr.
Edwards sends his regards to you and family.
• Elizabeth Wentworth, Thomas’s sister, recently widowed, wrote her brother a very newsy letter bringing him up to date
about her children and her sisters as best she could. This letter is possibly in response to a letter of condolences that Thomas
sent her.
Boston October 25, 1768
My dear brother
Book: 3
It is an age of time since I had the pleasure of hearing from you. I
Number: 262
acknowledge myself in debt to you a letter and it is not that you are absent
Date: 10/25/1768
from my thoughts which halves prevented my not writing. you have too great
To: Thomas Dering
a share there ever be forgot, it gives me great pleasure to hear you are so
From: Elizabeth Wentworth
respected where you are. But my dear brother shall I never see you and Mrs.
Place: Boston
Dering again.
My friends do all they can to make my life happy and agreeable, but good
heaven! When I see all my family separated from me, I am obliged to muster
all the resolution I am mistress of to show I am able to bear up under
misfortunes. They say it’s an indication of a great mind, therefore my dear
brother let you and I keep up each other’s spirits. You may say it’s your ride,
let it be so. Is it not a laudable one. It’s true our whole family are all sunk in
fortune, but it is the duty of Christians to keep up their spirits, what are we
without hope. Let us look forward who have we to blame. Are these things
not best surely they are, I trust and hope to see our families rise again in our
children.
Our sister Monk is now a widow left as I was without a shilling. She is at
present with her son Jemmy at Halifax. He is just sworn in attorney at law.
170
Harry is on the farm working out the mortgage. Manny still single. Lucy
they say a very fine girl about eight year old and Charles 15. These three
unprovided for. I had a letter from Jemmy very lately. He says he shall do all
in his power to take care of the family and make his mother happy, but he is
very much dejected. Do write Mrs. Monk. It will look friendly.
Harry is still at Jamaica. The Fitches has been very kind to him and he takes
the care of part of their business, but it is to stand on a wharf three quarters
of his time in the blazing sun receiving and delivering out lumber from
morning till night. He says anybody but him would have been dead long
before this time. But we don’t know what we can pass through until we try.
Mrs. Gooch has her health tolerable. General Gage is now at lodgings there.
It is thus our poor sister is forced to get her living by borders and Mr. Gooch
is quite childish.
I expect to hear every day Mrs. Thomas is abed. She looks to lay in this
month. He is building a new house. The old one is so bad they can live in it
no longer. Had he done as his father did afore him gone on in the old way of
farming without trying every new project he heard of it’s possible he might
have finished it but I expect he never will. I have not seen Mrs. Thomas this
several year. Mr. Apthorpe affairs are still in the law, and it very uncertain
when they will be decided, as they are in the Court of Chancery. He is
supported by his mother and brothers, as he can enter into no business until
Mr. Trocolkick pleases who is his only creditor, and helps to support him.
The longer we live in the world the more we see of it. Mrs. Rogers expects
her husband every day from London. I had the pleasure of a visit from Gov.
Wentworth, Mr. Atkinson and Fanny and one Mr. Wentworth, a gentleman
from London, who lives with the governor. They are just returned home.
They very kindly inquired after you. I had knowledged to them I was very
faulty and write you immediately and give their regards and respects.
I have lately received a letter from my son Tam at Oxford. He has now
thoughts of standing for a fellowship at All Souls College. It a place of more
honor then profit, but his good friends Gov. Wentworth and Dr. Canor
are his support and approve the thing. He is allowed 100 pounds tenor
year, the doctor gives 25 and the governor the rest. If it weren’t for these
two gentlemen I must infallible have broke up housekeeping. Here is true
friendship that is continued to the widow and children after the father’s
death.
Mr. Brinley is still with me. He makes a voyage every winter to Jamaica and
that just serves to bring the year about. The summers he spends with us. I
hope something will turn up for him before long for the life he is now in is
very disagreeable to him and business has been so dull that he is afraid of
English goods, though he has many offers from the other side of the water
still is afraid to venture.
Benning continues at given you a description of our whole family and
assure you it is with the utmost becoming I bring the year about, but I
171
am determined by the help of the Almighty to bear up with patience and
resignation whatever He shall see fit to lay upon me. You may leave now my
dear brother to desire you would remember me and a very particular manner
to sister Dering and the children. I esteem love and value them and they
are very dear to me. I shall ever remain what I am a widow and your most
sincere and affectionate Elizabeth Wentworth
• William Adams was quite disillusioned by the people of Shelter Island who do not seem religious enough for him.
New London October 27, 1768
Book: 3
Dear Sir
Number: 260
I have yours of third and 16th instant before me. I should have been careful
Date: 10/27/1768
in returning an answer to each, had I seasonably known the arrival and
To: Thomas Dering
return of the passage boat, which of late has been irregular and out of
From: William Adams
course. However as it is I question whether I am much in debt. I always take
Place: New London
pleasure in hearing from you and sincerely rejoice in the welfare of you and
yours – – I regret your circumstances with respect to public worship, though
at present I know not how to redress it. I think I have not been backward
to assist you when ever I could do it with any convenience though the more
than coolness and indifference of the greater part of the island has (as I have
often told you) been no small discouragement to me, and were it not for your
sake and a few more, I should have no thought at all of returning. I have a
small journey or two to make upon necessary business and some concerns
to settle which will take up so much of my time as will bring it so late in the
year before I shall be at leisure as will probably [-] it very uncomfortable
to pass the sound and besides the difficulty of the people attending the
public worship in ye depth of winter will perhaps render it advisable that I
should delay coming till toward the close of it. However I shall determine
nothing certain until I see how the winter proves. We are here in a broken
and unsettled state still. I have preached four or five Sabbaths here and we
have now a young gentleman (one Mr. Ephraim Woodbridge) who has been
preaching six or seven Sabbaths with us and by what I can learn to universal
satisfaction. Be sure he is a youth of uncommon genius, good learning,
much of an orator, and to crown all, of years quite serious and to have an
experimental sense and acquaintance with religion. But whether we shall be
so happy as to obtain him I am not able as yet to form any judgment.
It’s most likely that if we do not succeed it will be owing to the gentleman’s
diffidence of himself upon the account of his youth (being little more than
22) and inexperienced and consequently unfitted to undertake so difficult
and important a trust – – I can’t give you a further account of the situation
and affairs of Boston than what the public prints may inform you of. The
prospects before us are indeed threatening and alarming. But the Lord
raineth, let the earth rejoice. Amidst all the rage and clamor raised against
America and especially poor New England we have this still to comfort us
that the Lord on high is mightier than many waters ye than the mighty waves
of the seas. – –
We are as well as [-] through the goodness of God. – – My brother has had
none of his fits since my return that have so long attended him, until the
172
night before last when he had one something severe – – he went abroad I
think the next day. He and his wife send their kind regards to you and Mrs.
Dering. You write me word that Mrs. Dering is saving me some wool for
winter stockings. I am greatly obliged to her for her care and remembrance
of me; I hope she will continue her kindness by employing Mrs. Payne or
some other good hand to spin and knit them for me that I may have them
ready for use when I come over to you for I don’t expect to have them sent
further to me. We are now gathering in our Indian corn harvest (three weeks
at best) [-] than [-] which proves but very light and indifferent and which is
the general complaint through the country and by what I hear it is so with
you – – this will probably [-] the prize of English grain – – you see though I
don’t write often I make it up in length when I take pen in hand. But not to
indulge you and and with suitable regards to inquiring friends I am your [-]
friend and humble servant
William Adams
PS As to making grape wine I can give you no direction better than your own
genius and discretion may [-] you with save in general that you use the same
method on them that you do in making cherry or current wine – – we had
plenty of these grapes among us but not in that perfection and goodness as
which in common years and therefore was discouraged as to making wine of
them.
• A honey do list on the back. Worth looking at.
Book: 3
Number: 263
Date: 1/4/1769
To: Thomas Dering
From: Nehemiah Barker
Place: Mattituck Parish
From Mattituc Parish 4 January 1769
Hon. Friend
These Sir may remind you that in the evening you was with us last fall there
was mention made of the death of the wife of Daniel Aldrich of this place
who was left with a numerous family of children and that you observed that
if there were a likely boy among them you would willingly take it and bring
it up to [-] upon your farm and that you would be bound to seat first a one
taught the Coopers trade etc. The next day a neighbor of said Aldrich was
informed of your proposal and if there was a boy in ye bereaved family that
would doubtless answer to your expectation – – and that he would undertake
to try Aldrich in suitable time with your proposal – – he did so – – but
Aldrich soon let it slip his memory till some man appearing and offering
to take the boy brought this proposal of yours to mind – – upon which
he suspended the man that offered til there should be an opportunity of
knowing from you if you continued ye proposal left with us. Whereupon the
boys uncle with me this evening further informs that the boy is near 14 years
of age and is effective of business as he well knows by proof - and that you
may have him if you send for him, two or three months upon probation – or
may if you come for him pass indentures and take him for your own – – and
says that his instructions are from the father of the boy to desire me to give
you this information -Sir
I hope this will find you all well as through divine goodness we are. My
spouse joins me in Thanksgiving to yourself and Mme. for your favors – –
173
the books are in good part read by wife and daughters, which I hope to
return safely after the entertainment they’ll afford. I left the letter for your
son at his lodgings but could not see him – – I made inquiry about your
saddle and Mr. Wells informed me that he did not receive it but expected it
and to dispatch your work in a few weeks [-] your company if you come to
indenture the boy. May our prayers be continued with intercessions – – and
let us not rest short of the in wrought prayer of the righteous which availeth
much – – that we be the priests of the Lord that wait continually in his
presence – – With sincere regards to yourself Mrs. Dering and all yours I am
dear Sir your hearty friend and unworthy brother Nehemiah Barker
• William Nicoll (2) was born in 1702. He was 21 years old when his father William died in 1723. After completing Yale
College in 1724 and his law studies, he set up housekeeping at Sachem’s Neck on Shelter Island in 1726. His first act of
civic engagement was to arrange for the provincial assembly to recognize the Town of Shelter Island which organized in 1730.
He served as the Town’s first supervisor and for most of his life thereafter he served his town’s government in one capacity or
another. In 1739 he was elected to the Colonial Assembly where he continued to serve until he died in 1768, the last nine
years as Speaker. Apparently, on his way home from the Assembly on December 3, 1768 he had spent the night at a home on
Hempstead Plains where he was stricken and died. Jacob Mallman quotes Benjamin Thompson’s 1839 History of Long
Island: “He was a man of sound and discriminating mind, bold and fearless as a politician, and an unwavering asserter of
the rights of and liberties of the colony. In all public acts as a legislator he was diligent and attentive to every duty devolving
upon him.” William never married. He died on December 3, 1768 and his Shelter Island property passes to his nephew
William, the son of his brother Benjamin and known as William (3).
New London January 6, 1769
Book: 3
Dear Sir
Number: 264
Yours of the 26th ult. I received and for which I return my hearty thanks.
Date: 1/6/1769
The first account I received of Mr. Nicolls death I had from a New York
To: Thomas Dering
newspaper which I took up in the printing office and was no less shocked
From: William Adams
then affected with this sudden and unexpected stroke. I join with you in your
Place: New London
sentiments respecting him and really think the colony before the county
could scarce have suffered a greater loss in any one man I hardly console with
my good friend Mrs. Havens in this new scene of trial following so close upon
another equally bitter the death of her sisters – you will please to remember
me kindly to her and Mr. Havens – – My brother has been more than
commonly indisposed for about a week past though he keeps about. The rest
of us are comfortable through the goodness of God. Our young minister Mr.
Woodbridge about the middle of November went to Westwood to receive the
smallpox by inoculation – he had it favorable – he returned to us in about
six or seven weeks. I supplied the pulpit in his absence. There is nothing that
transpires from Boston. But what you have in our New London paper. What
will be the event of the rigorous measures of the British ministry it’s difficult
to say – – I can’t but hope they must terminate in their own confusion – – I
hope to see you before the winter is out -- at least very early in the spring. You
write me that my stockings are finished; I shall take it as a present as favor
if Mrs. Dering will send them to me by the first boat as I am quite out of
winter stockings and shall take care to satisfy all demands when I come over.
My regards to Mrs. Dering the children and all friends. I am your friend and
servant William Adams
PS The packet for Mrs. Edwards I suppose is to be sent by a private hand
and not by the post. I shall improve the first good opportunity that offers.
174
• This is the bill for London’s burial. Note the “licker for ye burial.”
Book: 3
Number: 266
Date: 1/31/1769
To: Thomas Dering
From: Joseph Wickham
Place: Southold
Southold January 31, 1769
Sir, according to your desire I here send you the account of your expense
upon your Negro fellow London that was drowned.
Richard Terry informing £0=3=0
Simon Moore for you coffin 0=6=6
Daniel Booth digging grave 0=3=0
Swore Salmon and Drake 0=2=0
Licker for ye burial 0=2=7
The jury of inquest 0=12=0
My fees 0=12=0
£2=01=1
The constable being gone I took the jury without have made no charge
there of from your friend Joseph Wickham paid the above sent it by Samuel
Conkling
• Sarah Thomas responded to a very melancholy letter that Thomas had written to her. Her newest child, Martin, was her
sixth. Nat Thomas had just completed building her a new house, a necessary improvement as you could not take shelter in
the old one in a rain storm without getting wet.
Marshfield February 10, 1769
Book: 3
My dear brother
Number: 265
Yours of 2 November I have now before me which came to hand about six
Date: 2/10/1769
weeks after it was wrote. I had wrote the week before my confinement to
To: Thomas Dering
Mrs. Edwards to know if I should write you whether she could convey it soon
From: Sarah Thomas
but to my great astonishment she wrote me “no” for that she had sent my
Place: Marshfield
letter but the week before that I had wrote almost a 12 month before. I was
greatly rejoiced to see the direction of your letter knowing it to be your hand
but how soon did the scene change upon reading the contents such torrent
of gloomy and distressing thoughts overwhelmed my breast as I shall not
attempt to describe. It is true I had heard in a distant way that you had met
with some difficulty in your affairs but little did I think you had been in such
trouble and affliction as to have the least room to think you were in danger of
being under confinement a loathsome goal. It is too much for me to look over
that part again.
I bless God with you that you were brought to submit to it as his Holy will
and one pleasure but I trust in his great goodness and mercy it will never be
your unhappy lot but sincerely pray you may have every needed blessing both
temporal and spiritual from the hand of that bountiful God who delights to
do good to the children of men and as I rejoice to find you have experienced
in the two last years. Oh how would it rejoice my heart to have it in my
power to convince you how much I pitied your [-] state but Providence has
never seen fit to indulge me in anything more than just a living and that
but with the greatest prudence we have now six children to provide for, one
indeed at present is with Mr. Winslow. It is true as you mention Mr. Thomas
has a fine farm that is dearest enough but I suppose one of yours is worth
175
3 of his for our land is very thin and as for winter wheat we raised some
exceeding good last year but one half the fields was killed with the winter as
it generally is when we lay so exposed to the sea.
And the market low, labor exceeding high, that the profits are but smaller
and then Mr. Thomas took his land almost destitute of fence quite worn out
and destroyed with being [-] out so long that he has been constantly laying
out money upon it ever since we have lived upon it. He spent a good deal
into pasturing for other people last season as he was engaged in building
and could not attend to tilling much and found it more profitable. We have
removed at last to our new habitation where I should take the greatest
satisfaction in seeing you and my sister if Providence should ever indulge me
so far say may I not hope for and please myself with the thought that I may
once more see you here. However we may be parted God grant we may meet
in the mansions of everlasting bliss here after. Many changes in our family.
Poor Mr. Wentworth and Mr. Monk is no more, besides many other gloomy
provinces. I often think if our dear parents could look out of their graves
whether my father would say as he once did to you, if you remember, upon
your telling him he did so much for others that he would anger his own
children. Oh Tom. I am casting your bread upon the waters for you to gather
up when I am dead and gone. Mr. Thomas’s been gone these three weeks to
Boston where he has not been these two years before, and I have to write him
so must conclude it being late and I obliged to write with my little one in my
lap with my kind love to my sister and your dear little ones which I long to
see. I remain your truly sympathizing and affectionate sister Sarah Thomas
• Note that Thomas Dering owed a “bond” to William Nicoll.
New York 13th of March 1769
Sir
Book: 3
I could wish the safety of your good friend and my much esteemed relation
Number: 267
was confined to you and me alone, but I am afraid many others will [-]
Date: 3/13/1769
it heavily less able to bear it but as it is the will of Providence submission
To: Thomas Dering
becomes our duty and our contentment both. I am obliged to you for your
From: John Watts
offer of [-] and if my small affairs renders it necessary shall embrace them
Place: New York
but my present purpose is to reduce these unimportant matters into a much
narrower compass – – Mr. Nicoll had acquainted me with your bond. I am
very well satisfied with the modes of payment you propose but as I cannot
trouble anybody now my worthy friend is taken from me with the receipt of
the money I must beg you will send it to me here and I will give the proper
discharges – – you will remember I am indebted to you £2.16.5 remaining
due on the money sent for Mr. Clarkson. I am [-] your most humble servant
John Watts
Book: 3
Number: 268
Date: 3/24/1769
To: Thomas Dering
From: John Watts
176
24th of March 1769
Sir
Conformably to your letter of the eighth instant Capt. Forster has paid me
107 pounds for your bond for interest today and among my good kinsman’s
papers, which shall be delivered up to you when those papers are examined
which will be now soon and until that is performed let this be your discharge.
Place: New York New York
I will attend to your business with Mr. Clarkson very cheerfully on all
business and with my compliments to your family remaining your most
humble servant FW Watts
You won’t forget I owe you £2.16.5 on the money went last to Mr. Clarkson
[-] a few days ago your former letter
Book: 3
Number: 269
Date: 4/15/1769
To: Thomas Dering
From: James Reeve
Place: Southold
Sir I write to let you know I got home well last night and found my family
and affairs under comfortable circumstances O, for ye greatest blessing of all
a humbly thankful heart for which I entreat your prayers for me and mine –
– I conceive ye salutation of fallen men to be among the deep things of God
to be inquired into but never fully comprehended. May not we dare to say
respecting ourselves with great [-] Oh Lord why me – – pray accept my plain
homely way of addressing – I have often thought since you told me of the [-]
of your father’s family respecting your self of a passage of sacred Scripture I
think in [-] was not Eban Jacob’s brother O the adorable sovereignty of the
unsearchable in the dispensation of his grace – – and oh how mean returns
can creatures make to God there for. Although sublimated to the utmost
stretches of their enlarged powers and capacities – surely as Mr. Gray [-]
this his soul is sometimes put to lifting the delightful but not burdensome
shown of [-] and ever constrained to cry out exalt thyself oh Lord – – surely
redeemed one [-] how meanly and inadequately all creatures are able to
make one return to God of praise and gratitude not even angels excepted – –
shall unworthy you or even me be of at number oh Lord thou self know.
Mr. Barker said a few words to me about Mrs. Dering [-] about joining in full
communion. I hope her doubts will be removed. I wish all my friends would
conscientiously comply with and practice in the way of all appointed known
and commanded means of God’s appointment – – I conceive means are
for us to be in the constant life and improvement of – – let me endeavored
to trust but not tempt the Lord by neglecting plans appointed commandant
means of grace. May a mournful God direct her and all others to presume in
all appointed means and bless them to their [-] .....
I have received a short account my brother’s son Daniel Reeve of Goshen
has lost his house and near all of values in it as given under oath to value at
350 pounds by accident of fire. His father in law Joshua Brown is now with
me. We are contriving how to proceed in asking charity for his relief. How
people will be [-] is uncertain. I encouraged him to come to Shelter Island
on [-] account if it takes place hopefully I expect to come when Mr. Nicoll’s
heirs meet about your affairs, yours J Reeve
The family are reduced to great straits.
Book: 3
Number: 270
Date: 4/21/1769
To: Thomas Dering
From: Gurdon Saltonstall
New London April 21, 1769
Mr. Thomas Dering
Sir
Your favor 18 Int received also your packet sometime since and for want
of conveyance to Boston send it by Col. Brown of Salem enclosed to Brig.
Brattle advising him it contained matters of importance and cash and
177
Place: New London
Book: 3
Number: 271
Date: 4/27/1769
To: Thomas Dering
From: Gurdon Saltonstall
Place: New London
Book: 3
Number: 272
Date: 5/2/1769
To: Thomas Dering
From: Timothy Green
Place: New London
Book: 3
Number: 273
Date: 7/5/1769
To: Thomas Dering
From: J. W. Watts
Place: New York
entreated his particular care of it. I will send you the money as soon as
possible [-] of cash and indeed each is extreme scarce and beg a little
indulgence – – if you can spare me seed corn of your best sort in ears or
shed enough for 5 acres corn I shall be very much obliged in the field of corn
before your door appeared of an excellent quality which makes me desirous
of getting that for seed and be glad of the corn opportunity. Your most
humble servant Gurdon Saltonstall
New London April 27, 1769
Mr. Dering
Sir
Your favor 25th inst received this morning. I will as soon as possible pay you
for the corns with such interest as you pay. I send a bag and shall be much
obliged for bushels of your best seed corn. Your most humble servant
New London May 2, 1769
Sir
Your favor enclosing a dollar came to hand – – the third year since you’re
having the Gazette will be expired five weeks hence, when there will
three shillings due – – I have already received 15/. The price of a dozen
Catechism is 2/. If with proofs 3/. Have none of Watts Hymns nor Mr.
Janeway’s token for children. I am sure your most humble Timothy Green
New York 5 July 1769
Sir
Mr. FW Hubbard I find called when I was not at home and did not call when
I expected him, however. it comes to the [--] and he left 100 and 2 pounds.
one shilling eight pence with Jasper Drake who paid it me this morning as
[--] my receipt gives him. Immediately I went for Mr. Lev. Clarkson and
asked him his inclination in respect to the payment of all or only a part of
the bond due. He said it was perfectly [-] to him – – upon which I paid him
the over sum of 120 pounds leaving the remainder to be settled when you
shall direct – – you call the money by Mr. Hubbard £102.4.2 but Mr. Drake
says there was no more than £102.1.8. I mentioned above too careful in
giving half [---] nine penny right won’t pay, or you won’t want above three
shillings in the [--] I don’t any Capt. Bailey left £30.15.10 for my hands nor
upon inquiry can I find with any of my family I am very truly served your
most humble JW Watts
• Smallpox was again playing havoc in Boston and Hepzi was on her way to Marshfield to escape it.
Boston July ye 10th
Dear Cozn
Book: 3
I write you a few lines in great haste as I am going this day out of town for
Number: 274
fear of the smallpox and as it is by Secretary Oliver I could not help sending
Date: 7/10/1769
a line to let you know that Mr. Sam Gardiner of Salem is dead. So is Dr.
To: Thomas Dering
Sewal and Mr. Foxcroft. Well may we say help Lord for the godly fail from
From: Hepzi Edwards
among us are friends are all well and desire to be remembered to you. I do
Place: Boston
not think of any thing remarkable but I hope the troops will be removed
178
from us soon since to complete their plague and trouble they have spread the
smallpox among us. We have heard from Harry and he is well and in good
spirits. Mr. Thomas has built him a new house. I have not been there since
so can’t anything about it. I hope the Secretary will call and see you. He
says he will if he can and then he can tell you more then I have time or can
write. Pray remember me to Mrs. Dering and tell her I would write to her if
I had time but I feel so bewildered of getting ready to move out of town that
I hardly know what I write. So farewell for the present, yours as ever Hepzi
Edwards. Mr. Edwards sends his regards to you. Gov. Wentworth has made a
visit here and a tarrying show he made.
• The King, through the royal commission of 7 October 1769, appointed commissioners to establish what would become the
permanent and final border that runs southeast from the confluence of the Delaware and Neversink Rivers near Port Jervis to
the Hudson River. The New York and New Jersey legislatures ratified the compromise in 1772, and the King approved it on
1 September 1773.
New York 25 July 1769
Dear Sir
Book: 3
I left Boston the 11 instant and took with me the enclosed letters imagining
Number: 275
it possible I might have an opportunity of seeing you in my passage from
Date: 7/25/1769
Newport hither and indeed we did anchor off the Oyster Ponds and laid
To: Thomas Dering
there good part of the night of the 16th instant but too far from the shore to
From: Andrew Oliver
attempt a landing. I am here upon what I foresee will prove of very tedious
Place: New York
business, the settling the line between New York and New Jersey. It is agreed
on all hands that surveyors must be sent out and it may perhaps take them
two or three months to return proper plans but if this is like to be the case
(which we shall soon know) I must take the liberty to pay a visit to my family,
even though I should be obliged to return. I beg my kind regards to Mrs.
Dering and your little family and that you will accept the same yourself from
me your affectionate friend and very humble servant Andrew Oliver
• A story of the ages: A young man no longer able to abide his father’s strictures or discipline.
Southold August 17, 1769
Book: 3
Dear Sir
Number: 276
The bearer is my brother who has left his parents and determines not to
Date: 8/17/1769
return to them anymore. He is desirous to let himself out a while. He is a
To: Thomas Dering
farmer and I believe smart and active for business by what I can see. If you
From: John Storer
can employ him to advantage and be a father and friend to him I should be
Place: Southold
glad. He is about 19 years old an age you are sensible, Sir, in which youth are
extremely [-] exposed to temptation and being in full of the vanity of youth.
I did intend to come over myself but ye week is so far spent yet I cannot well
spare ye time. I am sorry to hear of ye indisposition of your amiable spouse
but am in hopes by which I hear she is upon ye recovery. Let her mind be
kept as free as possible from being loaded with care and from [-] thinking
the thoughts of depression will tend greatly to discomfort worry and distract
her. Consider our dear Lord defers thinking and it becomes in his [-] to the
joys in his government. Ye have my beloved friends need of patience yet
ye faint not but yet after ye have done and suffered the will of the Lord ye
may recover the end of your faith ye salvation of your soul. Tis my earnest
179
desire and prayer yet you may enjoy a confirmed state of health and be great
blessing in each church of Christ as well as in your family and in the world.
I was in hopes to have seen you at my house upon your return from Setauket
but I suppose [-] prevented. If you can’t employ my brother I should be glad
you would direct him to Mr. Jonathan Havens – – my wife and babies have
each a bad cold otherwise we enjoy [-] health through given good will. Please
to present my affectionate regards to your spouse and accept ye [-] yourself
from your most sincere friend and humble servant John Storer
Book: 3
Number: 278
Date: 9/25/1769
To: Thomas Dering
From: James Reeve
Place: Southold
….
Book: 3
Number: 279
Date: 10/14/1769
To: Thomas Dering
From: Levinus Clarkson
Place: New York
Book: 3
Number: 277
Date: 10/17/1769
To: Thomas Dering
From: James Reeve
Place: Southold
Book: 3
Number: 281
Date: 11/21/1769
To: Thomas Dering
From: Gurdon Saltonstall
Place: New London
Book: 3
Number: 280
Date: 11/21/1769
To: Thomas Dering
From: James Reeve
Place: Southold
180
New York October 14, 1769
Sir
Mr. John Watts paid me on account of your second bond £120 currency for
which I have remitted the bill of £70 as low and [--] £120.9. I would by all
means have you discharge this bond immediately as you’ll save considerable
by the [-] being so low. As you offered Mr. Webb if he would advance you the
money you would allow him lawful status. I have charged your account from
the time the whole sum was to have been paid and am, Sir, your very humble
servant Lev Clarkson
Southold October 17, 1769
For the enclosed Mrs. Osborn’s letter comes but now to your hand my son
was turned by Providence from coming away [---] contrary to mine and his
inclination what shall I write to you and yours to comfort ....
New London November 21, 1769
Mr. Dering
Your favor 17th instant is before me. The corn I estimated as well as I knew
how – – interest was cast in a hurry. Find I was mistaken and your estimate
is right. Therefore send you 9/5 [-] in full – – will search for bags and send it
you after [-] your humble servant G Saltonstall
...
Book: 6
Number: 514
Date: 12/13/1769
To: Margaret Chesebrough
From: Sarah Osborne
Place:
Book: 3
Number: 234
Date: 12/29/1769
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Phillips
Place: Smithtown
With thankfulness I received your dear letter and present. May God reward
you for all your kindness to an unworthy creature. My dear friend I am not
tired of hearing your [-] butt field with you and grown with you and yet I
want to have your harp tuned for praise and could you but turn your eyes
and realize how great things God has done for you would rejoice and twice
triumph. You have much more reason to do so than to sink and let this
receive you bless God you are not all enmity now for all the language of your
soul makes this evident your morning over the bitter remains [-] to your root
account in this old yet God will graciously take of this discouraging view of
sin and grant you and humbling sense only while the age of favorite fixed
and try ........
Sir
After my kind love to you and all your family hoping these few lines will find
you in good health as we are through the goodness of God. According to
your desire I have found you a man. By all information I can get he will suit
you. He is used to the business. I was glad he was willing to live with you a
year. He told me he would come as soon as you would desire him. I never
asked him what he would work for a year. I desire you to send what you
would give him without a house or with the house and when you would have
him come. I have taken a farm or else my son did desire to come but now
he can’t come but I believe Shadrach Tenney will suit you as well. I was glad
upon your account when he told me he would go to you. Sure I should be
glad to serve you any time. No more but remain your friend William Phillips
December 29, 1769 Smithtown
• On January 9, 1770, Alexander Grant’s friend Ezra Stiles commented in his diary that “This afternoon Hon. Alexander
Grant, Esq. returned here to his family after four years absence, at London and Jamaica.” Four months later, Alexander and
Abigail set off for Boston to embark for London leaving both Elizabeth and Abigail in Newport to be raised by her father
and stepmother.
• The correspondence between Alexander and Abigail in his last months in Jamaica suggests that Abigail was reluctant to
accompany him to London, but he felt he had no choice but to go. He had attached himself to Lord Grant years before and
today had no choice but to do his bidding.
• During this short visit, Alexander Grant had his portrait painted by the Scottish artist, Cosmos Alexander, at that time
painting in Newport. It was the same size as the 1754 painting of Abigail and was probably meant to be a companion to
it. The painting stayed in Newport. [Boonstra, ibid, October 2003, 381-382.]
• The Boston Massacre was a street fight that occurred on March 5, 1770, between a “patriot” mob, throwing snowballs,
stones, and sticks, and a squad of British soldiers. Several colonists were killed and this led to a campaign by speech-writers
to rouse the ire of the citizenry. The presence of British troops in the city of Boston was increasingly unwelcome. The fiot
began when about 50 citizens attacked a British sentinel. A British officer, Captain Thomas Preston, called in additional
soldiers, and these too were attacked, so the soldiers fired into the mob, killing three on the spot (a black sailor named Crispus
Attucks, ropemaker Samuel Gray, and a mariner named James Caldwell), and wounding eight others, two of whom died
later (Samuel Maverick and Patrick Carr). A town meeting was called demanding the removal of the British and the trial
of Captain Preston and his men for murder. At the trial, John Adams and Josiah Quincy II defended the British, leading to
their acquittal and release. Samuel Quincy and Robert Treat Paine were the attorneys for the prosecution. Later, two of the
British soldiers were found guilty of manslaughter. The Boston Massacre was a signal event leading to the Revolutionary
181
War. It led directly to the Royal Governor evacuating the occupying army from the City of Boston. It would soon bring the
revolution to armed rebellion throughout the colonies. [ushistory.org]
• While in London, Abigail wrote regularly not only to her stepmother but also to Anna (Nancy) Ingraham, her first cousin
who married Peleg Brown in Newport. There are references to Nancy throughout the letters.
• On July 29, 1770 Sarah Thomas delivered a daughter whom they named Elizabeth Packer.
Book: 3
Number: 282
Date: 8/23/1770
To: Margaret Chesebrough
From: Abigail
Chesebrough Grant
Place: London
London 23 August 1770
Dear Madame
I wrote you some little time ago by a vessel bound for Boston in that you
have some account of my voyage and present situation. The former was not
only safe but upon the whole agreeable. The latter is indeed surrounded with
temptations. There is scarcely such a thing as religiously observing a Sabbath.
It being here one of the highest days for visiting and amusements. Those
that do not go to their country houses frequent some public walk or give
and receive visits. The quality are all in the country at this season and so are
most of the gentry that have places to retire to. Morning service is attended
by many but I believe very few appear at the evening. Then you will find
every walk throng and every inlet and outlet crowded, teahouses, ale houses,
and every such place is filled and in some large rooms you will find several
thousand assemble.
You can scarce move an arm in an apartment that will hold seven or 8000
people and the same would present itself wherever you look. I went last
Sunday morning to hear Mr. Lawson of Broad Street near Moorfield’s.
It was by much the best sermon I heard since my arrival and Mr. Grant
seems to think of fixing there. He is a gentleman advanced in life and think
something more than morality necessary for salvation. He spoke well upon
gospel blessings and treated his subject in an evangelical way. I am ready to
imagine he does not equal Fordyce but as I have not yet heard him cannot
say. I am obliged to be a little cautious how I venture amongst a throng and
am told his church is crowded. I hope I shall not find him eloquent only for
that will by no means satisfy the hungry soul.
I have not been long enough here to form an adequate judgment but fear
vital piety is a rare thing. Churches are here in great abundance and the
clergy are thick [-] episcopacy greatly predominates and I will leave you to
judge whether true religion does that also. Those of the established clergy
that I have met with are frosty and selfish, a good living seems their aim and
to get or secure that they will not stick at trifles, empty compliments they feed
their patrons with, and assure them of a heaven upon the receipt of favors.
The generous benefactor is with them the true Christian without troubling
themselves to know by what principles he is actuated. The name of Christ
I have scarce heard in their sermons although their service makes such
frequent use of it to censor us is not to do right but sincerely wish they had
more of Christ in their hearts and lips also.
I have had two attempts made as I supposed to rob me. The one was in
Cornwall with Lady G, a fellow seeing I believe my pin cushion took it for
a watch. He jostled against me upon meeting and gave me a twitch just by
182
the string however he did not even get that nor did it in the least alarm me.
The other time I was walking in Morefields and stopped to hear a wretched
looking creature giving account of a sea disaster. I knew it was wrong to
mingle with the gentry that get about such creatures but was determined for
once to satisfy my curiosity. A fellow seeing two well-dressed person amongst
tag and rag came up. He threw himself between me and another woman
(not choosing too soon the side Mr. Grant was) and imputed he fell his face
right on my neck. The necklace I had on glittered a little and I suppose he
promised himself a great booty but I escaped the second time without loss
and know no more than you the dress or size of the person that made the
attempt.
They are so expert in whatever they do and so soon are out of sight that
strangers know nothing of the matter. You will imagine by this that I do not
walk with great pleasure. Upon my word I pay little regard to it only take
care to be upon my guard I even ventured to walk at twilight but take care
to have a good escort. I went the other eve to walk on Tower Hill. The wild
beasts they laugh so much about I did not see but took a view of the Armory.
This you will think to Marshall a site for delicate women but it is truly noble.
And what all Europe beside cannot boast of. There is in one room arms
for 80,000 men and those kept fit for use. Everyone shines like silver and is
enough to glitter a person into courage. In the various and curious forms in
which they are placed delight you. For the ladies may then find several parts
of their dresses far below of pistols and fans of the swords are here to be
found. Sun moon and stars shine forth with great luster and superb pillars
strike you with their grandeur. All those with innumerable other figures are
only arms and afford a most animating and magnificent view –
I intended to have spent a few moments amongst the ruins of haughty men
in bedlam but was too late. Some of the distressed and distressing objects I
saw through the grates but if heaven carries me through the smallpox I think
to make them another visit. Happy would it be if places like those had a
proper effect and were not disregarded because frequently seen. None I think
but must be struck with the first view and it argues great insensibility ever to
see it unmoved – – –
I am under a necessity of mixing Mrs. Wilkinson’s things with yours but hope
they are so marked. It will make no puzzle. Wish your cap and stays may not
be too high for you but be assured they are in moderate taste. The muslin
is not of the finest sort but we think it equal to the lace. The petty coat is a
good one and tolerably well quilted though for the latter you must not send
here. White petticoats are what is chiefly worn here just now. Both silk and
cotton. A white satin one does for any nightgown and I intend some time
hence to exhibit mind. I send the little girls dolls. They are designed to show
the taste as well and to please them. Nabby’s is dressed for misses from her
age to 12. All wear such caps. Sometimes their coats without frocks and bibs
and aprons but chiefly with Holland frocks or long lawn which is prettier.
Make only skirts. As they are thick and do not show the coat through the
broad ribbon round the waist is constantly worn both at home and abroad
and I send some for the purpose. The tacks upon the frock skirt and sleeves
183
are the taste and instead of the ribbon upon the sleeves.
They are to put a little edging or something in that way. The black just in
that form is worn and you may hang a solitaire to the end but I think it
prettier without, though will be better worn with a little white beads hanging
quite loose and reaching near to their stays. I have wrote Nancy my opinion
about making up the cotton sent but if you like frocks better I have no
objection. Their stays and slips shall be sent in season. And I beg you would
send me their measure by first opportunity both for one and the other. I hope
Betsy’s doll will be ready to go by this vessel, otherwise she will be chagrined.
The mantua maker and Milliner are now employed about it and promise fair
in case it should not. It will be sent by the first conveyance. And it is to be
in high taste. I mean so much so as a negligee admits of and I am sure few
with you have any business with a court dress. It is astonishing how expensive
every article of dress is here and you must take great pains to be well served
if the trifles sent you please be glad and hope you will convenience me by
giving me further orders – – – it is a vast relief to my mind to hear my father
is so supported.
Can we doubt from whence it comes or who it is that comforts him in
this day of trial. May his God continue to uphold an hourly increase his
confidence in him. May your strength be increased in proportion to your
burden and the faith of duty be made pleasant to you. Mr. Grant writes my
father shall therefore omit it myself this once. Present to him my most dutiful
and affectionate regards and let him know everything is said and done to
make me happy. [--] endeavors to supply his place and take all opportunities
to assured me of his friendship. His confidence in Mr. Grant is unbound and
I believe may have heard him say he esteems him more then any relative
he has. The clock just strikes two the hour for me to dress for dinner let me
therefore wish you all spiritual and temporal blessings and conclude myself
your dutiful and affectionate Abigail Grant
PS Lady Grant presents her best respect to you and to father so does my
dear good husband.
Book: 3
Number: 283
Date: 2/14/1771
To: Margaret Chesebrough
From: Abigail
Chesebrough Grant
Place: London
London 14 February 1771
Dear Madame
I wrote you about the fifth instant by Capt. Fell and as I do not choose to
let any opportunity escape me I just drop a line now via of Boston by Capt.
White. Was he bound directly to Rhode Island I would send some things
for the children which I have by me but as they must travel a roundabout
way should they go now Mr. Grant thinks it better to defer sending them
till Shand returns. I have a piece of linen for frocks. There are stays and
slips with some other little matters, which is best for you to know that it may
prevent your getting the same articles there.
I propose sending stockings gloves etc. and would send half a dozen of shoes
if I had a pattern but as that is a nice article to fit to the foot and children
may be hurt if they are improperly made shall wait till I have their measure,
184
which I wrote for some time ago. In the meantime I beg what ever they
have made with you may be with flat heels like those already sent. I have not
leisure to write my dear [-] now or to say much to you which is not agreeable
to my inclination for I find writing to America is one of my high regales.
And gives me more pleasure than St. James of a birth night or the grand
assembly of this great city. The latter I was at last week and it was really
brilliant a crowd of company and that both of nobility and gentry to give an
exact account of matters would take more time than I can just now spare and
perhaps afford but little entertainment to you the truly rational life you live
must make you often pity the giddy multitude and cause you to despise what
they call their chief happiness.
The frost is just now equal almost to what it is with you but it will not
continue as I hear we are placed by a kind Providence so as not to fell its
severity. But it is shocking to a tender mind to see what numbers of forlorn
wretches ply in the streets and at every corner and implore your charity not
that they are in general objects of it for no place in the world makes better
provision for the poor. And none perhaps is more infested with beggars. I
hope your fireside enjoys usual health and ease and I beg you would mention
me to each in a proper manner. I cannot write my father just now but present
him my most dutiful regards. We shall not forget the cloak and hope that
both him and you will let us know your wishes for we are really and truly
your dutiful and affectionate children Abigail Grant
Book: 3
Number: 284
Date: 3/16/1771
To: Margaret Chesebrough
From: Abigail
Chesebrough Grant
Place: London
London 16 March 1771
Dear Madame
I wrote you by Rhode Island vessel about the 10 of last month, which
I hope is near hand if not got to you. That was a reply to yours of 13
December. And would I hope remove your scruples about sending your little
commissions to be executed here. Mr. Grant is truly generous but he is at the
same time prudent. You have a large share also of both, surely you cannot
injure each other. At least I will venture it and beg you would freely speak
your mind – – as a token of our mutual esteem I now send by hand a pair of
purple morocco shoes worn in the morning, a Queen’s night cap and rough,
designed also for your Jessabelle, and think it is the thing for you.
We wear scarce any other cap a morning and I often sit at home with mine
the whole day. You may make them of Muslin if you please and then a single
crown answers some of the Muslin I now send Mrs. Wilkinson. Which she
sells will be very pretty and I recommend them for your summer undress. I
have sent many articles for the children and hope they will please. Their slips
and frocks will last some time. I therefore send them good stays they shall
have annually if wanted. If not shall be glad to know. Shoes I send but few
as I have not their measure. But beg they may be kept in flat heels. Stockings
I think we best got there as they last longer knit and can be just to their size.
I now send four pair for each. I send a piece of blue and white linen for
summer wear and as a pattern a common slip made for Betsy with tucker
and puffs tacked in as worn here. Now Nabby’s may be made by it and they
must have bibs and aprons also.
185
I think it best to have Nabby’s things made where she is and they cannot be
a loss when they have a pattern before them. You will doubtless think Betsy’s
silk slip the prettiest but Nabby’s cost near as much and stripes are much
worn. There was not enough of either to make for both and being small
remnants I got them cheap and that is a matter which ought to be attended
to here – – it would surprise you to know what moths silk immerses mantua
makers and milliners are in this place. I have been very particular with
Mrs. Wilkinson as to the mode of dress both for ladies and Missy’s. Will not
therefore take up your time or my own on the subject but refer you to her
who I am sure will with pleasure communicate anything to you.
I shall say something to Nancy upon the matter and wish it may not employ
too much of our attention. You my dear madam have happily passed the
dangerous road of life and now I believe have trod a better path. May your
advanced life be as easy as I trusted will be pious and your example influence
those that have been favored with it. I now more than ever see what I have
enjoyed in that respect and must honor and thank you while I have a just
thought. May my dear little ones know in early life their obligations to you
and in their way make some [-]. May each one in your family be sensible of
your worth and pay you that regard justly due to you. May the influences of
the divine spirit be the grand source of your felicity and ever support you
when attacked by an enemy – –
Mention me to Mr. Dering and family with real regard and let them know I
am ready to serve them. I shall not be unmindful of their daughter sometime
hence but the last year and so the presents have been and are expensive.
But this not to go to them as I wish to act not talk. We are now preparing
furniture for our house which the baronet quits this month. We wish much
you could see us fixed but it cannot be and I must submit Mr. Grant has had
a slight inflammation in his breasts but is now quite freed from it. He writes
my father and sends his [-] it is his wish to gratify you both in every respect
but Providence has hitherto seen fit to deny him that. His good intentions will
I am sure have weight with you both and it pleases me much to have him so
high in your esteem. Accept from my pen his most dutiful regards and join
those of your affectionate and dutiful daughter Abigail Grant
• On May 23, 1771, Abigail Grant delivered a boy they called Alexander William Grant He was baptized on June 20.
Book: 3
Number: 285
Date: 7/20/1771
To: Margaret Chesebrough
From: Abigail
Chesebrough Grant
Place: London
186
London 20 July 1771
Dear Madame.
by Capt. Hefferon
I had the pleasure of a short letter from you and was pleased to find you was
setting out for your country house in Stonington. I have also the pleasure of
hearing both by my father and Nancy that you had made your tour and was
safely returned. I think those jaunts must be of service to you both and wish
they may be repeated every year. I can see nothing to hinder your partaking
of all the innocent and healthful recreations, and I am very sure that your
world excursions are both one and the other. I wish you may have the
satisfaction of seeing your sister and family well and should be very glad if
the muff which I now send to Mrs. Dering may please both her and her
mama which it could arrive time enough for you to take it with you but as
I do not expect this beg you would convey it and my warmest wishes for the
happiness of the family at the same time. Your cloak and bonnet is sent by
Capt. Bardin also and is put in a box with Mrs. Wilkinson’s things. Also a
skin for Betsy’s shoes as I cannot guess at her foot.
The lace [-] which your cloak is made of is a new taste and I think vastly
genteel. If there is a fault let me know it for be assured it is our pleasure to
gratify you. Mr. Grant delights in giving you proofs of his attachment and
believe me when I say his wife is not backward – – You will I hope think me
of good Mason when you hear of the birth of my son indeed it was some
months before my physician or myself knew the true cause of might try
fling complaints and I would ever wish to conceal what may give pain to
my dear connections your side the water. The boy is truly a pretty one and
thrives to our wishes. And could he be conveyed in a letter, I would send
him for a few hours, but for a longer time I could not promise. I fear my
resolution is staggered by parting with my sweet girls and I doubt whether I
shall do him the justice they had. But the trial is very uncertain and therefore
unnecessary to think much upon. His nursery maid is now walking with him
in my dressing room. Where he sends his duty in the manner he is able. As I
have a number of letters to write just [-] you will you will pardon brevity and
be assured that your commands executed at all times with pleasure by your
dutiful and affectionate daughter Abigail Grant.
• The Grants lived comfortably in London. They were positioned to entertain visiting colonials which they much enjoyed.
Henry Marchant was among them. He was the Attorney General of Rhode Island, a position that David Chesebrough had
assisted him in attaining. He came to London to press for the collection of a debt, which the British government had owed
the colony since 1756. Marchant’s diary, quoted by Ezra Stiles, described dining with the Grant, strolling through the park
attending church, even arranging with Abigail to have a silk dress made for Mr. Stiles’ daughter. He even a attended King’s
Chapel when the King and Queen were in attendance. [Boonstra, ibid. October 2002, 381-384.]
London 31 August 1771
Book: 3
Dear Madame
Number: 286
Upon very shabby paper I acknowledge the receipt of yours by Mr.
Date: 8/31/1771
Marchant. He arrived here about a fortnight ago and has been with us
To: Margaret Chesebrough
almost every day since. The business he came upon is not yet brought on the
From: Abigail
carpet that he is rather at a loss to know what to do with himself. Strangers
Chesebrough Grant
as they are called is not soon noticed in this great world but with almost
Place: London
everything else is lost in a crowd. I was at Vauxhall with him last night where
we had a company of at least seven some say 10 thousand people description
of that place I have here-to-fore given to Nancy, therefore shall not repeat
those striking trifles. Indeed what with seeing company at home and doing
the same abroad, driving to see my sweet boy who is now in the country etc.
I have scarce had a moment to myself for several days. Such a life would
render you very miserable and I am sure is not conducive to my immortal
interest. Yet upon the whole I am a recluse compared to the bon ton and
know but little of true high life. But do not think I am always in this way.
This has been my visiting season and I shall soon emerge from this sea of
folly and be the domestic woman – – as I do not hear that the children are in
187
want of anything, I shall spare Mr. Grant the expense of making purchases. I
do suppose they have everything necessary for the winter as I sent a piece of
cotton last autumn. Should might conjecture be wrong they can be supplied
with you and I shall like to know what will be needed for next spring. This is
proper to mention in time as we are placed at such substance and though we
have no assurance of life we must provide for it. I am much pleased that my
dear charmers sing at meeting and wish they may make melody in the ears
of their creator. I have not time to write them now but they have the ardent
wishes of their parents for them.
As I have no letter of Nancy to reply to she is only entitled to my love
of which she has a proper share. Her conduct toward our sweet Nab is
remembered by us and I believe she will always find us friends. Mr. Grant
has been severely attacked by his cough but by the kindness of some good
friends is getting better. His best respects are presented you and he his wishes
for your felicity is joined with those of your dutiful and affectionate daughter
Abigail Grant
• Abigail’s daughter Betsy (Elizabeth) would soon be going to Boston to go to school.
London 3 October 1771
Dear Madame
Book: 3
I had not the pleasure of a line from you by last opportunity but such is my
Number: 287
esteem I will scribble and to please myself it will not be unwelcome. It gives
Date: 10/3/1771
us sincere joy that my father so far came in to the plan of Betsy’s leaving.
To: Margaret Chesebrough
We doubt not of your advice and assistance respecting her the time when
From: Abigail
she is to go. The place where she is to be fixed we leave with you and her
Chesebrough Grant
other dear friends that take such care of her. I doubt not Mrs. Edwards will
Place: London
make inquiries for a suitable place and I propose writing her soon upon it.
Mrs. Powell offers but Mrs. Wilkinson will tell you my opinion as to that. I
have this day been to see a bed, which is working for the Queen. There are
a number of young persons of decayed families which she supports and this
is part of their employment. It has been already in [-] between three and
four years and is only half done. To describe the beauty of the drawing and
shading is impossible but I am sure you would have been delighted with it.
The curtains are a bright pea green accorded silk. The work embroidery
the counterpane a white satin of the same work and indeed the whole fit for
Majesty. I also saw a new set for the royal table of the cream ware. It was
figured with purple and was equal in beauty and delicacy to the bed. There
was 800 pieces to complete the set and cost about 130 guineas. Her Majesty
has indulged the public with the view of it for a time and then it is to be
removed to some of her own apartments. It was made in Staffordshire and
painted at Chelsea. I have scarce wish for you it anyplace more than those as
I know you have a turn for drawing. I have wrote my dear girls and beg leave
to ask your blessing for my boy. Mr. Grant sends his sincerest regards and I
hope you will forgive this short writing for it really comes from the pen of
your dutiful and affectionate daughter Abigail Grant
• Recognition by T. W. Watts for a payment. Cash was always in limited quantities.
188
Book: 3
Number: 289
Date: 1/8/1772
To: Thomas Dering
From: T. W. Watts
Place: New York
New York 8 January 1772
Sir
I received your favor by Mr. Hubbard and Mr. Casey with eighty three
pounds, bond for Lane & Booth so was in consequence immediately
discharged. It is enclosed, by which you will now with, annual interest. The
balance amounts to £75.9.8 left at this moderate charge of 73 [-]. I have
returned by the same hands £8.10.9 which was more than sufficient to
discharge this bond and I thought it unnecessary to retain it idly in my hands
until you sign upon the [-]. Among this money is a counterfeit bill of 32/6
[-] with a paper that enclosed it, that you may convey to the person who
paid it you so it is [-] that it may pass no more – – Much [-] in sum of our
money, is both [-] and counterfeited and both gold and silver counterfeited,
half [-] and dollars – The wretches who commit these iniquitous practice
are Costs to society – – your creditors have no just cause to complain of
your payments. [-] nor need you make any apology for the little sorrows I’d
do you. This world is a [-] of dependency from the greatest Monarch to the
humblest subject and over whose principals does not excite [-]. should. For
how can the man expect good offices -- who will do more it is truly [-] he did
not know. I am sure your most humble servant TW Watts
• Nehemiah Barker’s daughter Bethial had never been well, but she was now experiencing a crisis in her health. Mr. Barker
was suggesting to Thomas that his home might no longer be a good place for Sylvester.
Mattituc January 16, 1772
Book: 3
As your son writes to you from that you are to gather whether he be suited in
Number: 288
being with us or no. Whither we suit him or not. This we have to say he is
Date: 1/16/1772
quite suitable in conduct to us. Seems much more at home and content than
To: Thomas Dering
with us formerly and better turned to his book and inclined to be busy in that
From: Nehemiah Barker
which is useful – – In a word he is all dutiful miss in all goodness seemingly.
Place: Mattituck
I thought it proper to consult his inclination as to studying with me or going
to school, and he discovered his choice was rather studying with me and
learning in my family that he with my daughters has furnished a school daily
till a sad interruption! Bethial who is the principal scholar of my family is
sick. From the day Sylvester came she has been declining in health and this
week is confined to her room mostly to the bed with a fever. Yesterday and
today we have been in exercise about her, thinking her symptoms dubious.
Last night and morning mostly delirious. The doctor with her this morning
ministered what has at present abated the symptoms and given us more hope.
We have been thinking how to dispose of Sylvester should sickness continue
in our family, have that of proposing him to the deacon and to the Justice’s
school. At present that door is shut with sickness though none in that family
at present so sick as is in mine. Should sickness continue in that family
and mine, I think of Mr. Jonathan Whitcomb whose son is learning at his
habitation near school – – Pray write me your mind upon ye affair that I may
act it. These are with hardy love and gratitude from me and mine to thee
and thine, nothing doubling of your sympathy and fellowship with us at the
mercy sent upon reading this which will evidence to you if we lie when we
say we are tried; tried we expect to be but must expect help – – brethren pray
for us – – the ministry received requires joint prayer to ye fulfilling it
189
Letter #245, to C. Jeffrey Smith in Southold from Thomas Dering on July 10, 1767.
190
unsuccessfulness therein will make profits to cry out! How shall the present
ministry with strain themselves iniquity abounds – – judgments are God’s
strange work yet must we know them; who can refrain himself we must cry
and cry aloud and not be silent! For the cyan’s sake we made none of us hold
our peace. But unitedly cry, ye mightily mightily to God. That help cometh
from the Lord we have been learning. As we get perfect in the lesson in ye
way of [-] prayer only. I am in haste hints will suffice when writing to such a
friend and accepted in good part from your friend to serve [-] N Barker
To Mrs. and Miss Dering and with friendly salutation to Miss Brown
Book: 3
Number: 290
Date: 2/8/1772
To: Thomas Dering
From: James Reeve
Place: Southold
Book: 3
Number: 291
Date: 2/8/1772
To: Thomas Dering
From: Nehemiah Barker
Place: Mattituck
Sir
I received yours by care I am sorry I said no safe opportunity of writing
to you for a long time. My family are well at present. My grandson jammy
has been very sick early in the winter in the most different season. We have
had yet were forced to go for the doctor round on need beach but through
divine mercy he got well again but very gradually. You have heard of Mr. B
is gone affliction I think it works together for is family and other good. I hope
it serves as snuffing a lamp of God’s sanctuary yet it may give brighter light
– – I hope I find it go to me and I hope is go to others – – a sad club of our
horrid youth had on still I am afraid they’ll hard to speedy destruction – – I
hope some are serious and I hope more attention to the word you formally ...
Mattituck February 8, 1772
Compassionate friends.
Received your favors by Cato a friendly letter two bottles of wine and
and orange and apples to stay and comfort my dear daughter fitted to her
supposed case useful and fitted to relieve survivors – – Since have been
favored with your letters of condolence. Such kindness is not without remarks
upon your repeated acts of goodness and the goodness of that God who gave
you the heart and gives the reward to the heart. He gives to give to him and
his – – In his covenant whose we are and whom we serve we are supplied in
our needs and have some strength according as our day is – – We think we
want a great deal more than we have and are ready to cry. We shall faint in
the day of adversity. Our strength is so small, yet we do not faint nor despise
the Chastening of the Lord. He is so gracious to us hitherto and we should
be guilty if we should now mistrust his grace sufficient for us and strength
made perfect in weakness. When the time of need is, is his time for supplying
them. So have we found it, and ought thence I suppose to fetch arguments of
faith and hope in God that we shall find as each day requires. “Give us this
day our daily bread” said in faith will proudly bring in for the day. But my
faith may fail for the soul! But is thy complain O my soul to be heard rather
than Jesus Christ who saith but I have prayed for thee that thy faith fail not.
My dear friend I am obliged to see all depends upon the intersession of
Christ on which we have relied for all for ourselves and for our child which
we have ventured upon that believing the promise is as it is said to you and
to your children and hope we have some sweetness in doing so and some
token of the divine acceptance, and thence take encouragement to do so still
with respect to those that remain as yet with us and write this to dear friends
191
to encourage your hope in the covenant and to persevere in it in respect to
yourselves and your children. The child you have with us seems tenderly
affected with ye Providence and it seems to promise a kindly effect on him
rather than upon any of the children of my family. I must hope for them
all and do hope that out of the [-] may come forth meet and from ye strong
sweetness.
I have you see a fresh alarm to set my house in order – – and to be putting
these things always in remembrance, knowing that I must shortly put off this
my tabernacle as my Lord have showed me – I began this year preaching,
this year thou shalt die and we has been a prophesy to one of my branches
and why not to ye stock? Last night and this morning so unwell that the
sentence might be soon made good in another – – but this afternoon soon
well again my eldest daughter seized night before last with fever symptoms.
Still confined to her bed but much better than yesterday in hopes it may go
off – – Wife but just able to keep up since our funeral. Physick seems to have
carried off ye symptoms of the distemper which threatened. Sylvester seems
to have surprising constancy of mind and persevering desires of continuing
in his lot -- if province permit-thus briefly from, Sir, very obedient and
humble friend N. Barker
PS Ten days this morning my daughter mentioned is still mending and so is
my other daughter who went to bed poorly at the time I was writing my letter
last Saturday. Sylvester I observed to have a cold last night and this morning.
Therefore I was proposing to him this morning as we were yet under the
afflicting hand of God and our situation uncomfortable to him it might be
as well for him to go with Mr. Balden home for weekend and he might take
my horse and either leave it at ye ferry to be sent home or carry it home with
him to return with it when he should be better of his cold, had made a visit,
and we hear yet we were still better if it might be ye will of God we should
become so. But like a dutiful son he chose I should refer it to your judgment
before any thing of that kind was done. And if upon a representation of the
case should think proper to send for him, well, as to his time he says he has
no more allotted for Latin then this winter. As the little time he has been
here he has broken providentially and his mine ruffled. Little indeed can
be respected from so little time. Should be glad of longer if I tutor him at
all which I am very fond of doing, Providence permitting. The facts as they
stand I have now related as I can at present suppose sufficiently to one of
your senses. I remain as before N Barker
• Mrs. Barker reported that her daughter had died. What was to become of Sylvester’s schooling?
Book: 3
Number: 292
Date: 2/11/1772
To: Thomas Dering
From: Elizabeth Barker
Place: Mattituck
192
Mattituck February 11, 1772
Very dear friend
I’ve greatly deferred to write to you in this affliction but was so troubled that I
could not and now no not where to begin or end. You may well think that my
exercises have been such as cannot be communicated by me, but Dr. Watts
has elegantly done it to my hand especially in the 77 Psalms fifth part and
28th fifth part. [-] I am ready to say (but it is in haste) there was never such
a scene before, but I recall myself believing in some sort that they has no
temptation befallen me but what is common to men and that God is faithful
who has not suffered me to be tempted beyond what he has enabled me to
bear and that we are still called upon to set up our Ebenezer. But methinks
I hear my Christian friend asking what hope have you any in her death. To
which I would answer and oh that I could do it with the deepest humility
and suitable gratitude that we have a comfortable hope. She soon lost in
a measure the sense of hearing and as soon as her sickness became very
alarming her understanding also, which caused very great anxiety.
Thus dear madam were we shut up to the faith and obliged to repair to that
ancient covenant which is come upon us Gentiles, I am thy God and the God
of thy seed, many prayers were made on her behalf but there was one never
to be forgotten, It was on the Monday evening before she died. I can’t but
think that if ever I heard a prayer dictated by the blessed Spirit that was it,
seemed as one observed like a man talking face-to-face with his friend. In it
was pleading this covenant and an appeal that we had given her to God here
to fore and a declaration that we now did it with a cheerful submission to
his will as to life on death a resolution also not let him go without a blessing
and finally professing a belief that at Christ’s return he would bring her with
him. And what was very surprising the child heard this prayer and says Dada
is praying for me repeating it three times and said that she wanted to die
repeating a Scripture invitation calling upon her sister in these words. Bet it
is high time to pray, but I must forbear. It grows late. O pray for us that we
may duly acknowledge God in this dispensation walking softly before him all
the days of our lives.
I would not forget to thank you for your late kindnesses especially your
affectionate letter of condolence. O for grace to improve upon mercies as
well as afflictions. Betty is very weak and low. She seems to have but little
if any fever now. Am still concerned. Fear further strokes. As for the rest
of us we are as well as we have been for some time. I am sorry to part
with Sylvester. Love him dearly not only for your sakes but for his own. His
behavior has been the most dutiful obliging sympathizing and discrete that
ever I took notice of in one of his years. Oh if it be the will of heaven made
his life B continued a blessing to you and others. Mr. Barker joins with me
in all due respects to Mr. Dering your self and children. These dear Madam
from your unworthy and afflicted friend Elizabeth Barker
PS my hardy love to Mrs. Brown delivering prayers for us all. Our children
send due respects.
To Mr. and Mrs. Dering is what follows with duty and love. -N.B. Before the sealing of the letter Cato [-] come with additional favors
– not able to get up for an epistle I return my thanks by observing that
the Beef you mentioned is delivered together with apples which were not
mentioned, so kind presents without naming them as anything made me
think how Christ represents them on his right hand saying “when saw we
thee as hungry and gave thee meat or Thirsty I gave thee etc.” who seem to
193
forget what they do, but he don’t forget, no not a cup of cold water. I thank
you for what is received and that I may hope for further epistelary [-] and
communication of instruction and condolence, which I shall receive as his
eagerness, hoping that I shall thereby get further light in the Valley of death
through which I walk not without need of the rod and staff to comfort me,
While in ye veil of tears.
It is too much for Sylvester to accompany me in all ye walk I am called to
and therefore upon yet another as well as on another of indisposed believe
it’s best at present for him to come home. If this dreary veil don’t swallow
me. I shall hope for his company again and to serve you and yours till death,
who am Nehemiah Barker
Thomas Dering wrote:
To Mr. and Mrs. [Nehemiah] Barker
Your several favors of seventh instant received which afforded us no small
satisfaction to hear of the comfortable hope you had in giving up one of your
dear offspring. Verily there is no God like unto our God who when he smiles
he heals and whom he bows down his raises up. I was once called to part
with an only son and of firstborn (O God requires our first fruits) at a season
just when he became engaging and could compare it to nothing more natural
then parting with one of my limbs – – then was obliged to hear recourse
to that covenant into which had entered into with God both for my self [-]
and found great comfort in it. The Lord gave me a heart I trust bowed to his
will and to believe it was happy for the babe and trust brought me nearer to
himself and to see his justice and mercy. Some time after gave me another
son which we hope was hearty in bringing under the bonds of ye same
covenant. In a few years was called to see him brought to all appearance as
near ye gates of ye grave as any one yet was not dead.
And again by divine grace brought cheerfully to acquiescence the will of
God and to pray if it was for his glory he might be spared. Otherwise to
take him to himself and that if he should live in the world it might be to
be employed in his service as should be most for the glory of God and the
good of mankind. His life is spared to ye day. Am praying, and waiting, and
hoping for the granting [-] of my request. Of being employed in his service,
pleading the covenant he is under and asking grace for him to perform it,
believing if it is most for his glory it shall be accomplished. Hope submitting
to his will and desiring grace sufficient to perform my part to bring him (and
the others he has granted to me) up in the nurtured admonition of ye Lord
and that they may all be employed in ye service of God’s [-] ornaments in ye
Christian church and profession, and if he if he is pleased to take them, or
either of them away, that he will remember the mercy of ye everlasting, give
strength to us in such a day and will be bowed in subjection to his pleasure
and now dear Sir, the Lord has brought you near to himself and trust has
not only given you faith but given you to act upon it beg your prayers for me
and mine, that our lives may be devoted to him. This service yet every talent
entrusted to us may be employed in his service and for the good of mankind
especially for ye comfort of his dear children.
194
Have nothing but what is received and any small things the Lord may have
putted into my heart to do desire he may have all ye praise to him alone it is
due. --Through devine goodness our son was brought home safe, hope he is
better of his cold, and if God permit and as you are willing that he may be
under your tuition for a season when your family are well, and he in health to
return to his studies, --- would be glad to have him learn the Latin and Greek
tongues if my circumstances will afford it and if I am never able to give him
an academical education yet would choose he might be fitted so as he might
be worthy admission to any of them --- Hope ‘err this you are all recovered
of your sicknesses may ye Lord grant you health and above all things may
your souls be in health [-] with hearty love to you all subscribe myself your
affection and unworthy brother in our Lord.
Book: 3
Number: 293
Date: 2/19/1772
To: Mary Dering
From: Hepzi Edwards
Place: Boston
Boston February 19
Dear Mrs. Dering
I received yours of 7 September but have had no opportunity to answer it till
now. Your friends are all well say they long to see you. Why can’t you make a
visit this summer. Mr. Oliver is paid for the cloth. Mr. Rogers paid him before
he died. Sally Oliver has got a fine son. Ned Lloyd is to have Ms. Betsy and to
be married in the spring. Mrs. Spooner remains a widow and very agreeable.
I don’t think of anything remarkable to write you but am glad your family
is all well. I suppose Sylvester would not know me now. Give my love to him
and pleased to accept the same from your Hepzi Edwards
back
to Mrs. Mary Dering
I must refer you to Mr. Dering letter as I have not time now to enlarge.
• Ebenezer Storer’s wife, Elizabeth Green, had died. She was the mother of Elizabeth, Mary, Charles, and George.
• Hepzi may have been a gossip and busybody, but she was not a snob. Her comments about Mrs. Wentworth and Mrs.
Monk are quite enlightening.
• Thomas Packer, brother of Thomas’s mother, was the Sheriff of New Hampshire. He died in 1771.
Book: 3
Number: 294
Date: 2/19/1772
To: Thomas Dering
From: Hepzi Edwards
Place: Boston
Boston February ye 19
Dear Czn
I received viewers in the fourth November and find you have heard of the
death of Uncle Packer. He has left his estate to between Tom and Gov.
Wentworth. At Tom’s death it is all to go to Gov. Wentworth. Uncle has died
as he lived given his estate from one blood relation to one a kin by marriage.
But I suppose Mrs. Wentworth and her children will be the better for it. She
spent the summer with the governor and was at Portsmouth when Uncle died
and was to see him but he never left her anything. Why Mrs. Wentworth did
not stay at Portsmouth I can’t tell for she lived like the queen there [-]. And
when here a perfect slave to Brinley children. Poor Sheraff is dead. What will
become of his family I can’t tell. He died very suddenly. Mme. Storer is dead
and we have lost a good friend.
195
Mrs. Cumming is married to one Mr. Bacon, one of the ministers of the
old South and is like to increase her family. Mrs. Katy Goldthwaite to one
of Commissioner William’s sons. Mrs. Smith is married to Mr. Inman and
now as to Mrs. Green’s family, Daniel Pierce and Mrs. Ben Green is all that
is living. Aunt Sargeant’s dead. Cousin Storer and wife are glad to hear you
are well. Suckey Green days in now. They want to see you and your wife very
much – –
Mrs. Monk I hear has had a very good offer and refused because she chooses
to die by the name of Monk, a pious name. Mrs. Wentworth is of the same
mind. Forgive me I think it rank pride in them.
We have had good tidings from poor Harry that he is in good business for
himself and is much liked among the people where he is.
Mrs. Brinley is now laying in with a fine son. Old Mr. Gould is dead and left
Mrs. Rogers children each thousand pounds sterling so they are provided for.
And as to Mr. Thomas I have not much to say for him. He is a man without
thought. Poor Sally I pity her and her children which is six. Mr. Gooch
and wife is down with them and lives there. That is all I shall say about
that without I could see you but your sister Sally is to be pitied. And as to
myself oh that I had a thankful heart I am comfortable provided for a small
habitation nothing grand but all the comforts of life.
My friends glad to see me and I them and owe no man anything but
goodwill. I wish you could call in and see me. I think you would be pleased.
It is with me just as I could with Tom Packer is not in his father’s office nor is
he anyways fit for it. Col. Atkinson is alive and has given his estate to one of
your Cousin King’s sons though he was one of your father’s family. Has not
given his daughter Fanny anything. This is the friendship of this world. Are
not stupid creatures to care so much about it. James Monk is in London and
I do assure you very pretty fellow.
As to the People’s ever liking the governor I think they never will. They seem
to hate him and his posterity. He does not go to church, but is steady at his
old meeting. The people are stiller then they were, but not contented.
Your friends all desire to be remembered to you. Col. Jackson is often in
briefing after you as is all your friends. I shall send you one of Doderey’s
book. It is one that Harry gave me. I think I have answered most of your
letter. I hate writing and it is a burden to me to take a pen in hand. So
farewell from Hepzi Edwards.
• Alexander William Grant was born on May 23, 1771 in London.
196
Book: 3
Number: 295
Date: 2/25/1772
To: Margaret Chesebrough
From: Alexander Grant
Place: London
Book: 3
Number: 296
Date: 3/27/1772
To: Thomas Dering
From: Thomas Boutineau
Place: New London
Book: 4
Number: 298
Date: 4/14/1772
To: Thomas Dering
From: James Reeve
Place: Southold
London 25 February 1772
My dear Mdm.
Many, many thanks for your kind letter of congratulations on the birth of
our little Londoner. He shall come and thank you himself by and by. He is a
fine tempered, sprightly handsome boy and promises not to disgrace nor be
disgraced, by his sisters. If his grandpapa will exchange the Quail for him we
shall be willing to do it next year. My only objection will be that of giving you
additional trouble where you have had too much already with us and ours.
My mind is impressed with a high sense of the obligations I lie under to you
for your maternal affection to me and my children upon all occasions. Indeed
I can safely say that I have a truly filial affection and regard for you as in duty
bound. I ought. Knowing your consensus regard to truth and your hatred
to flattery, I cannot but be happy to have you bestow such encomions upon
our dear girls – – happy is it for them that they are in such good hands where
they will have virtuous principles implanted on their tender minds both by
the precepts and examples of those who have the care of them. May they live
and be grateful to you and their other friends and benefactors. Nabby has
written to you by this opportunity and to her I beg leave refer you. She has
more leisure to ratify her friends that I have, and the better talent. However
much the saucy pussy affronts her Lord and master sometimes. I can assure
you she is not insensible of your worth nor of the duty she owes to so good
a mother and friend – – if there is anything here that you wish for your own
use you will much oblige her and me to point out, and give us the pleasure
of execution of your commissions. When you write to Mr. or Mrs. Dering I
pray to be remembered to them in the kindest manner. Be so good as present
my love to cousin Nancy, and to kiss my sweet girls for their affectionate papa
and my honored and dear madam your dutiful and affectionate and obliged
Alexander Grant
New London 27 March 1772
Dear Sir
I have not had the pleasure to hear from you since I sent you a large letter
that I received for you by the post though Webb has that over three times. I
suppose you are or have been sick, or [-], you have been so. I have been really
sick of a fever which the doctor can witness. I now send you a book and letter
I received by a vessel from Boston and I hear that Mr. John Apthorpe and his
wife sailed from New York bound for South Carolina and as they have not
been heard of since and it is feared they are lost. There was a terrible storm
about that time. It is hoped they have got to the West Indies. Please God.
I propose to go to Boston in May if I can. I propose to spend three or four
days with you before I go. My respects to Mrs. Dering and remember me to
all friends your friend Thomas Boutineau
Dear brother I’m obliged to you for your [-] sending me ye book by ye son.
It been this us as at this time. My doctor’s wife I think mends fast – – I think
of mere grace I am privileged with more of ye spot of cooperation ....
197
• The vagaries of attempting to supply a pulpit, especially when the community is small.
Book: 4
Number: 299
Date: 5/13/1772
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Adams
Place: New London
New London May 13th 1772
Dear Sir
Yours of seventh instant came to hand a few days ago in answer to wish I
would say that what my health and years and other circumstances allow it
I think I should rather spend the remains of life in the service of Shelter
Island then of almost any other place I am acquainted with. If I might in
the hands of God be and [-] of doing good and promoting his glory. – – But
as the case is I dare not engage at present; before not for any length of time.
However I am greatly obliged to the people for their kind invitation and beg
you will please to let them know my grateful sentiments of it. I learned by
Mr. Buell (who went from hence yesterday) that there were proposals on foot
for Mr. Avery still preaching all alternately at the harbor and the Island and
upon the whole I don’t see but that it may be best for both people that he
should. I have been through the goodness of God much more comfortable in
the winter passed that I was when with you, and almost quite free from that
distressing dispepsia I then had, though I have had some thing of it, in the
few warm days we have had this spring. My poor brother continues gradually
sinking lower and lower. Yesterday he had three severe tracking fits in the
space of two hours – – the rest of us comfortable. I have heard that Mrs.
Chesebrough is to be with you this summer; I shall choose to make you a visit
then, if God will. Remember me in the most kind and affectionate manner
to Mrs. Dering and the children to Mr. Havens and spouse and all my friends
and acquaintances as if particularly named. From your cordial friend and
obliged humble servant William Adams
PS I have made some inquiry concerning the Barbary rams; when I know
more I will advise you
Book: 4
Number: 300
Date: 5/15/1772
To: Thomas Dering
From: Thomas Boutineau
Place: New London
198
New London 15th of May 1772
Dear Sir
I wrote you some time ago that I proposed to go to Boston the 15th of this
month but have been hindered but believe I shall go by water in 15 days
hence. If you have anything to send, send it to me by that time. Friend
Adams says you wrote him that the people desired he would come and tarry
with you one year but he does not seem willing to engage for so long time.
The Rev. M Buell was here and that Mr. Avery did not choose to keep school
but had rather preach as usual with you at the harbor and Mr. Buell said the
people at Shelter Island choose rather to have Mr. Adams if they believe Mr.
Adams is more backward to go to you as it would hinder Mr. Avery from
getting the money. I was sorry Mr. Buell told him that, however he says he
proposes to go over in June. Entre Nous. He is the most silent of any man
I ever knew. I mean as to being unsociable. He will sit the whole evening
and hardly say anything. He seems to me to be lost to the world, however,
in charity I would suppose it is owing to the conduct of his nephews, his
brother’s indisposition, and as he sometimes hints they are spending all and
getting nothing. One of the nephews is a Constable and Pegene goes to
West Indies, master of a slaver. I was in hopes of seeing you before I set out
for Boston, but was disappointed soon after it pleases God I return which I
hope will be [-] month. I will do my endeavors to visit you. I suppose friend
Adams will be there about that time. If I should not hear from you before I
go shall visit some of your friends. You did not write me an answer to what I
wrote about the price of beef and I believe it is now too late. I wish you and
family every blessing you [-] of my best respects to Mrs. Dering and love to
the children and compliments to Mr. and Mrs. Young. Mr. Havens. I am with
great esteem your friend and humble servant Thomas Boutineau
Book: 4
Number: 301
Date: 5/22/1772
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Adams
Place: New London
New London May 22, 1772
Dear Sir
I wrote and sent an answer to yours of the seventh instant (by Webb) which
I trust you have received. Mr. Avery was here last Tuesday but I had not
the pleasure to see him as I was from home. I suppose he had something
to communicate to me, (but what, I know not) by his taking some pains to
look me up. I understand he went out of town that night. – – The substance
of what I wrote was to this effect viz that I dare not, for sundry reasons,
undertake a compliance with the kind motion of my Shelter Island friends
but that I must gratefully resented it. That I understood (by Mr. Buell) that
it had been proposed to have Mr. Avery go on preaching alternately at the
Island and the Harbor and upon the whole that it best. – –
I write this to inform you further of what I had done respecting the Barbary
rams, which I wrote about in the post script. The gentleman (Mr. Chapman)
who first had them in keeping, was here yesterday and told me he was
then going to Mr. Smith’s the present owner of the rams. I engaged him to
examine the lambs and know the price. He hath been with me this morning
and tells me they are very fine. He has picked out four, two for himself and
two for you, if you think best. – – Mr. Smith’s price is a dollar and half a
piece and to keep them till August. He tells me the finest lamb of all he did
not take, because of its color being spotted as a fawn black and white. – –
Those that he has chosen are all white. You must know there are two sons of
these rams with us the one with broad tail, the other like our common sheep.
Mr. Chapman tells me and so do others that both sorts of them much exceed
our sheep in the length, fineness and quality of their wool – – Mr. Chapman
can let you have a young ram of the latter kind if you choose it at the price
Mr. Smith asked for him he thinks they rather exceed the broad tail kind in
wool. I understand Mr. Smith, as he has gone well stocked with the breed –
would now part with the old ram itself at the price of 4 pounds gm for which
she gave 4 pounds lawful. Mr. Chapman tells me he makes the most stately
appearance – – I should think it would be well worth while for you and your
neighbors to buy him. If you can’t afford to buy him yourself would it not be
best to talk with Mr. Havens and son upon it. You will write me word by the
first boat, whether you will have those that have been conditionally engaged
for you – – as Mr. Smith would be glad to know as soon as may be that he
may otherwise dispose of them if you decline – – Write me your whole mind
upon the affair and will endeavor to follow your directions – –
My best regards to Mrs. Dering and children and to all my friends and
acquaintances from your cordial friend William Adams
199
• The Sons of Liberty were very active throughout the colonies, and the British officers charged with enforcing the customs
laws and the Stamp Act were becoming aggressive. In June of 1772, a dramatic event was to demonstrate the severity of
the crisis. A Lieutenant William Duddington, of Her Majesty’s Ship Gaspee, was charged with patrolling the waters of
Narragansett Bay, off Rhode Island. Duddington had earned a reputation as an overzealous enforcer; boarding and detaining
vessels and confiscating cargoes, often without charge, and without recourse for merchants whose goods were impounded. Losses
were mounting and it was widely believed that these harassments were directed specifically at members of the Sons of Liberty.
On June 9, 1772, a local vessel out of Newport was under way to Providence when its captain baited the HMS Gaspee
and led Duddington into shallow waters near Warwick. The Gaspee ran aground at a place that is now known as Gaspee
Point. News of the grounding quickly reached Providence and a party of fifty-five, led by a man named John Brown, planned
an attack on the ship. The following evening they surrounded and boarded the Gaspee, wounding Duddington and capturing
the entire crew. All were hauled ashore and abandoned, to watch as the Gaspee was looted and then burned. The boldness of
this attack was even more remarkable in that none of the attackers made any effort to hide their identities. Duddington and
crew were able to point out most of the participants readily. However, this did them little good because the local courts, too,
were antagonistic toward the Royal Navy. Rather than attempt to prosecute the attackers, charges were brought against Lt.
Duddington for illegally seizing goods. When this news reached Parliament, there was outrage. A special commission, under
the authority of the vice-admiralty courts, was sent to apprehend the perpetrators of the Gaspee affair, and to haul them back
to England for trial. Though the identities of the perpetrators were widely known, the investigation was fruitless. No arrest
was ever made. [ushistory.org]
Book: 4
Number: 302
Date: 7/31/1772
To: Thomas Dering
From: James Reeve
Place: Southold
Book: 4
Number: 303
Date: 8/3/1772
To: Thomas Dering
From: Thomas
Hutchinson, Jr.
Place: Boston
Dear Sir
A few lines from your old friend I trust won’t be amiss if well aimed – – I
intended to have come myself this week to have seen you but merely to
gratify Mrs. Barker and daughter I am prevented were near our eternal home
at the time since I and my wife saw you last oh may we arrived safe to glory
we shall know what the most .....
Boston August 3, 1772
Mr. Thomas Dering
Sir
I received your favor 26th May by Mr. Boutineau who called on me today
to acquaint me he should set out for New London tomorrow morning. I am
sorry I cannot send the history Massachusetts by him as I have not got one of
my own and the Governor of whom I intended to get one is on a journey to
Middleborough. I will endeavor to find the first [-] by next good opportunity.
Mr. Rodgers estate is not yet settled, but as administrator I have talked with
the Lieutenant Governor. I shall pay him his demand if there be any balance
remaining due to you. I will take care that you have it. Mrs. Hutchinson
joins with me and love to your lady and I assure you if we should make an
excursion so far from home as Shelter Island it would give us great pleasure
to pay you a visit. I am Sir your friend and servant Thomas Hutchinson
Junior
• After Sylvester had to leave Mr. Barker’s house in Mattituck, it is unknown where 14 year-old Sylvester finished his
schooling. He may have gone to study in Boston before entering Yale.
200
Book: 4
Number: 304
Date: 8/13/1772
To: Thomas Dering
From: Caleb Russell
Place: Bridgehampton
Book: 4
Number: 307
Date: 8/19/1772
To: Thomas Dering
From: Samuel Buell
Place: East Hampton
Sir
I would inform you that I have just opened my school again, and have four
young lads just begun the Latin grammar. Should be willing to add your
son to the number, and accommodate him with lodgings provided you think
six shillings per week not to dear for boarding and 20 shillings a quarter for
tuition. I am your friend and humble servant Caleb Russell Bridgehampton
August 13, 1772
East Hampton August 19, 1772
My Dear Sir
I expected long before now the pleasure of being at your house but have
been providentially prevented since my return from New England [-] if
position in my family and among my people has confined me at home – –
as to the weight I was to have – – the money has long lay ready – – as I
long since intended to send for it. – – I should still be glad to have it, if you
have reserved it for me, if not I can possibly do without it – – please let
me hear whether you have its form if so I will send for it very soon if not
will otherwise seek a supply – – compliments to your whole self wishing all
blessings upon yourself and yours in at most [-] I am dear Sir in the Lord of
love ever yours Samuel Buell
• Apparently, to Mr. Boutineau, Boston had as bad a reputation for debauchery as London.
New London 24th August 1772
Dear Sir
Book: 4
I returned safe here thank God some days ago and sent you the letters I
Number: 305
brought for you by my friend Thomas Mumford. I had so much business to
Date: 8/24/1772
do that and the bearer went off unexpectedly was the reason I did not write. I
To: Thomas Dering
hope you will be able to give as good reason why you did not write me when
From: Thomas Boutineau
he returned. When at Boston I visited Mr. Edwards and Lady, the pretty
Place: New London
widow Rogers Mr. Joshua Green and Lady on your account. Your sister
Wentworth was at Portsmouth or should have seen her. I saw numbers who
were glad to hear of you and family. My honored mother I found sick when I
got home and in five weeks after I hope slept sweetly in Jesus her sickness and
death deprived me of much satisfaction. I assure you Boston is now become
I believe as bad as London. Pride, luxury, drunkenness and debauchery
among some families of credit and the source of all [-] what you hardly
believe. Deism in short I believe religion never was at so low an ebb since the
country was settled. God only knows what will be the consequence. I hope
to have the pleasure to see you and my worthy friend in 15 days. Please God
nothing more than I know of happens and shall give you some particulars.
I forgot to tell you I saw Capt. Joshua Winslow of Cumberland and his lady
was at Marshfield. He talked of coming to see you this fall. My best respect
to Mrs. Dering and compliments to Mrs.Chesebrough though have not the
pleasure to know her. I hope to come before she leaves you. Remember me to
the children. Mrs. Case and her sister and aunt and to all that asked after me
your friend in haste Thomas Boutineau
Turn over
I believe you will Uncle Adams much as when you saw him last he said .....
201
Book: 4
Number: 306
Date: 8/27/1772
To: Thomas Dering
From: Joseph Grover
Place: Dartmouth College
Book: 4
Number: 308
Date: 9/8/1772
To: Thomas Dering
From: James Browne
Place: Bridgehampton
Book: 4
Number: 309
Date: 9/11/1772
To: Thomas Dering
From: Thomas Boutineau
Place: New London
Dartmouth College
August 27, 1772
Respected Sir
In the multiplicity of business and confusion of college I write you. Your
singular question benevolence have made lasting impressions of fondness
on my mind which makes the reflection agreeable. Time will not admit of
writing much. Through a kind and indulgent Providence I ride at college
and intend to find my self much better in health and hope I shall be able in
a moderate degree to pursue my studies. I feel myself at home – – nothing is
so agreeable to me as to be with my fellow students. I hope you will be ready
to execute my [-] for I am not under proper advantage to write anything
particular. [-] Little time to prepare for commencement in few days. I shall
be free from this necessary impediment then I will do myself the honor
to write you in a more agreeable manner. I desire a remembrance in your
prayers. I give my compliments to your kind lady. Sir I am with much respect
and high esteem your most obliged and humble servant Joseph Grover
Bridgehampton September 8, 1772
Dear Mr. Dering
For some weeks past I have been thinking and with desire proposing to pass
over the water to Shelter Island (which is more than all the rest of the way
to me) but so many things have occurred that I have not been able with any
convenience as yet. Mrs. Browne has been quite unwell our children have
been from home and all had the smallpox except Apphin and she has had
the measles. We have had the fever [-] and boils [-] and sore eyes in the
family this week. I hope to see you and yours, but now we have all a very
troublesome disease with the itch -- don’t think proper to go from home until
cured and [-] hope you will accept of the Will for the deed at present offed
would be a pleasure to me to make an excursion to your [---] to Southold .....
New London
11 September 1772
Messeurs Adams and Dering
Dear Sirs
I was in hopes to have had the pleasure to have seeing you and the good
family about this time but am prevented. However Hope please God to
see you in good health in 10 or 15 days. Mr. Adams family are as usual.
Pegene is not yet arrived, is daily expected. Col. Saltonstall, Mr. Hillhouse
and deputies. Nothing new worthy of notice. I hope you are all happy. All
friends desire to be remembered to you. Mr. Avery and his wife got here
Monday last. I did not see him. My best respects to Mrs. Dering and Mrs.
Chesebrough and kiss the children for me. Remember me to all friends I
am with great esteem in haste your friend and humble servant Thomas
Boutineau
The captains Chaplin Broderick Packwood [-] arrived. George Gardiner, the
son, to believe the ferry man, died in the West Indies.
202
Book: 4
Number: 310
Date: 10/7/1772
To: Thomas Dering
From: James Reeve
Place: Southold
….
Book: 4
Number: 311
Date: 10/15/1772
To: Margaret Chesebrough
From: Abigail Grant
Place: London
London 15 th October 1772
Dear Madame,
Is most probable that before this reaches you the account of your little
namesake’s appearance will be known. How far Mr. Marchant acted as
a female I know not, but the secret was to be kept, till anxiety might be
prevented. Those yearly productions are not what I wish, but I may not speak
except in terms of gratitude of my life again. At a point is still continued
and my labor though tedious was easy compared to past sufferings. The little
girl has been taken back, but at present she is thriving. Button is a mere rake
and regales us with a song every evening before bed. The urgent chatters
like any magpie and you will not be at a push to account for that, a certain
near relation of his was never known to be dumb and all say he is in her own
likeness. Wisdom to govern him is what I ought to solicit for his spirit will
require a large share.
I long much to hear from my dear Americans, having had only one short
letter from Betsy since she got to Boston. I propose writing her now and
shall be much disappointed if she continues those long intervals. My sweet
quail will I am sure gratify her mama though she has not time to write her
just now. Her sister Peggy has not put her out of mind. For she will ever be
dear to us now. She honors her papa and you happy, happy charming girls
to be blessed with such guardians. May she be wise to improve her singular
advantages and answer the expectations you may have of her. May your
God be her God and the answer to your prayers a treasure in reserve for
her. Time will not permit me to indulge my pen and therefore present my
dear Campbell’s. Best respects my own most dutiful regards. Mr. G warmest
wishes and assure you that I am sincerely and affectionately yours, dear
Ma’am, Aligail Grant
Book: 4
Number: 313
Date: 10/19/1772
To: Thomas Dering
From: James Reeve
Place: Southold
Sir
[-] to fit opportunity I write – crowded [-] with weighty concerns R society T
is an important season brethren tomorrow to be a lecture after it to compel
about Mr. Guy a call encouragement to, among period I hope of great fear....
• Mr. Adams still had not been paid for his recent preaching at Shelter Island. He knew the task for colleting his fees had
been taken on by Nicoll Havens.
203
Book: 4
Number: 312
Date: 10/20/1772
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Adams
Place: New London
New London October 20, 1772
Dear Sir
I now sit down (according to my promise in my last) to write you again and
have waited thus long, in hopes of a line from you – – Mr. Avery was here in
town and at our house the day before yesterday; but as I had that day taken a
ride, I had not the opportunity of seeing him; when I returned in the evening
I went in search of him and found that he was gone to Niacitich (five or 6
miles off) and was expected to return yesterday Last evening I went in quest
of him, but could hear nothing of him – – I suppose he will be in town today.
It is probable I shall send this by him. I have heard nothing concerning Mrs.
Chesebrough’s voyage home, only in general that it was tedious. I understand
you have letters from her. I should be glad you would favor me with an
account of particulars in your next.
My brother’s son is not yet returned. We expect every day either to see or
hear from him – – by what we can learn he is like to make a very losing
voyage, meeting with a series of disappointments and disasters; however,
if it may be a means of getting him upon thinking on his way, and turning
his feet into God’s testimonies, it will prove the most painful and greatly
rejoice the hearts of his parents (and other friends) notwithstanding any
worldly embarrassments and difficulties that may be occasioned, thereby our
family this God’s goodness is in comfortable health, except my brother who
continues in the same broken state. My brother and sister are desired to be
remembered to you and yours. I send enclosed a few lines to Mr. Conklin,
with a blank discharge if he sees fit to comply with the conditions of it.
I forgot when I was with you to enquire of Mr. Nicoll Havens whether he
had any of the subscription progress, I should be glad if you would collect
what you can of them if there be any remaining – – if Mr. Conklin will pay
or secured to be paid ie, at least ten bushels of wheat you may give him a
discharge and write me now as soon as you can the issue of the affairs. My
best regards to Mrs. Dering and children and all inquiring friends [-] PS I
don’t know but that it would be best for you to keep in your hands what I
send to Mr. Conklin and only send it to him. Do you think proper? Let me
know if I am like to have my stockings from Mrs. Payne and how soon.
• On November 12, 1772, Sarah Thomas delivered Charles, her eighth child.
Newport December 1, 1772
My Dear Brother and Sister
Book: 4
I am writing to you as one as all good husbands and wives should be I know
Number: 314
not how this is to get to you but hope the vessel that is going to Nantucket
Date: 12/1/1772
will put in here. I received your letters by Mr. Hunter which gave me the
To: Thomas and Mary Dering
satisfaction of hearing that you were all well. A great Mercy that we cannot
From: Margaret
be thankful enough for – –
Chesebrough
Place: Newport
204
In my last to you which was by the way New London I let you know what
fears we were under for the account of the small pox spreading. It still looks
dark. Several been removed since I wrote last. There has been a number
to Mr. Potter to be inoculated some of which has brought it and given the
infection to their friend a most [-] circumstance this no-fault of the doctor
but of the young and headstrong persons that left the hospital too soon – –
we know not where there is danger and where not I go carelessly anywhere
but to meeting. Don’t know but there is as much danger there are as
anywhere. Loathe to give up going there. I would be in the way of duty and
commit myself to great preserver and protector not to attempt nor to run
into the way of danger.
Oh my dear friend cease not to pray for us as we are very sinful people that
deserve no mercy. [---] Who knows but that the Lord may be [-] for Christ’s
sake to spare us once more all pray for your poor sister that she may be
prepared for the will of the Lord whether living or dying she may be the
Lord: our text the last Lord’s day was prepare to meet God O Israel. Since
I wrote the above but one person carried to the pest house. Mr. McClure
has brought the remainder of the rent, which is acceptable to you. Mr. C
says if it is agreeable to you shall like to have the bigger part of his wood [-].
My love to all friends concludes me your most affectionate sister Margaret
Chesebrough
Mrs. Osborne love and thanks
Book: 4
Number: 315
Date: 12/10/1772
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Adams
Place: New London
New London December 10, 1772
Dear Sir
Yours of November 24th and 25th and December 2nd I have received with
the presents that accompanied them for which we return you are sincere
and hearty thanks. I should have sent you the potatoes I told you of when I
was with you but before my return here they were all (excepting a very few
for present spending) so secured underground as not easily to become at;
however if we shall live till spring, we propose to supply you with quantity for
eating and planting if you like them. We all breakfasted to head this morning
upon Mrs. Dering’s sausages with great satisfaction. They were the more
agreeable as they were the first we have tasted this season. I understand Mr.
and Mrs. Havens came over with Mr. Fosdick. I have not as yet seen him
but expect it this afternoon. You will let Mrs. Payne know I have received my
stockings and like them well and shall take care to answer her demands very
soon – – I suppose you have not as yet had an interview with Mr. Conklin
respecting my affair. If he sees fit to comply with my proposal I should be
glad to know it soon – – The wheat would be the more agreeable if I could
have it before the hard weather sets in. My brother and sister and family are
as well as usual and send their kindest regards to you and yours as also does
your obliged friend and servant William Adams
PS We have had letters from my nephew. We hardly expect him home till
towards spring.
205
Book: 4
Number: 316
Date: 12/29/1772
To: Thomas Dering
From: William Adams
Place: New London
New London December 29, 1772
Dear Sir
Upon the receipt of yours of 17th instant I immediately made inquiry
concerning your cloth but could learn no tidings of it and was preparing to
make further but this I conclude is now unnecessary as Mr. Gare with his
family is now on your side of the water and who probably carried it with
him; but I don’t know as I had not the opportunity of seeing him, when here,
his stay was so short – – coming to town in the evening and going out early
the next morning – – I am obliged to you for your pains in the first scene
with Mr. Conklin upon my affair – – you will let me know as soon as you can
how it turns out – – We are all, through God’s goodness, in as comfortable
circumstances as can be reasonably expected. You would let me know how
it is with you and yours to whom my present my tender and affectionate
respects and regards – – I know not by whom I shall send this. Dr. Fosdick
tells me he intends for the Island very soon; if Mr. Conklin should think fit
to allow me anything of myself due in wheat it will be a good opportunity of
transmitting of it or some of it by the doctor when he returns – – my regards
to Mr. Avery and all inquiring friends from your friend and servant William
Adams
PS I have copied out that sermon of my father’s, which you desired left it
with Mr. Boutineau who will transmit it to you.
• Henry Dering, Thomas’s brother, died in Jamaica in 1772.
Book: 4
Number: 317
Date: 12/29/1772
To: Thomas Dering
From: James Reeve
Place: Southold
….
Book: 4
Number: 323
Date: 6/11/1773
To: Thomas Dering
From: James Reeve
Place: Southold
Dear Sir
Contributors
Jennings
Prince
Salmon
Howell
Tryon Hubbard
Joe Webb
Edward Reeve
John Racket
Aby Corey
• Scholars of the Grant family speculate that Alexander Grant, Abigail’s husband, was the illegitimate son of Lord Grant.
What is known is that Alexander Grant devoted his adult life to the business needs of Lord Grant, and that when the Lord
died in 1772, his will recognized Alexander not at all. Childless, Lord Grant left his estate to his wife, his brother, and his
206
nieces and nephews.
• Alexander was furious. He expressed his bitterness to Ezra Stiles, his friend and future President of Yale, “What can be
more Vexatious than to meet with Ingratitude and Accumulated villainy, in return for the most Important services rendered,
and very great Sacrifices made? I was afraid, the Disappointment, where I had placed the highest Confidence, would have
rendered me a mere Misanthrope. It will not have that Effect; but it will teach me, I hope, never to put myself so much in
the Power of Man as I have done. Who would wish to be in the situation of a rich, Worldly minded Wretch, who neither
knows, nor Worships, any other Deity than the Mammon of Unrighteousness – who lived unbeloved, Dies Unlamented,
and leaves his ill acquired Wealth to Fools or knaves, or both; who cared not one farthing for him while living, nor have the
smallest respect for his Memory, when dead.” Lord Grant apparently owed Alexander £7000 when he died, which his
estate probably never paid him. [Boonstra. Ibid. October 2002, 384-385.]
• Abigail laid all the evil on Lady Grant, however.
London 25 February 1773
Book: 4
Dear Madame
Number: 318
I have no doubt of your sympathy under every affliction as a temper like
Date: 2/25/1773
yours is sure to feel another’s woe the sad reverse of your character – I
To: Margaret Cheeborough
have indeed seen and as far as was permitted felt its unhappy effects the
From: Abigail Grant
consequences might have been worse in earlier life, as juvenile expectations
Place: London
run high, that we have been disappointed, is certain, but heaven has
prevented any essential hurt. They have put into other hands a few hundred
and his ill-gotten wealth is a bone of contention while mischief was brooding
they agreed as one but that completed they immediately wrangles – you
cannot have an idea of this family of [-] having always moved in a virtuous
circle.
The mind of LG was formed by her husband and merely as a wife she
had [-] he instilled into her principles that proved painful to his own
peace and saw when too late the effects of his bad counsel not that he was
properly convinced of any evil but in his last days he wished for quiet – the
rupture with Mrs. G, hurt him greatly and had she been still it would not
have happened (in my opinion) his pride would not suffer him to own her
influence. But it was glaring, to a degree, had she used it properly, all would
have been well, but she in her turn and way played the tyrant most touched
her to the quick to see his success or though he had accumulated a very large
fortune her narrowness could not bear to give up the profits of business while
her vanity prompted her to be the woman of fashion indeed she was the
exact copy of her husband and was tossed about like a tennis ball by avarice
and vanity – but it is time to quit a subject rather disagreeable and turn my
thoughts upon other matters.
I find enough to do in forgiving the injuries received but I will strive to act
up to my duty – until I can speak of them with less emotion. I choose to be
rather silent and make them the subject of my prayers not my sentiment.
I had the pleasure of letters from Mr. and Mrs. Dering by Rogers and am
amply rewarded for the cloak in their approbation. As connections of yours
they are entitled to my attention, and from past kindnesses to my real regard.
I wish I had their daughter with me as I think I could forward her education
– without injuring her morals. She sent me a [-] the writing of the pretty trio
and I think the performance extraordinary considering their disadvantages.
207
Dear creatures. I wish them every blessing and rejoice with you in the happy
turn of your sister’s mind. True grace seems not only formed but advancing
greatly and her affections appear to be placed on high. Happy afflictions
when thus sanctified precious trials that produce such effects may the same
almighty power be seen in all dear you that we may triumph at the last – in
our glorious Redeemer sees not my dear Mdm. to plead for me for you can
easily believe my temptations are numerous.
Communicate your sentiments with freedom upon these important matters
and let me have your experience to strengthen my resolution. Believe me
this world of dissipation does not engross me though it takes me often away
from superior pursuits. I am a conformist in some respects but it is not with
me the delight of my [-] permit me to tell you – I have enjoyed some sweet
retirements here and am as much as ever convinced of the excellence of
religion. – I believe I may say I would not resign my hope of an interest in
Christ for worlds of treasure but my real state is only known to him above my
gratifications are many but they have had an ally – our children indeed call
for every grateful sentiment – and are as yet what we wish.
Betsy is highly spoken of by everybody and we need caution respecting her
and indeed respecting them all – Billy is a lovely handsome boy but not
equal to his sisters in temper. He promises to have a good Constitution and
suffers no inconveniences from infantile complaints. Mr. Grant proposes my
carrying him to you and sending Nab here. Will the plan answer? Let me
know in your next. I shall write brother upon the subject – His education
need not be at [-] too and Nabby needs more advantages than she can get.
But I shall say nothing more as it is now 11 at night. Mr. Grant joins me in
every dutiful expression to you for we really are your affectionate and dutiful
children Abigail Grant
And America only to this say with you while I am on my visit as to Mr.
Grant. I do think he is fixed for life except that he also may make a short visit
[-] The plan, take Nabby, must be sent next summer as I should choose to
fix her in the school before I left England – promote it my dear Mdm. and
use this as an argument that myself and son will for a time supply her places
[-] plan is that I see you next year provided the dear girl is sent [-] you must
join me in opinion that it will be too much for Mr. G to have neither wife nor
child with him. Say nothing to my father of the improbability of his fixing in
America.
• Mr. Adams was worried about the processing of the wheat to be delivered to him for payment for his preaching on Shelter
Island. Barter was an important part of the economic system where cash money was in limited supply.
New London March 8, 1773
Book: 4
Dear Sir
Number: 319
Yours of 17th ult came lately to hand. I now set down to answer it. I am
Date: 3/8/1773
greatly obliged to you for your care and trouble respecting the affair between
To: Thomas Dering
Mr. Conklin and me. I am glad it is settled at last, notwithstanding I received
From: William Adams
from him, but a little more than a tenth of what is justly due to me. I believe
208
Place: New London
we shall send bags by this conveyance to bring the wheat over, but if not now,
we shall send by one of the next boats – – I have some thoughts of having
it ground on your side (either by Mr. Havens or Wiggins) and [-] as they
grind but miserably here and to great loss, except we send it by land eight or
9 miles. What if you should [-] it to Mr. Havens – if he should undertake
possibly he would do it toll-free – however if Mr. Wiggins has casks to send
the flour and [-] in to me and will undertake to grind it and send it it will suit
me near as well. The cask shall be sent back - pray talk with him upon it and
send me word by the first boat.
I heartily console with you in the death of your brother. I expected err now
you would have acquainted with the circumstances of his death –
I rejoice that your family have been so comfortably carried through the [-]
if such [-] enjoy his visitations have their genuine influence upon us you are
merciful happy providence indeed – [-] if the of this letter should chance to
come to you receive him as the son of an eminent servant of Christ.
The Rev. Mr. Gillett and not without his own merits – he goes over to the
Island partly to visit his mother’s relations and partly to see if he can find a
place where he may set down in as a [-] – my brother continues in the same
low and broken state he has been long in. I have had something such a turn
of the ague in my head as I had with you some winters ago though not so
severe. I have now a considerable of a cold upon me. The rest of the family
are comfortable – the post came in [--] from Boston but there is nothing
material in [-----] that sermon of my father’s which you was sent some time
ago undercover by [-] Mr. Chesebrough I know not whether even it came to
hand. I am not without hopes of seeing you sometime this spring. Remember
me to Mrs. Dering the children and family and to my friends on the Island I
am your obliged friend William Adams
Book: 4
Number: 320
Date: 5/4/1773
To: Thomas Dering
From: Thomas
Hutchinson, Jr.
Place: Boston
Boston May 4, 1773
Dear Sir
I happened to dine in company with Mr. Foster of Long Island a few days
ago who acquainted me it was probable he should see you soon after he got
home. I have therefore sent by him 16/s lawful which he has promised me
to deliver you. I find an entry in Mr. Rogers cash book by which it appears
the estate was indebted to you £2.5.4. I paid the Lt. Gov. your order £ 1.0.5
which leaves the above balance of 6/11.
I doubt not you sympathize with us in the repeated breaches which have
happened this winter in my father Oliver’s family. Poor Mrs. Spooner’s
decay was gradual and for six months before she died there was no great
hopes of her recovery. This circumstance prepared (in some measure) her
friends for the unavoidable occurrence. My mother Oliver well one week (to
appearance) and at the next in about six weeks from her daughter’s to cease.
The Lieutenant Governor supports his troubles with more fortitude than
could have been expected. He intends to write you by this conveyance to
which must refer you for any further information. Mrs. Hutchinson joins with
me and love to Mrs. Dering and your family from, Sir, your humble servant
209
Thomas Hutchinson Junior
• Abigail’s son suffered a mild case of smallpox.
London 7 May 1773
Dear Madame
Book: 4
You do us justice in supposing we are not wanting in regard, although we do
Number: 321
not write you by every opportunity, Mr. G I am sure has not higher esteem
Date: 5/7/1773
for his own mother – and permit me to say, you have helped to render me
To: Margaret Chesebrough
insensible to the loss of that so highly to be valued connection, which heaven
From: Abigail Grant
saw fit, early to deprive me of – Have you stopped with myself, you must
Place: London
have been applauded, but you have carried on your attention to my children,
without any abatement. In you they have a parent indeed, and towards you,
I hope, they will ever conduct, as such. I please myself with the hope, that
your cares will in part be rewarded, and that you will see the efficacy of the
principles you have installed.
I hope it is meant as a token of good to them, that they have been from the
earliest dawn of reason taught religion and had examples before them whose
aim is to follow Christ – late-very late-May they be taken from us to enter
upon a state I cannot doubt them prepared for. Your ideas were natural,
upon the repetition of deaths, and your reflections suitable, for everyone to
make. Blossoms and buds full-blown, and declining. We see our cut of and
the uncertainty of life is a most powerful argument to prepare for death,
miserable beings indeed, whom false pleasures blind, and for whom the
satisfaction of our religious life is hid-ignorant of happiness flowing from
piety, they seek it in has that terminate in misery and confined all their views
to the trivial things of time.
Happy souls that are united to Christ, and have their minds enlarged by
communications from him, they aspire as it were in June air and cannot with
any delight, descend to sin and folly. Stumbled they may and also fall but
their backslidings shall be healed and their ways restored - I participate in
Miss Richard’s has affliction-and beg you would offer her my consolatory
remembrances to her -- Sources of comfort are not to be pointed out, her
own well furnished mind-affording her many -- what a pity Mr. Hutton
cannot please. Surely his government must be wrong. I have no doubt he has
laurels preparing here-may he wear them with peace, as well as honor.
You will find by my father’s letter how lightly our dear boy had the smallpox.
Encouragement this, if the dear girls should not have had it – the areas are
the dealings of God toward me. But my largest portion is mercy. Rods have
been sent-and justice such as I needed. Matter of this, for thankfulness also.
If I could not rise above disappointed expectations weak must I be indeed,
and all pretensions to religion I ought to give up. If the treachery of man
obstructs duty we make but on ill use which is intended beneficial - if we
are deceived - shall we accuse deity - and fight against him who permits
such characters for our warning to avoid their sins and all the remembrance
I would have of them and to seek earnestly a different spirit is the
210
improvement I would make of their lives – I am my dear Madame you’re
truly affectionate and dutiful daughter Abigail Grant
• The Tea Act, passed by Parliament on May 10, 1773, would launch the final spark to the revolutionary movement
in Boston. The act was not intended to raise revenue in the American colonies, and in fact imposed no new taxes. It was
designed to prop up the East India Company which was floundering financially and burdened with eighteen million pounds
of unsold tea. This tea was to be shipped directly to the colonies, and sold at a bargain price. The Townshend Duties were
still in place, however, and the radical leaders in America found reason to believe that this act was a maneuver to buy popular
support for the taxes already in force. The direct sale of tea, via British agents, would also have undercut the business of
local merchants. Colonists in Philadelphia and New York turned the tea ships back to Britain. In Charleston the cargo was
left to rot on the docks. In Boston the Royal Governor was stubborn and held the ships in port, where the colonists would not
allow them to unload. Cargoes of tea filled the harbor, and the British ship’s crews were stalled in Boston looking for work
and often finding trouble. This situation led to the Boston Tea Party on December 16. [ushistory.org]
• Betrayal of Alexander Grant and Abigail by Lord and Lady Grant had left Abigail staggered.
Honored and dear Madame
Book: 4
Ceremony has not prevailed above esteem and affection. Yet – nor have I
Number: 322
forgotten the obligations I am under to you – confident I am - my little merit
Date: 6/12/1773
is enhanced by your precepts-and examples and that a connection with you
To: Margaret Cheeborough
was for my real good - without a mother-my father’s indulgence would have
From: Abigail Grant
been too great and with some characters it might have been too small.
Place: London
I think of you with regard right to you with pleasure and should see you with
inexpressible satisfaction – perhaps my shocking disappointments in Lady
Grant has been useful - for she is indeed - the reverse of my expectations
few that I met with - but can now tell me of my mistake - but alas who can
hear truth - at the distance of 3000 miles. Her character is exactly that
counterpart of his except in falsehood where I believe he has left but few
equals –
I have never before touched upon this subject as nothing pleasing can be
said. I have no doubt but her meanness and envy increased his wickedness
and they have completed a Catastrophe awful I fear in its consequences
– heaven forgive their dark contrivances - and teaches wisdom, by scenes
is so shocking-essential hurt, they had not in their power, disappointed
expectations-we must be foolish to repine on it – – –
Since my last to you I have been at court but not having a title thought it folly
to be presented. It is true Mrs. Anything now kisses the king’s hand but I have
no notion of that trouble unless I could rise from my knee my lady – –
The dresses were elegant their manners easy and I shall endeavor to pay my
[-] the next birthday. I have wrote Nancy a letter. I wish you to hear part
of it, in as it relates to our dear little girls. Be so good as to give your advice
freely for we shall ever take it as a proof of love.
I am still upon the lookout for good tea - none coming the last years - a
young friend of mine is just arrived from the East and tells me he has very
good - though I postpone. I do not forget which letter I [-] my friends
211
sometimes suspect me of if I could boast of works of super era location this
letter might pass for much, for it is a very long time since I have a line from
you but being conscious I fall short - even of what is duty. I rest satisfied if it
is received by you and read as from your dutiful and affectionate child Abigail
Grant
London 12 June 1773
Book: 4
Number: 324
Date: 9/16/1773
To: Thomas Dering
& William Townsend
From: William Blair
Townsend
Place: Norwich, CT
Norwich September 16, 1773
Sir
As I am now from home on a journey through Connecticut to settle my
father Hubbard’s affairs as one of ye executors his last will, and finding that I
cannot easily get near to you than I am at present, occasions my writing you,
informing you that I find among his papers your note hand dated May 18,
1759, £43.13.9, receipt June 10, 1767, £40 – – interest to August 10, 1773 £
25.1.11.
The whole that is due to 10th August interest and principal £20.15.0 and
as the executor are determined to settle his affairs speedily and having large
legacies to pay, must desire you as soon as possible to discharge the said note,
which has lain a long time and obliged sir humble servant William Blair
Townsend one of the executors to the deceased estate.
PS Please to direct a line to me at Boston as soon as you can after ye receipt
of the above but you same time if it suits you order you discharge of your
note.
Thomas Dering’s response, a copy.
Shelter Island 1st November 1773
Sir
Your kind favor of ye 16th of September received a few weeks ago when
was confined to my bed with sickness but through divine goodness am much
better. Your request is just and wish it were in my power to comply with it
immediately but by the Providence of God am not at present able added to a
debt fallen upon me occasioned by my brother’s failing.
The drought has been so severe that our crops have been in a great measure
cut off from the same quantity of land (which promised exceeding well last
fall) as used to reap eight or 900 bushels of wheat have but little more for
next year than 100.
And the feed for cattle so short and burned up that they turn out much more
inferior than common, but hope by the blessing of God upon the labor of
my hands to be able to pay you and every man their just dues – –
Your father (my good friend) Mr. Hubbard wrote me fourth of September
1767 acknowledging the receipt of ye £40 of John Turner Esq. and of a
year interest 1758 and John Longley and very kindly wrote me the remaining
balance might order when it suited me which should have done before but
this debt of my brother has prevented – – Must beg your patience with me
212
and will pay you the utmost farthing with my hearty regards to my good
friend your mother Hubbard yourself and spouse [-] obliged friend TD
PS Have two pews in Boston one at the Old Brick and another at the New
Brick which would dispose of should be glad if you would inquire if anybody
would purchase either or both and will empower you to sell them if you will
let me know by a line.
Book: 4
Number: 325
Date: 10/1/1773
To: Thomas Dering
From: James Reeve
Place: Southold
….
• Mr. Muirson was speaking of Sylvester, his “namesake” who was at Yale in New Haven.
My dear Sir
Book: 4
Your welcome favor is before me, but by whom transmitted have never been
Number: 326
able to ascertain; of course Mrs. Broom did not receive the 12/ for the
Date: 10/25/1773
bonnet she sends Cousin Dering.
To: Thomas Dering
From: Sylvester Muirson
Place: New York
Dean charges five for the extra fur put in this hat – – whither consonant to
equity or custom, cannot pretend to determine – – have in vain attempted to
find at this season, a straw hat worth sending: if you desire so poor a defense
from weather in the spring shall be able and happy to oblige you – –
I am just returned from hearing a sermon preached upon perhaps the most
noble institution ever made (if we accept that for the relief of the distressed
French prisoners the last war) I need hardly tell you I mean the fund raised
for the maintenance of deceased clergyman’s widows and children. To
relieve present distress is truly laudable, but to anticipate the future wants of
persons yet unborn, is deserving of the highest commendation. To generous
compassion - a quality for which our nation will ever be distinguished –
may be ascribed most than beneficial actions: but we may not impute to
national generosity alone, design founded upon Christian benevolence and
undertaking that makes so strong an impression on my mind, must be my
apology for suffering it to make a weak one on my paper – –
Thank you for every expression of tender concern, as well for my present, a
future welfare; I shall think myself highly culpable not to pay that attention
which is due to friendly advice.
You mentioned to my namesake’s being with good Mrs. White, which
induces me to inquire here and to what college he goes. Though I love to
speak well of a bridge that affords a safe carriage cannot best regret that
the time spent at New Haven when I reflect what superior advantages
one designed either for physics or law may be under at New York. This
consideration will make me desirous of getting my brother Heathcote here,
213
that under the particular law of the best of men as soon as he has resolution
to shun the allurements of the vicious and judgment to despise the examples
of case combs. For divines New Haven or perhaps Princeton has better
instructors, Cambridge U are better acquainted with, and perhaps already
determined in its favor.
With the sincerest regards to Mrs. Dering and children, I am dear Sir your
affectionate friend and most humble servant S Muirson
I live with Mr. Duane in Broad Street or may after be found at Mr. Broome’s.
• There was an earthquake centered on Virginia on February 21, 1774.
Dear Sir
I thank you for your friendly letter which discovers a mind turned towards
Book: 4
true happiness – – there is a striking contrast between our situations, but they
Number: 327
are both liable to temptations and sorrows.
Date: 3/11/1774
To: Thomas Dering
From: Abigail Grant
Place: London
Your sphere of action has rather been contracting for some time, mine
enlarging – from the day of quitting my retirement at [-], I have been
entering farther and farther into life and am at last set down admits
dissipation and hurry and early life. How unlikely did an event of this kind
appear the was I not one of the last whose circumstances seemed to lead to
such a step – everything smiled in my native land, and I enjoyed amongst
my friends, every reasonable wish - but he that appoints our habitation and
fixes our lot ordered by residence here for a time and I have not any cause to
complain at it. I have met with characters new to me, but common to those
of more experience, the virtuous circle I had moved in kept me ignorant
of what I now well know and caused me to believe what was seriously
engaged for deceit and lies. I was taught to abhor and ever to place myself
at a distance from them. Here I have seen their full face – but they have not
been permitted to do any essential hurt. That power which restrains wrath
prevented many base designs and tho late just an effectual stop to perfidy.
The account you gave of the seasons was distressing but I hope the prayers
of the righteous will avail and avert the awful judgment threatened –
Mr. Grant thinks your children write very well and has no doubt they will
have a proper education - here - without a particular friend to watch young
minds they are soon poisoned and instead of men and women you have apes
and monkeys – to be sure the advantages are great, with the discrete guide,
and you may bring everything to perfection sooner then with you each one
studies his own part and steadily attends to a particular branch - this being
the case they excel in their way in which diversity of employments will
never admit of - if prominence permit I shall return to America and do not
propose to use much ceremony about making a visit to your Island.
It would add much to our present comfort, was your family near us, for
be assured, we are there sincere well wishes any services in my power pray
command and let us live as relations. I have had repeated letters from Mrs.
Edwards who I find continues easy and comfortable – she shows a very kind
214
attention to our daughter, who without an English education, is like to be a
clever girl --Should any person remember Nabby Chesebrough, mention me to them
kindly - for I think with pleasure of some [-] that passed in your pretty retreat
- Mr. Grant joins me and friendly regard and thinks it is high time that I
should tell you I am your friend and humble servant
Abigail Grant
London
11 March 1774
• To punish the citizens of Massachusetts, Boston Harbor was to be shut down, and the seat of government moved. The
March 31, 1774 Intolerable Act began: “AN ACT to discontinue, in such manner, and for or such time as are therein
mentioned, the landing and discharging, lading or shipping, of goods, wares, and merchandise, at the town, and within the
harbor, of Boston, in the province of Massachusetts Bay, in North America.” [ushistory.org]
• When Elizabeth Wentworth was speaking of the loss of her negroes, she was talking about her slaves dying. The Derings,
their relatives, and friends all had slaves to do the heavy or unpleasant labor required in every household. If you could afford
them you had them.
• One of Mrs. Wentworth’s daughters married Mr. Brinley. Thomas’s wife Mary was the daughter of Brinley Sylvester,
whose grandmother was Grizzell Brinley, whose brother Thomas arrived with her from England in the mid-1600s.
Boston May 22, 1774
Book: 4
My dear brother
Number: 328
It was with great pleasure I received your favor by Mr. Martain, and happy
Date: 5/22/1774
to hear so particularly from your family by such a friend – you must be too
To: Thomas Dering
sensible of my affection for you and attribute my silence and not complying
From: Elizabeth Wentworth with your desire to neglect and inattention, far from it, for it has given me the
Place: Boston
great concern that I could not accomplish what I so earnestly wished.
When I left Boston the later end of August pleased myself with the thoughts
of meeting Capt. Simpson at Portsmouth, but unluckily missed him, then I
applied to his wife who said she was very willing to deliver up the chest could
I get an order from Mr. Fitch, though Mr. Dering had never paid any passage
for himself and servant, yet they were desirous of delivering up the cloaks,
soon after that heard one of the Mr. Fitches was at New York and would be
in Boston.
Soon as I heard of his arrival wrote Mr. Brinley to apply for an order, his
answer was he knew Mr. Dering owed his brother, who was no small matter
in advance for him and he should write him. Mr. Brinley replied he was
sensible of it, but a few summer cloaks would fetch so small a sum that it
were not worth mentioning. He then said he would give him an order but
did not. Sometime after he mentioned it to him again reminding him that he
had forgot the order he promised, for answer had returned you shall have it,
the next day set out for New York and left no order. He is now just returned
and I must be obliged to address it myself for Mr. Brinley says he is so much
lengthy detail were it not to set you [-] right in regard to my proceeding-and
let you know the cause that prevented not writing before –-
215
I put on board a vessel bound to New London my old side saddle if it can be
of the least service to my niece it will give pleasure. I wish it was better worth
her acceptance but like its owner shows what time can do. You would have
received it long before this, had my absence not [-].
Your niece Mrs. Rogers that was I returned here with. She is married to
Dr. Perkins not our old friend Nat but William Lee Perkins. They came to
Portsmouth and married at the governor’s who I left with Mrs. Wentworth
in perfect health and all the rest of our friends. Except his father who still
continues in a declining state. Mr. Martain has so lately seen you that I need
not be particular in regard to Portsmouth friends.
My journey to Boston at this season was to be with Mrs. Brinley in her laying
in. She is getting well and I shall return to Portsmouth after visiting Mr.
Apthorpe at Braintree and Thomas at Marshfield. How happy should I be
to meet my dear brother and good sister at any of these places. Do you never
designed to make us so by a visit. I can answer for the Governor that it would
give him great pleasure to see you.
How changed is Boston? It is not old age that makes me think so. You will
be of my opinion when tell you Gov. Hutchinson and his daughter sails for
London in 10 days. How cruelly have they used it that gentlemen - here but
he stands high at home. The King has expressed a desire to see him, sent
leave for him to come home and General Gage governor here in his room.
Our harbor is to be shut next month. No vessels allowed to come in or out.
The commissioners board to be removed to Salem, they are to be the seat
of government, shortly the righteous is removed from the evil to come, what
will be the fate of poor Boston? God only knows. Ever since I can remember
anything tho [-] has been the times, that they never were so bad as now.
Thank heaven I don’t die very soon shall see what many never did that is
better times for worse can be surely. I heard from our sister Monk yesterday
through her son. He writes his mother is now able to sit in her chair. She has
been very ill with [-] fever. Her son is married in London and expected here
next month. I know nothing of the lady married only that her name was Ms.
Adams. Whether fortune interests or accomplishments the lady induced him
to the connection is uncertain. I wish them happy.
The rest of my family here are as when I wrote you last. Mr. Brinley lives
where we did. We have three sons and two daughters; as their family
increases, mine diminishes. Dina is dead the poor creature breathed her last
just as I came in so that now I have no servant though I had those left me.
Mr. Brinley reminded me that she made the seventh Negro I had buried since
he lived in this house. So you see my dear brother we all meet with our trials
and troubles, yet not more than we deserve.
I have run this letter to great lengths and nothing agreeable in mind next
hope something will offer to make it more so. I shall close here after my most
216
sincere love regards and best wishes ever attend Mrs. Dering who I shall
always have the highest esteem for you may rest assured of the affection of
your unalterable sister Elizabeth Wentworth
• Between March and June, 1774, the Intolerable Acts were decreed: AN ACT for or the impartial administration of
justice in the cases of persons questioned for any acts done by them in the execution of the law, or for the suppression of riots
and tumults, in the province of the Massachuset’s Bay, in New England. AN ACT for the better regulating the government
of the province of the Massachuset’s Bay, in New England. (All representatives of the people will be appointed by the
Crown.) Established June 2, 1774, the Quartering Act of 1774 was similar in substance to the Quartering Act of 1765.
“And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid that, if it shall happen at any time that any officers or soldiers in His
Majesty’s service shall remain within any of the said colonies without quarters for the space of twenty four hours after such
quarters shall have been demanded, it shall and may be lawful for the governor of the province to order and direct such and
so many uninhabited houses, outhouses, barns, or other buildings as he shall think necessary to be taken (making a reasonable
allowance for the same) and make fit for the reception of such officers and soldiers, and to put and quarter such officers and
soldiers therein for such time as he shall think proper.” [ushistory.org]
Dear Sir
Book: 4
At last I send your straw hat, which has been waiting some time for an
Number: 330
opportunity. I promise myself the pleasure of making a rural excursion as
Date: 6/8/1774
far as Shelter Island sometime this summer as I shall have more leisure than
To: Thomas Dering
usual. At present have only time to desire my best regards to Mrs. Dering and
From: Sylvester Muirson
family I am your friend and humble servant S Muirson
Place: New York
New York 8 June 1774
Book: 4
Number: 329
Date: 8/5/1774
To: Thomas Dering
From: James Reeve
Place: Southold
….
• “The first Continental Congress met in Carpenter’s Hall in Philadelphia, from September 5 to October 26, 1774.
Carpenter’s Hall was also the seat of the Pennsylvania colonial legislature. All of the colonies except Georgia sent delegates.
These were elected by the people, by the colonial legislatures, or by the committees of correspondence of the respective colonies.
The colonies present there were united in a determination to show a combined authority to Great Britain, but their aims were
not uniform at all. Pennsylvania and New York sent delegates with firm instructions to seek a resolution with England. The
other colonies’ voices were defensive of colonial rights, but pretty evenly divided between those who sought legislative parity,
and the more radical members who were prepared for separation. Virginia’s delegation was made up of a most even mix of
these and not incidentally, presented the most eminent group of men in America. Colonel George Washington, Richard Henry
Lee, Patrick Henry, Edmund Pendleton, Colonel Benjamin Harrison, Richard Bland, and at the head of them Peyton
Randolph — who would immediately be elected president of the Congress. The objectives of the body were not entirely
clear but, with such leadership as was found there, a core set of tasks was carried out. It was agreeable to all that the King
and Parliament must be made to understand the grievances of the colonies and that the body must do everything possible to
communicate the same to the population of America, and to the rest of the world.” [ushistory.org]
217
New York 21st of September 1774
Book: 4
Dear Sir
Number: 331
When my brother left town, he desired me to let you know the price of a
Date: 9/21/1774
secondhand Windsor chair; I therefore do myself the pleasure to inform you,
To: Thomas Dering
they are to be sold from £ 10 – £ 20 – per chair; those of the last price have
From: Benjamin W. Muirson steel springs and are very good – – my great hurry among dry goods must
Place: New York
excuse my short epistle and want of an opportunity mind not informing you
sooner – – my affectionate respects to Mrs. Dering and my young cousins
from your affectionate cousin and very humble servant Benjamin W Muirson
• Nat Ray Thomas, a wealthy landowner in Marshfield, accepted the appointment as a Mandamus Councilor to the British
Governor of Massachusetts and thus received the animus of most of his neighbors.
• There had been an earthquake on February 2, 1774, which had caused the drowning death of Thomas Jefferson’s sister
Elizabeth. There were after-shocks on March 2. There was another earthquake on September 20 in Europe. There is no
record of an earthquake near Newport in early October; however, there must have been a disturbance to warrant Margaret’s
referring to it.
Dear brother
I received yours by Pendleton with pleasure according to your desire have
Book: 4
read Mr. Henry on the passage referred to great and treasure promotes
Number: 332
promises to the children of God happy thrice happy for those that can
Date: 10/21/1774
by faith applied them to their own joy. I am full of doubts and fears at
To: Thomas Dering
sometimes hope I can find sure mark, but for the most part am ready to say I
From: Margaret
have no kite to them no lot in this matter oh dreadful state O pray that I may
Chesebrough
not rest till I rest in Christ.
Place: Newport
The heart is dead and desperate wicked who can know it. If I know my own
sane interest in Christ and his pardoning mercy his favor in the light of his
countenance lifted upon me in all my salvation he would be all my joy. What
is all this world and everything in it when compared with this. I know it is my
one fault that I am at this awful uncertainty. I have an evil heart of unbelief
a [-] will and a hard heart. O that it might be bound and broken – – I think
with you that our nation and land seem to be filling up their, in equity, [-]
but hope God has a people near and dear to him some gap men in just day
of Jacob trouble who we trust is stir up earnestly applying the throne of
grace we hope for Christ [--] may be heard for that the Lord will appear for
us – –
Doubtless you have heard that Mr. Thomas is one of the new fangled
counselors. He has been availed on and made to resume his seat. I am sorry
for his memorable wife as I think she is a lover of peace and goodness – – I
must conclude with love to the good deacon are when you see him. I feel
a great regard for him – – I am your most affectionate sister Margaret
Chesebrough
The enclosed was wrote near a fortnight ago ten children took it in his head
to go for a freight which offered I fear it has been some disappointment to
you. I hope you will not let your servants exposed themselves to oblige him.
I am sure Mr. Chesebrough does not desire it as he did not go at the time
218
appointed. The last week had a shock of an earthquake. Oh that these awful
times we might be stirred up to get near the Lord and be prepared for his
holy will. I am with sincere our regard yours MC Newport October 21 ‘74 I
send Dr. Watts
• The Articles of Association, were passed by the Continental Congress in Philadelphia on October 20, 1774. The
Association was a universal prohibition of trade with Great Britain. Though it made a handful of exceptions, it prohibited
import, consumption, and export of goods with England. Unlike most of the individual associations, it established citizen
committees to enforce the act throughout the colonies. [ushistory.org] Thomas Dering signed the Association in 1775. He
was be chairman of the Shelter Island Committee in 1776. [Mather, Frederic Gregory, The Refugees of 1776 from Long
Island to Connecticut, Part I, page 329.]
Shelter Island October 28, 1774
Sir, I have agreed with Mr. Dering for his cattle and as it is not likely I shall
Book: 4
be at home so soon as he will want them killed. I think likely you may want
Number: 351
them if so I am free that you may take them. If you and Mr. Dering agree
Date: 10/28/1774
send a few lines to Mr. Dering and my wife which likely you will deliver to
To: John Foster, Sag Harbor
Mr. Dering yourself soon. I have been very unlucky in having headwinds
From: Phinneas Fanning
so that I have never got there until Thursday last and find money scarce. I
Place: Shelter Island
depart to go further when wind and weather permits. From your very humble
servant Phineas Fanning
Book: 4
Number: 333
Date: 11/11/1774
To: Thomas Dering
From: John Foster
Place: Sag Harbor
Sag Harbor ye 11 November 1774
Mr. Brown and I would send you by the [-] Mr. Fosdick Corey, Col. Thomas
Peters to me which pleased to praise and let Mr. Corey know to price Mr.
Thomas was to give you for the cattle and the payments and if it [-] I will
take the cattle and as we are engaged in [-] I would have them brought
directly that I may kill them this week. I have left it with Mr. Corey to get Mr.
Howes to bring them over this from you to [-] John Foster
Shelter Island 10 November 1774
Mr. Foster
Received yours dated 11 November and one from Col. Fanning to you
dated 28 October relative to my fat cattle. Col. left me we agreed if he did
not return in four weeks (which time was up last Monday) I was to write to
his wife and he would send for them, for he should write her upon ye affair
before he went off – – agreeable to engagement. Wrote and sent my letter
Tuesday last but have received no answer yet.
Upon whole though, have not received your letter from Col. which he
mentions in his letter to you. Have ventured to let your cattle go to you – – he
was to have them at two and a half [-] round, a young bull included among
them – – to pay me the whole price ye fall if he could raise it, if not a part ye
fall and the remainder as soon as he could get it but yet whole to be paid by
next March court time without fail.
These were ye terms he was to have them upon – – and Mr. Braddock Corey
tells B as a message from you yet you would pay me 50 or 60 £ in a fortnight
or three weeks of ye remainder. I hoped I would wait something longer for
60. I expect you will pay me within three weeks ye remainder as soon as you
219
can, but not to exceed next March court time – – if I am not able to go to the
Harbor (as have but little expectation of being indisposed in body) somebody
must take ye wait for me.
Mr. Corey tells me you have engaged Mr. Samuel L’Hommedieu to do the
business. I like him very well – – there is one thing must acquaint you further
in my agreement with Mr. Fanning and all others who have had my cattle yet
out for myself being for sale whether for my own use and not charged in the
weight of each cattle you have though should be glad to have it weighed for a
satisfaction to myself and yet you would take good care of the hide for me till
I shall see you or write you further about it which in the need for at present
from your friend and humble servant TD
Desire a count of each creature may be taken separately.
Book: 4
Number: 335
Date: 11/30/1774
To: Thomas Dering
From: James Reeve
Place: Southold
….
• Sarah Thomas’s home in Marshfield was now being used as a barracks. Nat Ray Thomas had become the leader of the
heavily Tory population, the largest on the South Shore. Support of the British government was strong because so many of
the large estate owners were dependent on the Crown serving in the government or the military. As tensions between the Tories
and the Patriots in Marshfield increased, Nat Thomas requested British troops to be sent to Marshfield. The King’s Own 4th
Regiment of 114 men arrived on January 23, 1775. They took up residence in Sarah’s house. [Krusell, Cynthia Hager and
Betty Magown Bates, Marshfield, A Town of Villages, 1640-1990, 1990, page 14-15]
Book: 4
Number: 334
Date: 3/9/1775
To: Thomas Dering
From: James Reeve
Place: Southold
….
• On March 23, 1775, Patrick Henry delivered his speech asking for either Liberty or Death. “This is no time for ceremony.
The question before the House is one of awful moment to this country. For my own part, I consider it as nothing less than a
question of freedom or slavery; and in proportion to the magnitude of the subject ought to be the freedom of the debate. It is
only in this way that we can hope to arrive at truth, and fulfill the great responsibility, which we hold to God and our country.
Should I keep back my opinions at such a time, through fear of giving offense, I should consider myself as guilty of treason
towards my country, and of an act of disloyalty toward the Majesty of Heaven, which I revere above all earthly kings.”
[ushistory.org]
• Ezra L’Hommedieu’s grandmother was Patience Sylvester. He was a resident of Southold and a graduate of the Yale
Class of 1754. He practiced law. His wife was Charity Floyd, sister of William Floyd who signed the Declaration of
Independence. He was active in local politics and served his town, county and state. In 1775, he was a member of the New
220
York Provisional Congress and signed
Association.
Newthe
York
April 3, 1775
Book: 4
Sir
Number: 337
The little time I can spare from public business I employ in writing to my
Date: 4/3/1775
friends. You will not be surprised when I tell you that all things wear the
To: Thomas Dering
appearance of a general Civil War. It is no longer doubted that the troops
From: Ezra L’Hommedieu
destined for America will all come. Five regiments are daily expected at New
Place: New York
York where they will land unmolested as ordered by the Congress when they
behave peaceably, but if they use any violence or break ground force will be
repelled by force. It is thought by many that they are troops will be wanted
at Boston and there be ordered above 2000 [-] are on their march for this
government to encamp nigh.
The line where they will be ready to give assistance if wanted which with
the Jersey forces and 1000 of military in the city who are in readiness and
embodied it is hoped will secure the town and keep the communication within
the country. The raising men and money are two grand points in our present
circumstances. It is proposed and in contemplation that the general Congress
strike a continental paper currency which likely will amount anigh 1 million.
Each colony to take its proportion. If this should take place it will present a
tax on the people at present in the city of New York a tax could be collected,
but in the country it would be attended with insufferable difficulties. It is
thought that this government’s proportion of [-] Army will be nigh 3000 size
the standing military.
Many gentlemen have advanced money in the city before we met to the
amount of some thousands on the public. Fairly for the present emergencies
of the colony. Attempts have been made to raise men in Canada and New
England people taking the forts and the armed vessel on the lake and one
Allen from this government, a bad man, making a dissent on St. John in
Canada makes it probable that they will arm against us and this government
on account of its situation, but the seat of war if the controversy is not settled.
This Congress have published their dislike of any violence offered to the
Canadians and have addressed them assuring them of our friendship. I
depend the Continental Congress will hold out to government some proposals
of accommodation. I think it now a good time as the ministry are much
embarrassed in all probability.
I cannot think that there will be a sufficient number of the king’s troops in
America this summer to make the war very general. The many governments
may be exceedingly [-] the clergy of all denominations in the city have agreed
to pray with us every morning at the opening of the Congress, Dr. Amoody
began first. The city is very peaceable. There is no disputes about Whigs
and Tory but all seem to be for self-preservation. Though their opinions are
different as to the means tending to that purpose. The people’s hearts we
know not. You will excuse me from saying more as I am now called and have
only time to subscribe myself your humble servant Ezra L’Hommedieu
221
Book: 4
Number: 336
Date: 4/17/1775
To: Thomas Dering
From: John Ireland
Place: Huntington
Huntington 17 April 1775
Mr. Dering
Sir
I have sent Benjamin Wood and Harvey Rogers with their sloop to receive
the wheat I bought of you who will pay you the cash as soon as it is delivered
on board their long boat according to bargain anyway at New York last week
and way informed the top price for wheat was six and four pence. I have
ordered them to pay six shillings per bag for the wheat I bought on the Island
and if it should appear that wheat is a higher price at New York you know
our bargain from your humble servant John Ireland
I should send for the wheat before now and the captain had not seen Capt.
Vail who was recommended to me and expected he would be instructed to
transport the cash to the Island.
• WAR: The Battle of Lexington and Concord took place on April 19, 1775.
• Word of the battle reached Marshfield the following day by messenger who rode through the night to deliver the news of war.
Patriots were already plotting an attack on the Regiment camped on Nat Thomas’s land, and on the morning of April 20,
Captain Willie Thomas climbed to the top of Ward’s Hill and fired three shots to alert the town that war had begun. The
British troops at Thomas’s quickly retreated to two sloops and departed for Boston. Nat Thomas, fearing for his life, rode his
black horse across marshes, fording rivers, and riding on the beaches until he reached Hingham where he found a departing
packet for Boston. When the riled up Patriots arrived at the Thomas’s door with a casket for Nat, they found only Sarah there
to greet them. [Krusell, Cynthia Hager and Betty Magown Bates, Marshfield, A Town of Villages, 1640-1990, page 1415]
• After Nat fled, the Town of Marshfield confiscated the Thomas land, but, in the end, they allowed Sarah and her eight
children to remain on the land that Sarah had a right to as her one-third dower right.
• Apparently, Abigail was dining with her American friend Thomas Hutchinson, who was living in exile in London, on the
evening that he learned of the Battle at Lexington. She left London for the Colonies on June 5, 1775. She arrived in New
York on August 29 and in Newport on September 11. Her daughters were still at school in Boston.
• The British had made Long Island Sound unsafe.
• The Winslows, the Thomas’s neighbor in Marshfield, were as important in the Town of Marshfield as the Thomases.
They also had been living on their Marshfield estate for nearly 150 years. Many of the Tory families in Boston were sent to
the country to live with relatives, and Anna Winslow was sent to Marshfield to live with Sarah Thomas. [Krusell, Cynthia
Hager and Betty Magown Bates, Marshfield, A Town of Villages, 1640-1990, page 14-15]
• In May, Joseph and Hepzi Edwards journeyed to Marshfield to stay with the Sarah Thomas. They returned to Boston in
September.
• WAR: May 10, 1775, the Second Continental Congress convened in Philadelphia. How would the colonists meet the
military threat of the British? It was agreed that a CONTINENTAL ARMY would be created. How would supplies
be paid for? The Congress authorized the printing of money. Before the leaves had turned, Congress had even appointed a
standing committee to conduct relations with foreign governments, should the need ever arise to ask for help. No longer was the
Congress dealing with mere grievances. It was a full-fledged governing body. [ushistory.org]
222
• WAR: On June 15, the Continental Congress appointed George Washington as Commander in Chief. He agreed to serve
without pay. Two days later the Battle of Bunker Hill was fought.
Book: 4
Number: 338
Date: 9/15/1775
To: Thomas Dering
From: Joshua Winslow
Place: New London
New London 15 September 1775
Dear Sir
When I received the enclosed from my deserving neighbor Mrs. Thomas.
I was in hopes of a fully intended giving myself the very great pleasure of
seeing you in delivering it with my own hands at your pleasure and agreeable
habilitation but I find now that it cannot be so for various reasons.
Mr. Storer and his son Charles called upon me at Marshfield about a
fortnight passed. On a prior engagement I made with him to take the tour of
this colony and we accordingly set out on our journey the fifth of this month.
We have been ever since traveling and have passed over hundred miles of the
most dismal roads that I presume the earth can produce (in a country so long
cultivated as this) and arrive here but this morning and propose going on for
New Haven after dinner – –
Mr. Storer is equally desirous with myself of making you a visit and equally
mortified at our disappointment but we have been already so long from
home that the time allowed ourselves is much contracted for making the
remainder of our journey – – add thus the unhappy state of the times
what [-] the threats of the [--] who have already been your way and its said
are apprehended again here about into whose hands it would be a most
disagreeable circumstance to fall for as the both of us would be very glad to
see Boston yet we should be unwilling to be conveyed there by a man of war
– – another circumstance against us is a contrary wind and [-] weather so
that upon the whole we have thought it most expedient to postpone our visit
until another season. In the meantime wishing it may be agreeable to you to
see us our way – –
You know that I have been a neighbor of Mrs. Thomas at Marshfield about
two years. We live very pleasantly and agreeably there as you may have heard
that Mrs. Thomas’s home was a barrack last winter at which time the family
was dispersed. Mrs. Thomas and Mrs. Gooch with five more were within till
the troops removed. Mrs. Gooch, Herb, Mary, and Polly Thomas are yet with
us – I left three weeks –
Do you know that Mrs. Grant (that was Nabby Chesebrough) is in this
country. We dined yesterday at one [-] at Stonington who told us Mrs. Grant
dined there two days before on her way to Rhode Island, just arrived from
England and was [-] -- I knew there was an acquaintance between Mr.
Boutineau of this town and you therefore to Mrs. Thomas that if I did not
go to Shelter Island I would leave her letter with him to forward you and she
might be sure it would go safe accordingly. I shall leave this with him who has
promised to have it safe delivered – –
So let us hear from you. First a letter to the care of Mr. Storer Esq. [-] and it
will get safe along – – I hope the times will be better soon. There seems to be
a prospect of it. I want to have a days conversation with you at least – wish it
223
could be so. Mrs. Winslow and Mrs. Gooch desired their kind remembrances
to you and Mrs. Dering and hoped I should see you – – and also Mrs.
Edwards and husband who accompanied us as far as Taunton (one day’s
journey) you know they have been with Mrs. Thomas since May last – –
I should be tempted to write on, though in haste have I anything but [-]
to write with – – so you will excuse my [-] and accept and present to Mrs.
Dering our kind love and regards also to your children. I wish I could see
them and know how many and who they are – – we have only a Nancy
Green and a John Henry one now 16 the other now six – – [---] I am with
sincere esteem and regard dear Sir your affectionate friend and very humble
Joshua Winslow.
• Mr. Winslow’s young son was dead! Sylvester Dering, now 17, stopped off in Marshfield on his way to Cambridge.
Marshfield 14 October 1775
My dear Sir
Book: 4
It gives me much satisfaction this forenoon to see your agreeable son after an
Number: 342
interval of 14 years – – O Mr. Dering – – I had a son too when I wrote you
Date: 10/14/1775
other day from New London – – he was then well a promising a pretty bird
To: Thomas Dering
just upon six years old. – – But when I had got so near home as to come in
From: Joshua Winslow
sight of Mr. Thomas’s house I came in sight not only of the burying ground
Place: Marshfield
also but of the funeral of my dear lamb, which they were then attending. – –
O sir can you paint to yourself an idea of my sensations – – that I need not
attempt it myself. It has pleased a righteous and holy God to quench my coat
to deprive me of the delight of my heart and under such circumstances as
to be very grievous and afflictive. You pity, you sympathize with me, I know,
and with my mourning wife – – we feel the loss of an only son – – we mourn
it, but I hope do not murmur or repine -- We have subscribed to the cross
and now it is come upon us – – we may not fret or contend against the Lord
– – he has done it and I would be still and know that the it is God. Would be
dumb, and not open my mouth. By way of murmur – –
We don’t mourn as those who have no hope. We comfort ourselves with the
thoughts of our child’s being removed from a world of (now more than ever)
sin, and sorrow to (we hope) the region of eternal day and happiness – – And
as we believe that Jesus died and rose again even so them also which sleep in
Jesus do we believe that God will bring with him. And then my dear Sir, at
that happy day, although our house be not so with God, and he do not make
it to grow, yet, if we are interested in the blessings of that covenant, which is
ordered in all things and sure, we shall meet our dear departed offspring in
the region of blessedness and so shall be ever with the Lord and with one
another singing anthems of praise and hallelujah onto him that siteth upon
the throne and to the Lamb forever and ever --Amen—
Excuse me my good friend by sorrows press upon me and when I mentioned
your son I could not but reflect upon my own life nor help mentioning it,
for Oh, it is foremost upon my mind but I have done – – I was very, very
glad to see your son. I am mortified at the same time that you could not
accompany him but am glad you had thoughts thereof. Because I hope you
224
will more than think of it. Should another season revolve over us. You must
be afraid it would be vastly satisfactory to us. But oh what shall we say to
the distressing times which it has pleased us in hating God to bring upon us
– – For shall there be evil in a city or country and the Lord hath not done it.
May it be in mercy to the Lord that we are thus severely chastised and since
his judgments are so conspicuously abroad. Oh that we the inhabitants may
learn righteousness.
I am sorry we can see so little of your son. He came but last evening and
says he must return to Cambridge tomorrow. I was in hopes he would have
passed the Sabbath (not approving of traveling on the Lords day when
unavoidable) but he says there is a necessity – – I shall leave to him to inform
you everything respecting our friends where he is – – As to my own family
would be thankful that what of us remains are so well in a time of such
general disorder – –
Though Mrs. Winslow has been complaining for some weeks and was
yesterday confined to her chamber – – but is below again today – – my
daughter is in health – – Mrs. Gooch is well as she generally is – – They
all join in kind love and regards to yourself Mrs. Dering and family – – We
wish to see you all here or at Shelter Island or anywhere but God only knows
whether we ever shall be indulged in the happiness again in this life – –
should it not be so – may we meet in the world above never to part more – –
I am dear Sir very truly your affectionate afflicted friend and kinsman Joshua
Winslow
• On November 13, 1775, Ezra Stiles, Abigail Grant’s friend, wrote: “I sat out on a journey with Mrs. Grant of London
for the American Army. We arrived at Cambridge 16th and 17th. I introduced her to the Generals Washington, Lee,
Putnam, Heath & Green, & sundry Officers of the first Distinction. We were received with the greatest Humanity and
Politeness. We reviewed the Lines at Prospect & Winter Hills: then the tree forts of the Central Division. On 18th Rode to
Roxbury, visited General Thomas, viewed the Lines of the Right Wing of the Army. 19th Ldsdy kept Sabbath at Milton &
preached for Mr. Robbins Eph. Ii 8-10. Returned to Newport Wedy Evening.” Apparently on the 17th Generals Putnam
and Gates visited Mr. Stiles and Mrs. Grant and spent the evening in conversation with them. [Boonstra, ibid. October
2002, page 385.]
• Ebenezer Storer’s wife, Elizabeth Green, the mother of his three children -- Elizabeth, Charles, and George – died in
1774.
• Charles Storer was entering Harvard College.
Westown November 15, 1775
Dear Sir
Book: 4
I am obliged by your favor of ye ninth October and should have
Number: 343
acknowledged the receipt of it sooner, but was at Newberry when your son
Date: 11/17/1775
was here. I have been journeying almost ever since. I am very sorry I did not
To: Thomas Dering
see him and desire to be kindly remembered to him.
From: Ebenezer Storer
Place: Westown
You may be assured it would have given me great pleasure to have made
you a visit – – I had fully intended at the summer before last when on a
journey to Connecticut, but was obliged at that time to hasten home and this
225
year Mr. Winslow and I had determined to come but were advised at New
London not to venture lest we should be taken and carried into Boston.
I take very kindly your inquiries after my dear children – – Betsy is married
to Mr. Atkinson and prettily settled. She has brought her husband a son since
I left the town. – – Charles my eldest son entered college this summer – –
George is at [-] school Newberry and my little Polly with her sister and her
Aunt Green in poor Boston whilst I ofter wandering for some months am
now looking out for a habitation for the winter. Thus are we dispersed and
whether we shall again meet in this world is known only to him who orders
all things in infinite wisdom. – –
I knew, my dear Sir, that you tenderly sympathized with me under the heavy
affliction with which it has pleased a sovereign providence to visit me in the
death of one of the most amiable of women, my dear Mrs. Storer, indeed,
made a happy exchange. She was taken from the evil to come and I trust I
have been in some good measure resigned to the will of heaven. I desire to be
more and more so but it is a loss I still feel. It goes near my heart, that’s left a
wound which will not soon close -- our foundations are breaking, and as Dr.
Young says – – ‘When such friends pass to his the survivor dies.’
Sir, if the loss of such near and dear friends does but wean us more and
more from worldly enjoyments and fix our hearts upon the infinitely more
important scenes of the eternal world, it will have a happy affect, and be
good for us that we have been thus afflicted – –
And now my good friend what shall we say to the times. They are dark and
gloomy and it is a day of distress and doubtful expectation; Happy those who
amidst these public calamities can look forward with joy conscious of their
interest in that city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God:
But still more happy those who having passed the toils and troubles of this
present life are safe landed on the peaceful shores of immortal joy, where the
wicked cease from troubling, and the weary are forever at rest.
You will present my best respects to your good lady and family and accept
the same yourself from your affectionate friend and kinsman Ebenezer Storer
Book: 4
Number: 344
Date: 12/11/1775
To: Thomas Dering
From: James Reeve
Place: Southold
….
226
Letter #303, from Thomas Hutchinson, Jr. in Boston to Thomas Dering.
227
Letter #326, from Sylvester Muirson in New York, to Thomas Dering on October 25, 1775.
228
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Berkin, Carol, Revoutionary Mothers, Random House, 2005.
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Curtis, George Munson, Florence Virginia Berger, American Church Silver of the Seventeenth and
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Heckscher, Morrison H., American Furniture in the Metropolitan Museum of Art; Late Colonial Period,
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of Art, 1992.
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230
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231
Letter #178, from Henry Dering in Boston to his brother Thomas, May 26, 1764.
232
Index
A
Adams
Pegene 98, 103, 106, 145
William 6, 11, 13, 14, 59, 64, 65, 68, 69, 70, 77, 80, 81,
84, 85, 86, 88, 95, 96, 99, 100, 128, 129, 140, 141,
142, 144, 151, 159, 160, 166, 167, 168, 169, 172,
173, 174, 198, 199, 200, 204, 205, 206, 208, 209
Alexander
Cosmos 181
Apthorpe
Gemmy 124
Jack 144
James 29, 149
John 197
Articles of Association 219
Atkinson
Theodore 5, 15, 19, 45, 52, 53, 58, 66, 68, 71, 72, 84,
85, 87, 107
B
Bachus
Ebenezer 58
Barker
Elizabeth 193, 194
Nehemiah 153, 162, 173, 174, 189, 191, 194
Barnaby
Joseph 99
Barrel
Joe 130
Barwick, MA 83
Battle of Lexington and Concord 222
Belknap
Joseph 117, 121, 122, 134
Benning
Ann 5
Blackburn
Joseph 16, 17, 19, 54
Booth
Barrett 122
Boston, MA 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 18, 19, 20, 22,
24, 29, 31, 32, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 42, 43, 45,
47, 50, 51, 52, 53, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 65,
68, 69, 70, 73, 76, 77, 81, 82, 83, 85, 87, 91, 92, 93,
94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100, 101, 103, 104, 105, 106,
107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116,
118, 119, 120, 121, 122, 123, 124, 126, 127, 129,
130, 131, 132, 133, 134, 135, 136, 137, 139, 143,
144, 149, 150, 153, 154, 155, 156, 159, 164, 165,
166, 168, 169, 170, 172, 174, 176, 178, 179, 181,
182, 184, 188, 195, 196, 197, 198, 199, 200, 201,
203, 209, 211, 212, 213, 215, 216, 221, 222, 223,
226, 227, 229
Boston Massacre 181, 182
Boutineau
Thomas 197, 198, 199, 201, 202, 203
Brattle
William 93
Bridgehampton, NY 117, 201, 202
Brigham
Parson 105
Brinley
George 120, 136, 156
Pat 144
Bristol, CT 61
Brookhaven, NY 146, 152, 156, 157, 158, 160
Brown
Desiree 61
James 117
Jane 72
Peleg 182
Browne
James 202
Butler
William 141, 145, 147, 148, 154
C
Cambridge, MA 14, 19, 32, 116, 214, 224, 225
Campbell
John 15
Chesebrough. See Sylvester
Abigail 3, 4, 11, 19, 54, 61, 62, 66, 67, 74, 79, 182, 184,
185, 187, 188
David 3, 8, 14, 16, 19, 61, 86, 89, 111, 187, 229
Margaret 4, 6, 13, 14, 59, 64, 65, 68, 69, 70, 77, 80, 81,
84, 85, 86, 88, 95, 96, 99, 100, 128, 129, 140, 141,
142, 144, 151, 159, 160, 166, 167, 168, 169, 172,
173, 174, 198, 199, 200, 204, 205, 206, 208, 209
William 14, 61
Chignecto, NS 30
Child
Edward 15
Clark
Richard 122
Clarkson
Levinus 149, 154, 180
Coddington
Nancy 73
Comus (Slave) 98, 99, 104, 106, 111, 112, 113, 137, 151,
156, 169, 170
Conkling
Samuel 175
233
Continental Congress 217, 219, 221, 222, 223
Cotton
John 103, 106, 112, 132, 136, 155, 156, 166
Nanny 72
Roland 13
Cowles , CT 93
Crynes
Nathaniel 5
Cummings
Alexander 101, 103
Currency Act 15, 115
D
Dartmouth College 202
Dering. See Sylvester
Elizabeth 88, 150
Harry 118, 136, 150
Henry 5, 11, 14, 15, 32, 40, 43, 45, 46, 51, 56, 81, 82,
83, 88, 90, 91, 93, 94, 97, 100, 109, 111, 113, 114,
115, 120, 124, 127, 132, 133, 135, 136, 149, 154,
206
Henry Edward 15
Henry Packer 105
Mary 4, 61, 64, 86, 88, 105, 195, 204
Nicoll Havens 61
Sylvester 2, 4, 17, 19, 48, 61, 224
Thomas 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 11, 12, 14, 15, 18, 19, 20, 21, 24,
25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39,
40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 51, 52, 53, 56,
57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71,
72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85,
86, 87, 88, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99,
100, 101, 103, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 111, 112,
113, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 120, 121, 122, 123,
124, 125, 127, 128, 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 134,
135, 136, 137, 138, 139, 140, 141, 142, 143, 144,
145, 146, 147, 148, 149, 150, 151, 152, 153, 154,
155, 156, 157, 158, 159, 160, 161, 162, 163, 164,
165, 166, 167, 168, 169, 170, 172, 173, 174, 175,
176, 177, 178, 179, 180, 181, 189, 190, 191, 193,
194, 196, 197, 198, 199, 200, 201, 202, 203, 204,
205, 206, 208, 209, 212, 213, 214, 215, 217, 218,
219, 220, 221, 222, 223, 224, 225, 226, 227, 228
Dinkel
Hannah Stewart 4, 12
Duddington
William 200
E
Earthquake 21, 24, 214, 218
Edwards. See Small
Hepzi (Hepzibah) 3, 4, 100, 103, 105, 106, 107, 109,
112, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 122, 123, 124, 129,
130, 131, 133, 134, 136, 137, 138, 144, 150, 151,
234
153, 154, 155, 156, 159, 166, 168, 170, 179, 195,
196, 222
Joseph 101, 103, 127
England 8, 14, 15, 19, 30, 31, 32, 37, 41, 42, 47, 60, 85, 87,
89, 91, 96, 106, 107, 115, 125, 131, 144, 145, 150,
172, 200, 201, 208, 215, 217, 219, 221, 223, 229, 230
F
Fanning
Phineas 68, 95, 100, 108, 109, 111, 128, 146, ,149, 159,
219, 220
Farnham
Daniel 46, 47, 49, 56, 59, 60
Fosdick
Sarah 61
Thomas 61
Foster
John 219
Franklin
Benjamin 11, 145
Furness
Robert 83
G
Gage
General 169, 170, 171, 216
Gardiner
John 58, 60, 61
Samuel (Sam) 51, 53, 139, 142, 143, 146, 152, 179
Goldthwaite
Betsey 106
Molly 105, 130
Gooch
Jeamy 130
John 5, 11, 12, 13, 21, 29, 40, 60, 106, 131, 134, 135 153,
156, 166, 168, 171, 196
Mary 21, 25, 50, 104, 107, 117, 124, 134, 135, 136, 159,
170, 171, 223, 224, 225
Gordon
Fanny 137
Grant. See Chesebrough
Abigail 4, 13, 54, 75, 78, 100, 182, 184, 185, 186, 187,
188, 189, 203, 207, 208, 210, 211, 212, 214, 215, 225
Alexander 3, 55, 61, 67, 78, 83, 84, 94, 130, 139, 140,
181, 197, 206, 211
Alexander William 186, 197
Great Britain 68, 217, 219
Green
Elizabeth 195, 225
Frank 112, 130, 131
George 107, 134
Ned 116, 136
Sucky 124
Timothy 95, 178
Green, Jr.
Joseph 27, 31, 42, 43, 44
Greenland 45
Greenleaf
Antis 122
Hannah 133, 144
Griffith
Samuel 76, 83, 92
Groton 128, 165
Grover
Joseph 202
H
Haib
Roger 108
Halifax, NS 29, 32, 42, 44, 61, 78, 83, 94, 96, 100, 107,
115, 130, 170
Harvard College 14, 20, 47, 107, 225
Havens
Catharine Nicoll 61
Catherine Mary 61
Esther Sarah 61
Jonathan Nicoll 61
Hearst
Nancy 129
Hitchens
Edward 18, 49
Hobart
Capt. 12
Hordon
Dolly 129
Howard, Jr.
Martin 39, 95
M. W. 139
Hughes
Samuel 82
Hunt
Jobe 137
Hunting
Samuel 103
Huntington 61, 63, 222
Anne 63
Henry 61
Hurd
Nathaniel 15
Hutchinson
Thomas 13, 82, 200, 201, 200, 209, 210, 222, 227
I
Ingraham
Nancy 182
Intolerable Acts 217
Ireland
John 222
Iron Act 15
J
Jamaica 42, 115, 139, 149, 150, 156, 159, 165, 171, 181,
206
Jeffrey
George 53
Jones
Mary Ann 130
Jungerson
Cornel 130
K
King’s Highway 12
L
Lane
Thomas 41, 46, 149, 154, 155
Lane & Booth 6, 32, 39, 41, 43, 46, 88, 90, 93, 115, 189
L’Hommedieu
Ezra 61, 220, 221
Samuel 155, 220
Liverpool 99
Lloyd
Henry 149, 151
London 39, 40, 41, 43, 46, 57, 58, 60, 61, 66, 71, 81, 88,
90, 93, 94, 96, 101, 113, 115, 124, 133, 136, 149,
150, 171, 181, 182, 184, 185, 187, 188, 196, 203,
210, 211, 212, 214, 215, 222, 225
London (Slave) 169, 175
M
MacDowell
Mary 14
Malcolm
Alex 46, 88, 93, 94
Marchant
Henry 187
Marshfield, MA 6, 11, 20, 21, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 33, 36, 37,
38, 40, 47, 48, 50, 52, 53, 57, 59, 62, 65, 105, 118,
120, 121, 122, 127, 139, 158, 163, 175, 178, 201,
216, 218, 220, 222, 223, 224, 225, 230
Mattituck, NY 153, 157, 162, 163, 173, 189, 191, 193, 201
Mifflin
John 19
Mifflin & Saunders 39
Monk
Charles 14
James 5, 11, 14, 115, 168, 176, 196
Anne 29, 44, 171, 195, 196
235
Morris
Judah 14
Muirson
Benjamin W. 218
George 158, 159
Sylvester 213, 217, 228
Mumford
Thaddeus 165
Thomas 61, 201
N
Nelson
John 38
Jonathan 43
Newberry 27, 28, 47, 49, 59, 225, 226
New London, CT 6, 32, 45, 59, 64, 67, 68, 69, 77, 80,
85, 95, 99, 106, 128, 130, 131, 139, 140, 141,
142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, 148, 151, 152,
158, 159, 160, 164, 165, 166, 167, 169, 172,
174, 178, 180, 197, 198, 199, 200, 201, 202,
204, 205, 206, 208, 209, 216, 223, 224, 226
Newport, RI 5, 6, 8, 11, 14, 19, 20, 25, 27, 29, 30, 38,
39, 51, 54, 55, 61, 62, 64, 66, 67, 70, 71, 72, 73,
74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 86, 89, 92, 94, 95,
99, 100, 111, 114, 115, 117, 124, 126, 130, 132,
137, 138, 139, 147, 148, 164, 165, 169, 179,
181, 182, 200, 204, 218, 222, 225, 229
New York, NY 4, 5, 6, 8, 11, 22, 33, 45, 61, 63, 96,
120, 128, 141, 145, 147, 149, 154, 165, 174,
176, 177, 178, 179, 180, 189, 197, 211, 213,
215, 217, 218, 220, 221, 222, 228, 229
Nicoll
William 6, 174, 176
Norwich, CT 58, 142, 212
O
Oliver
Andrew 69, 93, 97, 143, 144, 179
Osborne
Aunt 129
Sarah 181
P
Packer
Elisha 44
Elizabeth 5, 12, 24, 44, 45, 182
Susanna 18, 24
Thomas 5, 24, 45, 60, 66, 81, 196
Packer, Jr.
Thomas 45
Palmer
Charlton 57
Parker
236
William 46, 47
Pease
Simon 147, 148
Pemberton
Col. Mr. 131
Perkins
Nathaniel 113, 114
Philadelphia, PA 11, 19, 39, 211, 217, 219, 222
Phillips
Nancy 30
William 31, 181
Pierce
Daniel 196
Pine
Jackie 130
Portsmouth, NH 5, 15, 19, 20, 24, 28, 29, 34, 35, 36, 38, 43,
45, 46, 47, 49, 52, 56, 58, 65, 68, 71, 72, 76, 78, 82, 83,
84, 85, 87, 91, 92, 96, 97, 99, 107, 113, 119, 130, 131,
196, 201, 215, 216
Potter
Elam 145
Prime
Peggy 13
Providence, RI 84, 85, 200,
Q
Queen’s Street 14, 18, 39
R
Reeve
James 4, 6, 138, 142, 143, 145, 146, 157, 164, 177, 180, 181,
191, 198, 200, 203, 206, 213, 217, 220, 226
Rindye
Elizabeth 34
Rogers
Abigail 14, 61
Harvey 222
N. 144
Russell
Caleb 201
S
Sag Harbor, NY 4, 7, 103, 155, 219
Salem, MA 15, 18, 49, 51, 53, 69, 97, 178, 179, 216
Saltonstall
Gurdon 178, 180
Roswell 147, 158, 164, 165
Samson
Wentworth 130
Sargent
Sarah 35
Shelter Island, NY 4, 5, 6, 8, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 20, 22, 61, 64,
65, 88, 89, 91, 92, 95, 99, 102, 103, 104, 109, 113, 118,
119, 122, 132, 137, 138, 139, 140, 143, 145, 146,
154, 161, 163, 165, 169, 172, 174, 177, 198, 199,
201, 202, 204, 208, 212, 217, 219, 223, 225, 229,
230
Shurbark
Molly 107
Shurtless
Mary 33, 34, 36
Small. See Edwards
Hepzi 29, 30, 31, 47, 48, 49, 51, 98, 99, 103, 138
Hepzibah 3, 4, 6, 18, 24
Susanna Packer 18
Smith
Charles Jeffrey 145, 146, 152, 156, 157, 160, 161, 162,
165
Jeamy 130
Nabby 136
Smithtown, NY 181
Southampton, NY 103
South Haven 165
Southold, NY 4, 6, 138, 142, 143, 145, 146, 157, 158, 164,
175, 177, 179, 180, 181, 190, 191, 198, 200, 202,
203, 206, 213, 217, 220, 226
Stamp Act 115, 144, 145, 200
Stanford, CT 156
Stewart
Charles 45
Stiles
Ezra 61, 181, 187, 207, 225
Stocking
Abner 143
Storer
Charles 225
Ebenezer 195, 225, 226
John 179, 180
Sylvester
Brinley 5, 6, 11, 13, 14, 15, 64, 215
Grizzell 6
Margaret 12
Mary 3, 4, 10, 11, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 29
Mary Burroughs 10, 11, 12, 15
Sylvester Manor. 86
T
Thomas
Nat (Nathaniel Ray, Nat Ray) 6, 11, 20, 24, 25, 26, 27,
28, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 43, 48, 52, 53, 57, 59, 63, 82,
90, 112, 121, 139, 145, 146, 147, 148, 149, 151,
154, 164, 168, 175, 176, 178, 179, 196, 200, 218,
219, 224
Sarah 4, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 33, 36, 37, 38, 40, 47, 53, 57,
62, 63, 65, 118, 120, 121, 163, 164, 175, 176, 182,
204, 220, 222
Thurber
Molly 137
Tomlison
Hannah 63
Townsend
William Blair 212
Townshend Acts 145
V
Vails
Benjamin Jonathan 163
W
Walker
John 150
Watts
John 176, 177, 180
J. W. 178
Welles
Noah 156, 157
Wentworth
Elizabeth 28, 107, 108, 170, 172, 215, 217
Harry 130, 150
Jay 28, 29
John 20, 34, 35, 65, 91, 97, 107
Mark Hanking 20
Samuel 5, 11, 12, 24, 29, 93, 107, 120
T 24
Theodore 96, 97
Thomas 82, 91, 150
Westown 225
Whitefield
Mr. 106, 116, 118, 119, 122, 126, 131
Whiten
Stephen 137
Wickham
Joseph 175
Wiggins
James 141
Winslow
Joshua 30, 31, 36, 150, 201, 223, 224, 225
Wood
Benjamin 222
David 92, 93
Worden
Hannah 130
Wyndham 63
Y
Yale 6, 61, 207
237
Letter #173, from Sarah Thomas to her brother Thomas Dering, April 29, 1764
238
Letter #177, from Joseph Belknap to Thomas Dering, on May 18, 1764.
239
240