Ralph received Samuel's letters from the 25, 28, 30, and 31 of July [see 197a and 197f]. He is unable to visit at the present time, because his brother has gone to visit his parents in Norwich, leaving Ralph in charge of the store. He is surprised at the bad condition of the grey mare upon delivery. Ralph also is unable to locate Samuel's Academy Papers.
Kirkland 243a Ralph W. Kirkland to Samuel Kirkland March 14, 1806 Honored Uncle - Yours by Mr. Bingham I have received and will attend to the contents. The reason why I have not been out before now, is because I have been obliged to pay very close attention to a sick Brother, both by day and by night. He is much better and is able to come into the Store a little, but not to do anything. I send to Aunt 2 lbs Coffee and a roll of Butter, which will be good with a little Codfish if it should be wan Show moreKirkland 243a Ralph W. Kirkland to Samuel Kirkland March 14, 1806 Honored Uncle - Yours by Mr. Bingham I have received and will attend to the contents. The reason why I have not been out before now, is because I have been obliged to pay very close attention to a sick Brother, both by day and by night. He is much better and is able to come into the Store a little, but not to do anything. I send to Aunt 2 lbs Coffee and a roll of Butter, which will be good with a little Codfish if it should be wanted etc. Also some papers from Boston. No letters. Mr. L. has had a letter from Reverend J. T. Kirkland , all well etc. I hope to be able to ride out tomorrow evening. I am Respectfully yours R. W. Kirkland . Friday 2 o'clock PM March 14, 1806 Reverend Samuel Kirkland . Reverend Samuel Kirkland Paris Mr. Bingham Family Letters 1806 and 1807 R.W. Kirklands March 14th, 1806 Show less
Ralph W. Kirkland apologizes for not getting out before now, but he has been nursing a sick brother. He sends two lbs. of coffee, a roll of butter and papers from Boston.
In his last letter Samuel had asked Ralph to have Eli or Joel Bristol bring a horse for Ralph's aunt. However, she now plans to take the stage with General Cortland to Whitestown.
Samuel has been to Albany and is waiting anxiously to hear from the family. Having heard that Mr. Bingham has gone to Susquehanna, Samuel is worried about who will bring a horse for Ralph's aunt. He acquired for his girls some paper and quills which he will forward soon.
Samuel received a gray mare which is in bad condition and consequently out of commission for a while. In his eyes it is a great disappointment and an unnecessary expense. Samuel tells his nephew that Mr. Hart's sister just arrived. Samuel wishes to hear from Ralph at least once a week and hopes Ralph will make a short visit to the Springs soon. He conveys his love to Allen and hopes to send him some money to help with the business.
Samuel reminds Ralph to send his (Samuel's) silver inlaid stirrups or better yet bring them in person. He tells Ralph that the Springs could do wonders for his health and informs him that he still hopes to send Ralph a little pecuniary support. Samuel wants to know if Ralph has had an interview with Mr. Lothrop yet. He also talks at length about fattening up the hogs! P.S. If safe conveyance is available, send the Academy Papers at once.
Samuel wants Ralph to come visit today. He speaks of making a room warmer and improving its condition, having consulted a Mr. Burton and a Mr. Trowbridge.
Samuel advises Ralph on the best way to send the Academy papers in order that they arrive as soon as possible. His son Thornton (John Thornton Kirkland) is sending Samuel several sermons, and he wishes Ralph to unearth a few of Samuel's sermons to send back to Thornton.