William Rotch Sr. letter to Thomas Rotch, New Bedford, 2d mo 7th 1809

               
  B-163-48
                                      New Bedford 2d mo 7th 1809
     my dear Son
                 our anxiety is great respecting dear Charity's illness,
  notwithstanding at the close of thy first letter, & continued by the 2d, there was
  room to hope she would be spared to thee & us for a longer time, yet considering
  her weak state, a little unfavorable turn may close the solemn scene,
  our apprehensions cannot subside, we hope for a letter this evening to
  give a further account, which I expect to know before I close this; should
  it please Infinite Wisdom to admit her restoration, I hope the Gra=
  =titude due for so great a favour may not be wanting on our parts.
  various indeed are the visisitudes attendant on this probationary
  State, a little pleasure with a large portion of affliction, the
  loss of same, and perhaps many. thy letter of the 3d Int is just
  brought in, which demands additional thankfulness for the continuance
  of dear Charity's gaining a little, with a hope she may be favour'd to recover, I
                                       the
  think it an additional favour to have ^assistance of Dr Dr Todd to the other
  Physicians, being so noted for his skill, especially in this disorder,in which
  he had had so large a portion of practice. thy brother Wm thinks thy
  Cousin Wm Rodman died with the same disorder in Providence lately,
  this fever continuing at this season when the weather has been cold for near
  [left margin]
  my brothers are in Boston - Sister Rodman has been confined to her room & is just
  recovering fm an attack of pain & stricture on her breast. Sally's babe is very well
  & a fine child. I have not read father's letter & thou wilt excuse me if I have 
  made any repetition with much love & sympathy must bid thee & my dear sister 
  affectionately farewell.