William Rotch, Sr. letter to Thomas Rotch, London 7th mo 31st 1786

               
  B-163-5
                            London 7th mo 31.1786
   my dear Son Thomas
 
                  I rec.d thy acceptable letter of the 12th m 26. last 
  though not until the 6 m 12, it being in our family packet sent 
  to Halifax & there long detained.  I am pleased at the expressive
  language of attention to the wholesome counsel of thy dear Mother
  & older Brother and Sister, this I hope will be thy conti=
  nued case, which will not doubt assist in rendering our stay here
  less disagreeable; my care for thee and thy younger branches of our 
  family is great, and must ever be so to a parent, ever anxious
  for thy weekly wellfare of his tender offspring, who I earnestly desire may
  be preserved out of the vanity, folly and wickedness of this
  delusive World. many are the Snares that the Enemy of mans
  happiness lays to catch the unwary mind; to draw it into the
  Chamber of death, be aware of him my son, and shun every de=
  lusive prospect that he may present to thy view, this conduct
  will bring inexpressible peace to thy mind; and thou will often have
  to bless that hand that hath preserved thee.-  I hope to hear from
  thee again before long; I fear we shall not be able to leave this 
  Country in less than two months; though very desirable to go
  sooner; but we are favour'd  with health which is a great blessing.
  I have not time to enlarge, only my dear love is to thee with 
  the rest of our family in which I am thy affectionate
                               Father- Wm Rotch