Elizabeth (Rotch) Rodman to Charity Rotch, New Bedford, 3 mo 10, 1802

              B-292-1 
                                   New Bedford 3rd mo 10th 1802
My beloved Sister,
                   My mind has often turn d affectionately towards thee &
my endeared Brother since our last painful seperation; nor was it easy for
me to reconcile seeing you again, in consequence of the reluctance, which
dear Sister L & myself felt, we concluded to endeavor for another interview, by
going as far as Haskel s  but some discouragements prevented much to our dis-
appointment  may now proceed to say that previous to the rec[eip]t of thy
affectionate acceptable salutation of the 25th U[ltimo] I had form d a resolution of
improving the opportunity of T Mitchells return, to convince thee that if my
pen had not convey d proofs of remembrance, my heart was not wanting in tender
feeling according to my measure, however inconsiderable when compared with
many who I greatly prefer to myself  but hope I am learning that
whether much or little can be done, if the heart is rightly disposed to comply
with intimations of duty it will be acceptable, & that nothing short of obedience
will produce those peaceful sensations, which only can support thro  the rugged
Path of Life  And indeed the day calls loudly on all faithfully to discharge
the service alloted; for unless there is an ingathering & greater concern for
the support & advancement of the precious cause, it seems to me
we shall experience a gloomy rather than a joyous day. A hope
revives at times that we are making a little improvement, & that the
favor of having a valuable member transplanted among us, whose dwelling
is evidently in the valey of humiliation, & through whom inestimable
treasure is handed to us, will be duly considered & prove a blessing. Oh
may She be preserved in the watchful dependant disposition that has
hitherto been her safety  I think all that sit under her ministry & have any
sense of feeling, must be convinc d of the injustice done her by reports in
circulation  It is very pleasant to hear of dear Silas Downing being