Hannah Rodman Fisher letter to Mary Rodman, Philadelphia 2d mo 24th 1797

              A-5-10
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My dear Mother     Philadelphia 12th mo
   The Shortness of the days, & my various engagements leaves me but little Leasure to devote in this way, but I trust a feeling evidence accompanies thy mind that love is not wanting, that thou wilt be satisfied on hearing that our beloved Martha Routh, & dear cousin Lydia Rotch have been with us about two weeks - & I esteem it time well employed when attending to the Servants, & messengers of the Great Master, & myself well rewarded if they are satisfied, & we favoured so to conduct on these occasions of exposure to the multitude, as to bring no reproach to the Cause which I love, but can do little for. 
    2d Mo 24th 1797
   The above remaining unfinishe'd thought I might as well fill the sheet at the alter period, & inform of the Receipt of Sister Mary's, sister Charity's & dear S Hazards letters last seventh day - it seems very pleasing to have the way open again by Water - the River use having been a long time confined by Ice - & part of the Winter thought extremaly Cold- it gives me concern that the approach of Spring should increase thy suffering which I have been thoughtful of, knowing it to be a trying season, shall be desirous of hearing often from thee, & Sister Hazard particularly feeling much solicitude about her.  & tender sympathy with her on account of weaning dear little Martha, but I hope she will not hesitate about it if it appears best for her own health - as it is a good season of the year & I doubt not the tryal will be made easier than she expects if the little dear will take thicken'd Milk. I have found it very nourishing, & suitable for my children if too hearty, Water may be added. I shall also be anxious to hear from dear Sister Rotch, supposing her to be near confinement hope her spirit will be supported, & she favour'd to pass the tryal with less suffering than has often been her Lot. My mind is often turned to contemplate on your various situations with desires that we may be individually cared for by the Alone Preserver of Men & enable to abide the turning of His