Thomas Rotch Letter Concerning the Canton Earthquake to Charity Rotch

              [Page 1]

[corresponds to page one of letter from Thomas Rotch to Charity Rotch, January 23, 1812]

				Canton  1mo-23-1812

			Is it not a little remarkable

My dear C that the Only Earthquakes that I have

known should be at this place- this morning I was

sitting by the fire with several Connecticut Women

when at three minutes past nine a sudden and heavy

surge was felt which seemed to make the House on the

East side crack in all its Joints,  the second was heavier

and the third the greatest roal when it very gradually

abated for about one minute and another shock followed

and in the same manner passed off by less & less vibra

=tions- as soon as I was sensible of its being what it

was I took out my watch .  its duration was

about four minutes- the motion of the House was

from East to West--Now my dear I will say

a little about my lonely situation when sometimes

I have been (as the saying is) almost ready to fly, but

in recollecting this would not do   I have endeavoured

to be patient a little longer as it would be highly

improper for me to have left my people at any time

yet I hope in the course of a Week to be able to

for a short time whe I shall wing my way to the

place where my mind has so constantly made dily

visits. by James who I sent to Stubenville. I  hand

from there by two fnds ["ds" superscript] that saw thee day befor that of

James arrival.  if there is any necessity of my come

=ing before do send for me.  I will at any time leave