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The Philander Chase letters were written in the 18th and 19th century and therefore may contain language that we understand today as harmful or offensive. You may encounter paternalist descriptions of Native Americans, racial slurs, or sexism. For more information, see our policy page.
Description
George updates his uncle on their family and the affairs of the town.
Date
12-2-1825
Keywords
Eliza Chase, Dudley Chase Jr., Mr. Eddy, Mr. Wilber, Mrs. Pember, Aunt Chase
Recommended Citation
Chase, George, "Letter to Dudley Chase" (1825). Philander Chase Letters. 546.
https://digital.kenyon.edu/chase_letters/546
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Transcript
Randolph. Dec. 2. 1825
My Dear Uncle,
Having a few leisure moments (for we have all risen before day, the moon having given so much light, that we thought it was morning) I improve the opportunity to assure you of our continued health and happiness. Yesterday, being Thanksgiving by invitation all my little family dined at your house. Everything was exceedingly comfortable – Eliza my little daughter amused them all by the spirit she displayed in defending her right to Dud’s little chair &e &e. The day was rainy and disagreeable but within [doors] all was very pleasant. Very soon after we had dined the Rev. Mr. [Clapp] unexpectedly arrived. He stated that he had seen you on Sunday evening at Woodstock.
I believe that everything goes on very well at your house and as you should wish. Horace has been to Bethel with Mr Eddy but was unsuccessful in procuring either provender or poultry except what they caught and killed sufficient for Thanksgiving use.
I have transcribed my journal and made some calculations but the result in a few particulars is different from what I has anticipated. Mr Eddy’s bill is higher and the stuff amounts to less than was supposed. The whole amount including pay for Horace and [Jeane] &e, also the expense of getting out the manure, which might be said to pay itself, &e (excepting Mr Wilber’s bill which I have not yet exactly ascertained, he having done considerable work in [shop] for house) is $3.63.43 of which by estimate $135 remains unpaid. Mr Wilber’s a/c will not by estimation exceed $70.
I can with very little inconvenience transcribe the journal and send it to you, if you desire it.
Poor old Mrs. Pember and her daughter Hannah have been prosecuted and fined for their punishment of the child, the old lady’s granddaughter. [The] fine was $7 each. The whole amount with [costs] is $24 – I did not attend and what is more surprising neither did Mr Eddy, [although] I believe every other individual in the neighbourhood was present. [Mrs] [] for [] and Mr Weston for []. I am sorry for the latter as there was a fair opportunity for him to distinguish himself which may never again occur.
I have a very long letter, or rather the subject of a very long letter in my head, which I intend to write you bye and bye. It relates solely to myself and has no concern whatever with any one else – so that I must beg your indulgence and patient perusal of the next long letter you receive from me.
I shall not close this letter but take it to Aunt Chase to have any additions she may choose to make.
If there is anything here that I can do to promote your happiness and interest, write to me and be specific in giving directions, and I shall be most happy to execute them.
I have no cow and there is no probability of my having one so that I must be dependant upon Aunt Chase for milk for Eliza. A pig can not be purchased in this vicinity--but if possible I must get one soon.
Pray write to me soon. Send me every newspaper, pamphlet or book that you can, with convenience. I have no books & should be glad of something to read in the evenings.
At your house. The family this morning are well. Aunt Chase says that she shall herself write soon, but at present she has nothing material to send except love, which is also sent by every individual of the family.
Your affect. Nephew,
Geo Chase
Hon. Dudley Chase
City of [Washington]