[Letter from Elizabeth Upshur Teackle to her daughter, Elizabeth Ann Upshur Teackle, October 12, 1816]

Eyre Hall October 12, 1816

My dearest child Last evening your uncle Eyre returned from the county? without letters from you, as the mail was very late in getting in – although it's such awkward thing to answer a letter before one re ceives it – I shall write to you if only to let you know that I am well – I look always with anxiety to the mail days and hope to be cheer'd this evening with the happy tidings of your health aand happiness. You must not hope to read a long letter this time – old apology – I have not time – The truth is I waited to answer a letter I have not receive you's of this [?] and now Mr L– is going in two minutes and I must refer you to my next for [?], as well as announcement – This is only an apology for a letter; but it will serve to make you easy [?] next mail To with love to Mr G– and L and with ardent prayers for your health and happiness I am your Mother Eli Teackle

I shall send the poem by next mail. I have suffered my [?] to Father [?] of my love today and have fatigued myself writing other letters – I send you [?] [?] flowers