Urker Jan 8^th 1896

My dear Tom – Your most welcome letter giving an account of Minnie’s [1] recovery reached me yesterday; but of the telegram which you sent to London I never heard a word. Only that I have resolved never to [care?] any more, I could almost wish that whoever kept back that intelligence, might suffer as much anxiety as I suffered from the want of it. But all is well that ends well; and thanks be to God for the ending of that anxiety. Mary [2] had a letter from Minnie by the same post, and what a difference there was in the writing of it, from the one I had got from her previously. I was horrified to see it for it was evident from it that she was ill able to write [3] .

            Mary Menary [4] is gaining strength daily, and her appetite improving. She went twice to Creggan Church last Sabbath; and this evening she is gone with her Mother, Aunt Kate [5] and her daughters Kathleen [6] and Daisy [7] to a large party at Creggan Rectory. I never wished Mary to do anything that would injure her, nor had she much to do except when we had visitors. On the present occasion I brought in additional help, and intend to do so in the future.

            I heard (but not from himself) that your Tom [8] had successfully passed his examinations. I have not heard from him very lately; nor do I know his present address. I want him to come over, that I may see him in his regimentals. Like dear old Grandmother [9] , I love the sight of a red coat. We did not know the address of the [Austins?] [10] so we could not write to the other children during the Xmas holidays, but of course they – the holidays – will soon be over. And we hope to see them and their Mother and the three youngest about Easter. I believe Minnie is a good sailor, and I hope she will stand the voyage well, and be improved by it.

            Though, as you say, my expenses have been heavier than usual, I have had enough to meet all demands, & make many a heart sing with joy besides.

            All on both hills [11] are well. So am I but very infirm. Mary [12] has written to Minnie today and has probably given her more news than I am giving you, but between her letter and this you will have an idea or how we are doing. It delights me to hear good moments of “the old cow” [13] . I pray for her and all my other friends every night. It was a pleasant surprise to learn that David [14] has a prospect of getting home next year. I had but little hope of seeing him again in this life. That God Almighty may bless you every one, soul, body & estate, at home & abroad by land and by sea, prays your ever affectionate Mother,

            Eliza Jackson