James Gould to George Abbot, 26 December 1841

[From James Gould in Baltimore, Maryland, to his wife Eliza's cousin George Abbot. He mentions a potential visit to Beverly the coming August, and the possibility of taking Georgiana back to Baltimore with them; describes their Christmas; mentions George (William) and how well he's been doing; and talks a little about their "old mansion" in Beverly.]

Baltimore Dec 26th 1841

Dear George,

We received your letter covering bill of lading for the Box of Fish and the boots for which accept our thanks. We have not yet heard of the arrival of the vessel, but it must soon be in now, and all in good time. We were very glad the potatoes arrived in good order and proved acceptable. We indeed reciprocate all the kind feelings that you express toward us, and hope there is much pleasure in store for us all in friendly intercourse.

I shall try very hard to see you all in the coming August, but it is a good while to look ahead to. And the inducement is much increased by the prospect of cousin Georgianas1 coming to Balto. with us then. We have received so much pleasure in a thousand ways from the visits of Elizabeth2 that we earnestly hope it may be continued by other members of your family for years to come.

Yesterday being Christmas, we dined with George3 & Lydia4 and the afternoon and Eve'g they passed with us, and Mrs. Talbot5 family & Cousin Susy were with us. At tea they were extolling the preserved Ginger that you sent to us and Eliza6 had a great deal to say about it &c. thru the day & Eve'g. You all were the frequent subject of remark, and Lizzy2 being with us last Christmas we of course had much to say about her & the party.

In this region, Christmas is kept as you keep Thanksgiving, and tho' the weather for some days previous had been cold and stormy, it cleared up and we had a fine day, and every body seemed happy. We enjoyed the presents, and with increased affection remembered the absent; may many returns of it find us all enjoying it with increased pleasure.

It is very gratifying to us to find that Mr. Hall is so well pleased with George:7 we have no doubt of his ability and pure intentions now, and we share with you in anxious hopes for the future. When we look back and remember the temptations that beset us, how we tremble lest he should yield to similar trials. I am sure I often think that I have been preserved by an overruling Providence from yielding to what has since appeared to me but a step between safety & destruction, honor & infamy, and to the good principles instilled into my mind, with the kindness of Heaven, I have been enabled to continue were many have fallen. Trust in God however, and the purity of the Boys Heart, for we know he is worthy now, and may he continue to comfort all of us.

We are pleased with all that you say about the old mansion and its appearance. You have had a good deal of trouble about it, or care rather, but we hope it has served to amuse as well as engage your time. Are glad that you have had it well done even at the increased cost. And with regard to my part, I will pay it at any time that you choose to draw for it. But if you are not in immediate want of it, our Banks will be paying specie in a few months, which will make a very

[The rest of the letter is missing.]

  1. Georgiana Abbot (1823-1848), George's daughter
  2. Elizabeth Blanchard Abbot (1821-1902), George's daughter
  3. George Francis Weld (abt 1800-1875), Lydia (Gould) Weld's husband
  4. Lydia Gould (1805-1888), James's sister
  5. Hannah Lytle (abt 1787-1857)
  6. Elizabeth Leach (1797-1859), James's wife
  7. George William Abbot (1825-1861), George's son