Urker May 27^th 1874

My dear Tom,

           

            We received your telegram this morning conveying the good news of Minnie’s [1] accouchement [2] . Thanks be to God that the worst of her trouble is over. Nothing is now needed, but care that she may make a good recovery.

 

            I know that you and she both wished for a son, but I hope you both have wisdom and grace enough to welcome and be thankful for what God in his wisdom and goodness has seen fit to send you.

 

            And indeed, daughters generally are the best; and you may see by comparing the sons and daughters of most families of your acquaintance. It is much more easy to make them “walk in wisdom’s pleasant way” than boys. May God almighty grant that your children may be blessings and comforts to you. One thing I wish to impress upon you, which is, you will require to save money for all these Misses Jacksons. Owing to the disabilities of their sex, they will not be able to make money for themselves, as boys might do; and I hope the old proverb of “booted in the cradle, and barefoot in the stubble” will never be applied to their case. Of course you will write frequently to let us know how Minnie and the babes are doing. I hope it will not be long till she will be so well that you can all come over; and at once give us the pleasure of having you here; and avoid the awful experience of living in London [3] . I do not know how you will manage about the nursing. London milk is not to be trusted and wet nurses in general are plagues of creation. They know they cannot be easily dispensed with; and so behave just as they like. Besides if they have any evil temperament; either mental or bodily; the nursling is sure to inherit it. I would much prefer bottle feeding, if good milk could be had.

 

            We have nothing new since you left, except that the decision of the Counsel consulted on behalf of the Bank of Ireland in Mary’s [4] case, has arrived and is adverse though still he had a doubt. There is one chance more. If that fails, poor Mary’s child [5] is penniless, and herself scantily provided for. But God is good, and she has good friends. To be an heiress has destroyed the happiness of many a girl; little Mary would be one, in her own line of life if she got her Father’s [6] land; and it might be her win. May God direct all for the best. Also there is some preparation made for the building of Aunt Bessie’s house [7] . These are our only items of news.

 

            With best love and blessing to Minnie and her little ones I remain

                        Your ever affectionate Mother

                                    Eliza Jackson [8] .