From Ellen Hutchins to Dawson Turner   13 Nov 1813

Nov. 13

I have my dear Sir, exceeded the limit of the time your kind regard for me permitted when you requested to hear from me every week. I delayed a little hoping to be able to give a better account of myself, but as yet I have nothing very favourable to say. I am not in danger but in a state of great suffering. I have just laid a blister to my side, only just heated from a former one. I get great relief from the application of a blister but it does not last. The season is greatly against me. When I do recover this illness I hope it will please God to grant me better health than I have had for some time. The Doctor comforts me with the prospect of health next summer & of ease after some short time. My health in future must depend very much on exercise, & I am busy vowing botanical pilgrimages to every mountain rock & rivulet near Bantry. I fear you would think me mad if you saw me in the state of weakness I am in talking of botanizing, when I can barely work myself up a few steps to my room. Pray let me know how you all are, particularly Ellen & the little baby. If I was well I should wish to nurse him in the mountains & make him hardy in our pure air. Direct to me Bandon Ireland, I shall stay here some time until I am fully able to travel home. I expect to be able to give a much better account of my situation in a short time. You will not wish for a longer letter now. Believe me with affectionate regard for all in your family. Ever yours

E.H.

November 13th 1813