Michael and Sarah Faraday to Mary Barnard   29 March 1858

[Royal Institution embossed letterhead] | Albemarle St. W. | 29 March 1858

My dear Mary

We have heard of your thoughts and decision¹ - and in the strong persuasion that they are happy both at present and in their future results we long to rejoice with you. Such thoughts bring with them certain troublous excitements;- hopes never come without fears. But these are necessary during the transition of the young mind into a more mature and responsible state. May you be guided by him to whom you are about to commit yourself and far more by Him who knoweth all things, in such manner as to have cause to be thankful and also the thankful heart which acknowledges the many mercies poured upon us. Give our kindest remembrances and thoughts to Mr. Deacon and consider how earnestly we are moved upon the present occasion to express ourselves[.]

Your very affectionate uncle & Aunt | M.S. Faraday