Woodstock Fauquier
County Virginia
June 8th 1813
I received my dear Aunt your last letter some time ago and should have replied long ago to this gratifying proof of your affection but having contemplated a trip to Philadelphia for some time I determined not to write but surprise you agreeably by appearing before you unexpectedly. Mama who will be the bearer of this passes thro through your City on her way to Long Branch in New Jersey where she goes for the benefit of Sea Bathing to her Daughter Ann – it was my intention to accompany her but various circumstances urge the propriety of my staying at home and I have reluctantly relinquished the trip – write me by Post immediately and inform me what Chapter of Isaiah you recommended to my perusal as I never could recollect indeed my dear Aunt these are horrible times nothing heard of but War and preparations for War. Thank Heaven, I am far removed from the scene of action but notwithstanding feel much affected at its horrors. Excuse this short letter the messenger is waiting to Alexandria and I am obliged to stop. My children are well and Ann and Matilda still remember you with affection. My Dear Brother has obtained a commission in the Army – he is now Major Lee and is at present Stationed in Washington how long he will remain there heaven only knows when he may be ordered to March to Canada – write to me my dear Aunt and excuse this Scrawl I have endeavored to write legibly but have such a Pen I fear you will be again puzzled to read this hurried epistle – Adieu
My dear Aunt,
L Carter
Source: Carbon copy of transcription of original, Lloyd P. Shippen private collection. Transcription available in vertical files, Jessie Ball DuPont Memorial Library, Stratford Hall
Transcribed by Colin Woodward, 2017 March 8
