[1819?] July 20 - August 6 . Jane Thompson ALS to "Sister" [Susan Wright?]; George-town.
8 pages
Box 2
Remarks on slavery, Southern culture and labor, and local botany, agriculture, fruit, and diet. Remarks on a farmer who was"obliged to purchase Slaves, as he could not depend on having hired laborers when he wanted them," with a mention of his wife's managerial work, and one enslaved man having "four wives & families belonging to him in different places." Health, including bilious fever, suckling children and children's illnesses, careful diet, and effects of heat. Recently read [Henry Bradshaw] Fearon and finds his conclusions valid, including Americans' prejudice against Englishmen and other foreigners. Compares American women and children unfavorably to their English counterparts, noting white children mingling with enslaved children. Tells of American roguery, including theft, murder, violence, and effrontery, concluding,"the higher classes are more wicked here than in England." Shocked that General [Andrew] Jackson is allowed to travel with President [James Monroe] following his execution of British subject [Alexander] Arbuthnot, and is proud that English newspapers condemn Jackson's actions. Discusses encounters with violence and cruelty against enslaved children, noting "Foreigners behave worse to their Slaves, than the Native Americans." Notes low cost of provisions and an acquaintance teaching at a"Black school." Discusses Americans' lower demands for quality goods and the market for"Braziers & tin-plate workers." Addressed to Mr. Wright, Ironmonger, in Lincolnshire, Old England, including a rare American Packet Courier handstamp featuring a red heart.