Maria Grace Saffery, Holcombe, to Jane Saffery, Salisbury, Saturday, [25 October 1834].

Holcombe Saturday Morning –

         A few days ago after a holiday ramble during which I had meditated a reply to your inquiring letter, I missed the companion of my labours, the kind and confidential attendant of my absent hours, “ycleped my spectacles.” I had decided on a longer absence; so I thought I would wait a little till the return of my very faithful and industrious friend should enable me to state my intentions, in so clear a light, that you would see I had been writing with my eyes open – But apart from this jesting, which to say truth, agrees as little with the gladness as with the sadness of my heart, I have suffered great inconvenience from the loss of my glasses, which I imagine slipped from my bosom in the course of a somewhat wild and lonely walk – I have tried personal search, by retracing my footsteps; and Robert has promised reward – hitherto both in vain.

         On my way to the Brewery whence I have bought a pair of Spectacles belonging to the Old Lady, I met the post-man with the dear welcome tidings – from and of the beloved Ones – O my Jane, “The Lord is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble, and He knoweth them that trust in Him” – Since I last wrote to you the musings of my Spirit have partaken more of the character of conflict than befits one whose mind is stayed on the Lord Jehovah – where is the “perfect peace”? – This morning however my mind had found more of a resting place in His promise, and soon after, now sweetly his providence smiled upon the heart of a Mother!

         In honestly pressing are the solicitations for my longer stay in this kind shelter from the noise of worldly care; and so pleasant is it to hope, that some portion of spiritual benefit may result, that I yield, tho’ with a sigh, that reaches the home in which you dwell. The home, which your loved presence, at once sweetens and embitters. – I need not tell thee why.  Can I lighten the burden? Can I cheer or strengthen you in any of your purposes – with all your heart as far as it can be trusted to the deep, full Sympathy, of

                                             Your friend, and Mother,

                                                     Maria Grace Saffery

I am afraid to extend my letter for fear of detaining it, I hope to write again a day or two hence. The love – the tenderness – the friendship I would fain express, must be left to your own wording. Can the books subscribed for be sent hither they are greatly wanted in one or two instances and Sams letter must if you please, be granted without delay –

         Adieu ma douce Amie

Anne talked of writing her wishes, and bade me try, that I cannot must not go yet – I think there will be no time for her on this occasion so you must receive all with her dear love, from me.

I have seen Edward twice for a short time, very pleasant interviews.

Text: Timothy Whelan, gen. ed., Nonconformist Women Writers, 1720-1840 (London: Pickering & Chatto, 2011), vol. 6, p. 430 (annotated version); Saffery/Whitaker Papers, acc. 142, I.B.5.a.(10.), Angus Library. Address: Mrs Saffery | Salisbury. | Miss Jane Saffery. Postmark: Bath, 26 October 1834.