Notes

Nine letters between the Reid and Simpson families

written between 1816 and 1847

Contributed by Ralph Simpson

6) Richard "Duke" Simpson to his nephew, William B. Simpson (4/7/1845)

Outside envelope:     Mr. Willam B. Reid
                                Fayette County Tennessee
                                P.Office White Hall

                                                                                              Independence, Missouri, 7^th April 1845

Dear Billy,

                       I recd. your friendly & affectionate letter of the 10^th of March a few days ago, which gave me not a little pleasure to hear my old sister is still living and enjoying good health, as also your own family, with the exception of yourself.

                       I have not yet fully decided whether I will attempt to comply with your invitation to visit you and Sister this spring or not.  – I have a strong inclination to do so, but very much dread the undertaking – but I will decide in a few days. & If I come, I will leave here about the 10^th of May & if nothing happens will be with you about the 18^th or 20^th of the month. – If I come, my Daughter Henrietta Harris will come with me at least she says so now – it would give me inexpressable satisfaction to visit you & spend a few weeks with Sister & your family & I think if my health continues tolerable good I attempt it, but should I decline the undertaking I will apprise you of it & not keep you in suspense.

                       I have sold all my property, real & personal, and divided the money equally amoungst my children – except what I think may be necessary for my own support & am now living next to my Daughter above xxxed.

                      My children is at last all in the state, except my eldest son John who resides in Baltimore, Maryland. & xxx xxx 28 years past this number of children, grandchildren & great grandchildren will astonish you.  – We counted them up a short time since and then there is now living 104 or 5 & increasing astonishingly -  they are as far as I know on good health and I think doing well generally.  – My own health is as good as a man of my age ought to expect. – & my hand trembles so I can’t write any more but wish I shall see you shortly. Affectionately, your uncle.

From the John Reid Papers #3882   Southern Historical Collection, Wilson Library   University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill