Written by Anna to her brother Henry. Says their father told him to write in every letter that Henry should not resign from the Navy. He fears that some letters will be lost and wants to make sure Henry hears his views. The resignation has been withheld until he gets home. It appears he wanted to get involved with business with his cousin William. Both Richard and Henry's father say they are not ready and are accustomed to living as gentleman. Fears they won't be ready for the jump. Says "Cousin Wm. is talking of selling his farm and Pa is so afraid that he will let everything slip thro' his fingers. He seems to think it beneath him to make a good bargain or else people cheat him." Their father thinks William only has half of what his father left him and that he has poor judgment. On 2nd page writes from Littlestown, Pennsylvania on 7 December. Reports that their sister Eliza was sick, but that their father administered some medicine and that she is getting better. Updates him on friends and family. Tells him that their father is thinking about going to New York, but that they suspect he won't because he is "shy of engaging in business there."
Unsigned letter, but creator inferred from content. Letter is extremely faded in parts.