Letters from principally the Hall, Platt, and Greaves families in the 19th century
The letters are ordered by the sender on this page. See corresponding page ordered by recipient
James Greaves Born: 22-Oct-1788, married Mary Hilson on 23-Apr-1792, died: 27-Dec-1867, father: John Greaves, mother: Ann Lees Family Tree View all with images
Letter from James Greaves To Mrs Hannah Hall Re Death Drowning of his son Joseph in duck pond 17-Sep-1834
Dirtcar August 17th 1834 Dear Hannah, I am extremely sorry to inform you that our dear little Joseph got out at the yard door between three to four o'clock yesterday and went up towards Edwards Hague's and as we think got through a hole in the gate and fell into a duck pond and was drowned. There was two or three out seeking him when to our great surprise about 4 o'clock Edward Hague's wife was cleaning the steps of her French door when she saw his head floating on top of the water. We are very much depressed about it particularly as it has happened while his mother was from home. I cannot inform you when the funeral will take place. You will hear from us again. I am dear sister yours James Greaves
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Letter from James Greaves to Aunt Mrs John Hall 18-Oct-1844
Dirkar Mill Friday evening 18th My dear Aunt, You will excuse our leaving neglect & unconscious for Grandmother's _ when I inform you that I promise to come over to see her & bring with me the condolence of her affectionate children & grandchildren. _ from my father requesting that you would send over for anything she may need. I was at Manchester yesterday but was detained until I should not have had time to go & come back in time for the last train. I told cousin Haigh's _ write but I have not time between & the post to ask for particulars think they are all well alright also our own _ We hope that nothing serious in grandmother's illness that she will soon be well & that you will punish & put us to the blush by sparing your daily bulletins in return for our neglect. Hope the rest of our friends & relations at Irwell Mills are as well as can be expected. You will please to present my regards to them particularly to Master William, Mrs E Haigh, Miss Sarah Abigail Evans & what there is to spare you may divide between yourself & my dear Granny. I am &c Everything that's good James Greaves
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Letter from James Greaves to Cousin John Hall Irwell Mills 4-Jan-1845
Dirkar mill January 4th 1845 My dear Cousin, Mr Bowman tells me that you called at the anchorhouse on Thursday to see after my promised letter. I had given him a message to deliver to you on Tuesday which he would have done punctually if he had time. However he says that he gave you the substance of it. I had begun to write a letter the same day as that you received one from grand mother but she said that what she had said in it was enough & would not let me write. You would be surprised to know that Mary & Daniel stayed until Wednesday to have their child (John Stalkin Haigh) christened. Old Mr Hague, father & mother were the sponsors. After the christening we all had an invitation to Mr Stalkin's to an excellent dinner, tea & supper. Mary returned to Shaw on Thursday morning last. But I am in a hurry. I have not to spare between therefore my letter must be as short as possible. We shall expect you (Miss Hall & you) as grandmother said as soon as you can make it. You must fix your own time. I send word. I can say nothing more at present. Mark is gone off. I must send this after him to Oldham. I am my dear cousin James Greaves We are all well. Excuse this scrawl.
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Sarah Greaves Born: 11-Mar-1798, married Lawrence Haigh on 08-Jul-1819, died: 01-Sep-1844, father: John Greaves, mother: Ann Lees Family Tree View all with images
Letter from Sarah Haigh to sister Mrs John Hall 4-May-1840
Hill May 4th 1840 My dear sister, We received yours and hope you will be better when you write again. Mother is rather better and I keep improving in my health. Mary Ann was taken with a relapse and being sick on Saturday last it continued until Monday of course they send us word and I went on Monday night and brought her home on Tuesday morning. She is rather better but very weak. My mother has shown the writings to brother he says you must lay down your case that you have not yet had any thing off the property and that you have had poorly health for 2 years and that John has nothing but a weekly wage from his father and it is out of your to pay anything at present. He wishes you to write a letter, mother asked him where the writings were, they are at brother John's name is at the bottom but not yours. Joh does not get much better, he is very low. Please do write to us again before long with best love to you and family, respects to Mrs & Miss Hall and Mrs Evans. I remain yours affectionately Sarah Haigh
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Letter from Sarah Haigh to sister Mrs John Hall 24-Apr-1842
Hill 24th April 1842 My dear Sister, I will endeavour to answer your letter I should have wrote sooner but thought we would see Sarah Ann Greaves respecting your bonnet. We saw her yesterday, she said she would do it this next week if nothing happened if we can send it to the warehouse on Saturday next, we will if it does not rain on that day; we will drop you a line before to say when we shall send it. We are glad to hear you keep fairly well and likewise to hear of William's welfare and I sincerely hope he may enjoy good health. I do not see any improvement in Mary Ann, she does not grow much larger but I think she weakens. She suffers much through the palpitation of the heart and shortness of breathing but the Doctor does not give her up. He still says young people will stand a good deal. The Lord only knows and his will be done. She is still resigned to his will which is a great comfort to me. Cousin Margaret Evans has been to see her 'til last week. Mrs Dewar has been poorly and complains of the liver but is better. Mother has been very poorly for this last fortnight but she is a little better today. It is a pain in her back. She has had it very bad. Mary Greaves has had an inflammation in the eyes but she has been to the church today. The rest are tolerable. Hannah is better of the whooping cough - she goes to school again. I have no particular news. If we have any particular change I will write to you. Shall be glad to hear from you at any time. Mother joins with me in best love to you, John & William, with best respects to Mrs Hall and family. I remain your sister, Sarah Haigh NB Brother and sister Greaves took a ride the other day in the Gig Yorkshire Way and called upon Mr & Mrs Woodhouse. They were quite well. S.H.
Hill June 1st 1844 My dear Sister, I suppose you have had a letter from Sarah Greaves or I should have wrote sooner and she would inform you that brother and sister Greaves were gone to Woodside along with Mr & Mrs Hibbert. The last account they were pretty well since you were here I have been carried on much in the same way. I hope I am a little on the improve and that it may please the Lord I may continue to gain strength and improve in the respects which I am doing a little every day. I do not think myself quite so well as yesterday. I lay down nearly as much as when you were here. I will write you before I go to Southport. I hope I shall be able in the course of a fortnight if it be Lord's will. Mother is about as usual. Mrs Cooper is as usual. The _ are pretty well. you left a net cap and a flannel one. We will send them the first opportunity. With best love to yourself, John & William and respect to Mrs Hall & family I remain your sister Sarah Haigh
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Letter from Sarah Haigh to sister Mrs John Hall 12-Jun-1844
Southport Wednesday Evening June 12 1844 My dear sister, We received your letter before I left home. Mother thought I had better write when I got to Stockport. I left home on Monday afternoon and slept at the boar House but did not much like my lodgings and arrived here quite safe last night and love the journey better than I expected. We had pleasant company on the boat which made it better. I do not feel so well today but I am keeping myself. I am low and weak but I hope to get strength with the blessing of the Lord. The doctor orders are to stay as long as I can and to bathe every other day after I have been a few days and to be well rested. I do not know what I feel if my share but you shall hear when. I have given _ a trial. I have _ with me and she is very good. She has had a ride to London to see the King and Queen. The cause is called well and my bowels are nearly their own, my cough rather troubles me with being exposed to the vilery but hope it will be better. The cloth taras right. I am with Mr Codleigh and have comfortable there are very few visitors in at present. Brother & sister Greaves we got home before I left. I left mother and all the respects well. I hope you are well and the rest at Irwell Mills, with love to John William & yourself, I remain your affectionate Sarah Haigh P.S. Please write and direct Mrs Collett Grove street Southport
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Hannah Greaves Born: 23-Sep-1800, married John Hall on 28-Jun-1824, died: 15-Apr-1849, father: John Greaves, mother: Ann Lees Family Tree View all with images
Letter from Hannah Greaves to Parents including Hair Locks, Ilkeston 3-Jun-1819
Ilkeston June 3rd 1817 Dear Parents, My sister's letter came safe to hand and I was extremely glad to hear that you were all well. My dear brother she said was much better, she informed me of the death of Jessie Winterbottom. I was very much struck but it was a very pleasing thought that I hoped he was prepared to meet his God; we may learn from him how necessary it is to be ready when the time comes or death may call us for we know not what a day or an hour may bring forth. I am anticipating the time when I expect to see you and all my dear friends which I assure you will create unspeakable pleasure. Our vacation commences on the 20th instant but I expect Mr and Mrs Shaw will accompany us and they cannot leave conveniently before the sabbath day is over. If all be well we shall go to Derby on the Monday and be in Manchester on Tuesday the 24th. If convenient I shall be glad if you will meet me, like them. I remain Your loving Daughter H Greaves PS. My sister mentioned in her letter that my father would send me some money to come home with but I have sold the 9 remaining shawls and can take a part of that if agreeable. I sold them to Miss Daykins of Codnor. I should like to hear from home if my sister can make it convenient to write. Adieu.
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Letter from Hannah Greaves Austerlands to J Hall Redivales 12-Jan-1824
Austerlands, January 12th 1824 Mr John Hall Sir, Your kind favor of the 3rd instant I duly received but can scarcely tell how to reply as it is a subject that requires deliberate consideration. I am very much obliged to you for your kind sentiments but cannot give a decided opinion without a personal interview. Perhaps your friends might have objections in that case you are aware it would not be very pleasant. You will think me very precise but really I cannot write on this subject as it is my first attempt. You must excuse errors. I shall always respect you and all your family, let the affair end as it may but cannot give you a possible answer without further reflection. I thank you sincerely for your kind proposals. I cannot send my respects as I hope no person will see this scrawl but yourself. I remain, very respectfully, Hannah Greaves sentiments
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Letter from Hannah Greaves Austerlands to J Hall Redivales 11-Mar-1824
Austerlands March 11th 1824 Dear Sir, Yours of the 8th instant came duly to hand in which you still mention the most sincere marks of esteem. I make no doubt, allow me to be candid, but the conjugal state is the most happy in the world if the love between the parties be mutual and their study be to contribute to each other's welfare and happiness, and I certainly would not address you on this topic if I was not convinced in my own mind that this would be the case; allow me my dear Sir once more to say that it is a serious thing to trifle with a female's affections and character but I feel confidence from our family acquaintance and the opinion I have formed of yourself that I shall not see an instance of this kind in the present affair. If upon mature affection on the subject you still give me the preferance I shall esteem a visit from you an honor; if you can make it convenient to visit _ on Sunday the 21st instant I will be at home and we can have a little conversation on the affair if you think proper. I am glad to say that Mr Last paid the bill. I certainly was disappointed at not seeing you on the Saturday evening, but excuse you as I thought you perhaps expected being in Manchester or that you were late in your business. I enquired of my cousin Cooper on the Sunday. He said you were very late at Hale hill and that your father said he would call upon us in a short time. I said indeed! but thought to myself this is poor satisfaction for me seeing his son. I will conclude this scrawl as I think you will scarcely have patience to read it. I really am quite awkward when I write to you, but I hope to get the better of it if ever I shall make a third attempt. I am yours respectfully Hannah Greaves
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Letter from Hannah Greaves Austerlands to J Hall Redivales 5-Apr-1824
Austerlands 5th April 1824 My dear Sir, Agreeable to promise I now sit down to write to you but do confess I now felt so much at a loss to collect my scattered ideas as I do on the present occasion. However as we ought to meet an important question with due consideration and proper firmness. I will treat the subject with candor and sincerity. I have given your offer my most serious consideration and certainly feel much obliged to you for the preferance you have shown me. I think it advisable for your friends to have a knowledge notwithstanding you shall act as you think best on this head. It is a serious subject and one in which your happiness might be materially concerned and if you do repeat your visit it will be thoroughly known to my friends (there are no secrets in our country). I will be firm in saying that I see no objections to receive your address providing your intentions are strictly honorable and I beg leave to add I have a very different opinion of you than to suppose for a moment that you have acted in disguise. The respect I have for you will not admit of such an idea. I was at Middleton on Saturday with a friend. I own I stole many a glance towards Bury but als could not see my friend Hall. Robert and myself are removing to our new cottage and if you condescend to honor me with a visit I will send our girl to Peter Hoult's Swann Inn Greenacres Moor at any hour or time you may appoint. Robert looks as sly as a fox, he says he has found us out and I should not be surprised if he has not mentioned it to James as he said in a joke yesterday he did not expect me staying long with Robert. I smiled but made no reply. You are a favourite with Robert. He speaks very highly of you. Indeed my father has not made a remark that I have heard. From this I conclude that like me has not many objections. Excuse this remark as a joke as it is a suggestion of my own. I want your father and mother to know and yet I am afraid when I think of it. My opinion is that a person ought to act sentimentally in this case more than any other that occurs in their life. Waiting your answer with impatience, I am very sincerely and truly, Hannah Greaves
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Letter from Hannah Greaves Greenacres Moor to J Hall Redivales 10-May-1824
Greenacres Moor May 10th 1824 Ever dear Sir, You will I make no doubt be impressed to see a letter having seen me so recently but beg you will excuse me writing as I cannot make myself comfortable without addressing a line to you. My mind was really very much perplexed last night in seeing so many eyes upon us. Your wish for me to walk I know was from the strict motive of respect. As my brother was with me there could be no great demand to censure; my flattering expectations tell me that the period will some time arrive when I can spend months instead of moments with you without either scandal or remark. My dear sir should that time were to come my happiness will be exquisite but alas! We are never entirely certain of any thing in this transitory world until we attain it. Your welfare, I can assure you your happiness is very near my heart and my constant study shall be to retain your good opinion. What kind of sentiments am I writing. My heart speaks language scarcely becoming my sex but the pleasure I have in writing to you is unspeakable therefore you must not dwell with censure on the remarks of a silly girl who in every respect considers you as her confidential friend. I have much pleasure in saying that no remark was made respecting my walk with you. Sister James told me one of the ladies asked her if she knew you. She replied you was a friend of Robert's and I rather think it will settle there but however I will have a walk with you whenever you & myself think proper whether Robert is with us or not but must confess it does not look very well for me to go towards your house and return alone. Brother & sister James and Robert Cooper spent the evening with me. James was very friendly but never mentioned your name. Suppose he did not see any thing improper in me being seen with you. If you have an opportunity to send me a few lines I shall receive them with very great pleasure but I do not fully request it without it be your wish. I suppose a fortnight will be over sometime but it seems like a year to me. I wish you did live at Oldham. You must excuse this scribble as I have been called off each two or three lines and it is post time or I would have scribbled this half over. Hoping to see you at the appointed time. I am with much respect yours affectionately Hannah Greaves
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Letter from Hannah Greaves Greenacres Moor to J Hall Redivales 22-Jun-1824
Greenacres Moor June 22nd 1824 My very dear Sir, You will perhaps excuse me in addressing you as I thought it necessary to acquaint you with the particulars that have occurred since I had the pleasure of seeing you. My sister came according to promise on Monday morning. She was uncommonly kind and began to arrange matters in the first place. She wrote to my father & mother acquainting them with the affair requested. Mother to come and assist us in making arrangement for dress etc. She likewise informed brother, & sister, James and Robert. They all seem to have a desire to see us united and of course I could not say they should not. I have learned since they are ordering fine blue cloth etc and I expect we shall have a smart attire respecting gloves. I think the ladies should have white and the gentlemen buff. You will have no access to arrange gloves for our family. If we all go we are to have 2 chaises from Oldham. My sister says the chaise, boys ought to have buff gloves from the church. I should like you to write per return of post your arrangements and when I may expect to see you. Brother James says he will gladly give up the shop to us and he is sure it will answer very well indeed and will do everything that lies in his power for our welfare. Excuse me enlarging as my time is rather engaged. Hoping to see you at your earliest convenience. I am yours affectionately Hannah Greaves
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Letter from Hannah Greaves Greenacres Moor to J Hall Redivales 24-Jun-1824
Greenacres Moor June 24th 1824 My dear Hall, Your kind favor came safe to hand this morning in which yourself & sisters do me much honor in addressing me so kindly. My strictest reverence & love is directed to your kind mother for her marked attention. Your father likewise has behaved in a very kind respectful manner to me, but hope to repay them by filial love and duty. Please remember me very kindly to your sister and say my dress to church will be pale straw coloured thence trimmed with white tatter which dress further particulars respecting dress we can talk once on Sunday as I am fearful this will not come to your hands until Saturday. I beg leave to say I shall feel myself very much honored by your sister being my companion as bridesmaid whether Miss Haigh be there or not. We have this day come to some arrangement respecting the marriage from what brothers & myself have concluded you may expect if agreeable. Miss H, myself and 4 of my brothers & sisters. Brother James will get a 6 inside conveyance. (he thinks it the most advisable plan) on Saturday. It is a circumstance that will only occur once in our life and we will endeavour to make it as pleasant as we possibly can. I am impatiently expecting to see you before the great day. My sisters are as well as may be expected . I have every respect paid me by our family and they appear to give a united consent. My dear Sir, I am very anxious to see you on Sunday. My greatest concern is however I must have fortitude to see Redivals. Please mention me kindly to your father & mother and sister. I still remain unchangeably yours Hannah Greaves PS. I never saw such a scrawl before. I would write to you over again, have not time, therefore dear please excuse it. { Forget me not }
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Mary Greaves Born: 01-Mar-1821, married Daniel Hague on 25-Sep-1843, died: 13-Jul-1875 Family Tree View all with images
Letter from Mary Greaves to Aunt Mrs John Hall 13-Sep-1843
My dear Aunt, Hilton will be of age on the 22nd and I should like cousin William to come with _ I and Mr & Mrs Hall. I am sorry I cannot invite _ Jane to stay a few days at all events she can have half back for one night but I hope she will come to Hilton's party. John will excuse this arragement when I say I am going to be married on the Monday following to your Mr Hague. We are doing it very quietly. On Sunday to go from home as his house is pleasantly situated in the country and fall two miles from Oldham, but I shall not describe as I shall expect to see you and made the very first _ after we her father. I am exceedingly _ but if you can come over do meantime with my kind love, believe your ever affectionate niece Mary Greaves Kind regards My dear Aunt, My father and mother desire me to say they request the pleasure of your company to dinner at two o'clock on Monday. They are only inviting the nearest relatives therefore I hope you will not disappoint us but do come if you come only stay for one hour. I shall not leave until after dinner, Yours truly M Greaves Excuse this bit of paper as it is the only bit I have left - do come We cannot excuse you.
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Sarah Greaves Born: 19-Nov-1825, married Thomas Ireland on 27-Oct-1847, died: 19-Mar-1887 Family Tree View all with images
Letter from Sarah Greaves to Aunt Mrs John Hal 25-Jan-1844
Dirker House Jan 25th 1844 My dear Aunt, My Aunt Sarah Hague wishes me to write to inform you of the death of Mary Ann. She died this afternoon about three o'clock. I was there when she died. She never sobbed once but seemd exceedingly composed. She _ seal for Mr Nesee, he arrived just in time to pray for her before she departed, indeed she began to die whilst he was praying, she repeated the Lord's prayer with him and then fixed her eyes, and expired; from her expression before she died easy to hope & to believe she is happy. She began to be worse on Friday with the bowel complaint and had not been out of bed since. She said she was afraid of lacking time coming again. She thought she could scarce stand it, but she seemed very willing to die. My sister Mary & Daniel were there also when she died. The family are still as well as can be expected, but I think they should not grieve as it is a great blessing she is relieved. With best love from all at Oldham. Believe me to remain yours dearly S Greaves (I will write again soon)
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Letter from Sarah Greaves to Aunt Mrs John Hall 30-May-1844
My dear Aunt, My Aunt Sarah wishes me to write and to inform you that she is considerably better than she was when you left; indeed I have been to see her twice myself & I think she gains a little strength, & with good nursing I have no doubt she will recover. You will be surprised to hear that Mr Asa Lees married yesterday in Ashton to a lady who resided in that town, a Miss Mencrothy, but I will tell you more about the affair when I see you; Milton & I had gloves & laces, the envelopes were really beautifully embossed. We have had two letters from my father and mother; they are both very well, and like Seacomb very much, I hope it will do them all good. We are all very well at Dirkar hoping you are all well at Irwell Mills with kind regards, Believe me to remain my dear Aunt your affectionate S Greaves Dirkar House Thursday evening
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Daniel Greaves Born: 01-Sep-1828, married Agnes Smethurst on 24-Mar-1858, died: 17-Nov-1865, father: James Greaves, mother: Mary Hilson Family Tree View all with images
Letter from Daniel Greaves to Aunt Mrs John Hall 2-Jan-1843
February 2nd 1843 Dear Aunt, Mother desired me to forward you this biscuit as I was coming to Manchester. Father should have brought it on Tuesday but I suppose he forgot. It is from my Aunt Mary. Margaret died on the 24th January. She had a fit on the Sunday and she kept going worse. Father, Mother, Aunt Sarah and Grandmother went to the funeral last Monday. Tell William that we shall expect him over very soon, for we shall be very glad to see him. we are all fully well and hope you are the same. I might have come down myself but it is such a cold wet day. With love to all. Your affectionate nephew, Daniel Greaves
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James Hall b 1779 Born: 21-Nov-1779, married Mary Whitehead, died: 08-Dec-1859, father: James Hall, mother: Mary Mallalieu Family Tree View all with images
Letter from James Hall to nephew Joseph Platt 31-Dec-1844
Sherbrooke Dec 31st 1844 Dear nephew, My intention was to write you before this, but owing to your Uncle Will being in a dangerous state have deferred till now. His pulse has been up to a hundred & ten but is down to about normal. Your mother has been over to see him but durst not go in on account of her family Doc. James considered him much better but I should say not out of danger. You know that fevers are very stressful. Your brother James came for his horse the night after and seems to be quite anxious to become possessor of some property that would magnify all three of you, I should say a chestnut if it can be come at on fair terms his what I should prefer before any sort of property I have seen Due form since, but he tell me they are selling at over 25 years. Perchance you can give me your opinion what you should prefer. I am very glad you stood your journey so well and arrived safe & trust that you strive all that in you lays to mark good weather, and bury all mechanical calculations in the ashes, I trust you are enjoying the same blessing that I now enjoy that health and still to continue till we meet again, my son William had a stomach complaint but Doctor Tom set him all right. Remain your affectionate Uncle James Hall NB Give my respects to Sarah Ann and tell her that I am very anxious to know after seeing another part of this little island whether she still intends to take the vale.
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John Hall Born: 05-Apr-1803, married Hannah Greaves on 28-Jun-1824, died: 05-Jan-1861, father: William Hall Golcar, mother: Jane Stevenson Family Tree View all with images
Letter from John Hall Golcar to William Hall 17-Dec-1819
Golcar Hill Dec 17th 1809 Mr William Hall Dear Sir, We received the account of Mrs Hall's most dreadful and distressing accident on Thursday morning (and not before) by James Ramsden of Wellhouse at the meeting of the Mill Co when your sister Betty and Mary from Stainland happened to be here, and which gave to all very great concern and since that time Sarah Hall has been expecting a line from you daily saying as to your wife's recovery, and Woodhouse having proposed to come to Manchester but has been prevented by
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Letter from John Hall, Redivals, Bury to Hannah Greaves, Saddleworth 3-Jan-1824
Redivals nr Bury Jan 3rd 1824 Dear Hannah, Ever since I have had the opportunity of knowing you, I have been in love with you, and I have no doubt you must have perceived my passion was sincere. Indeed, Hannah, I am continually thinking about you, and I find it impossible to express how dearly I love you. I have often designed to do so, but was always afraid to open my mind when an opportunity presented itself. However, I have now done so, and I hope you will not be cruel to me, as I am sure I could never live to see you in the arms of another. You are intimately acquainted with my circumstances and disposition. To this I can only add that my happiness or misery through life depends altogether on the reply you make to this offer. I shall employ no compliments, neither shall I insult your good sense by idle promises; but should you accept me as your protector through life, all my anxiety will be to promote your happiness, and at the same time to retain possession of your heart for which I shall be amply prepared in seeing that you are gratified with my conduct. On the contrary, should you reject my offer, I shall never again enjoy true peace of mind; yet I trust, even in this case, that you will be happy with the man whom you may bless with your hand, and that you will honour with your friendship: Oh! that you may resolve to grant me that happiness for life. Expecting your answer, I am, dear Hannah, Your truly affectionate lover, John Hall
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Letter from John Hall, Redivals, Bury to Hannah Greaves, Austerlands, Saddleworth 8-Mar-1824
Redivals March 8th 1824 Dear Hannah, In consequence of writing to you is that you would be surprised at me not calling at your house when I returned from Dobcross as it was my intention to do so but father was afraid of being in the dark as it was nearly five oclock when we left Dobcross but I learn that my father will be your way this week. Dear Hannah I return you my most grateful thanks for your tender avowal of mutual love: with life only shall its remembrance cease, but actions not words must testify my gratitude. The love I possess for you is grounded on the sure basis of admiration for your worth, consequently it will survive your beauty blooming with equal vigour in age as it does in youth. I have now my Dear Hannah to solicit your permission to wait upon you when I trust I shall be enabled to enter into every necessary explanation and to make such arrangements as may prove agreeable. Expecting to hear from you by return of post. I am my beloved Hannah, Your faithful and affectionate lover John Hall
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Letter from John Hall, Redivals to Hannah Greaves, Greenacres Moor 7-Apr-1824
Redivals April 7th 1824 My Dear Hannah, Yours of the 5th instant duly came to hand and my warmest acknowledgments are due in when for your kind letter I am but too happy that is remains in my power to give you perfect satisfaction. Indeed Hannah, I hope there is no obstacle remains to prevent our union. Believe me my beloved maid, that my happiness is now so exquisite that it would be in vain to attempt its expression by words. No, my heart is too full to be enslaved by the shackles they would impose. It must therefore remain with me to prove my conduct through life, the sense which I entertain of it, dear Hannah. I have not let my parents know anything about the subject but in a short time, I will inform them of it by some way or other, and on Sunday the 11th instant you may expect me over at Mr Hoults Swan Inn from 11 to 12 oclock and may you never my beloved regret the confidence you thus repose in me, nor repent the hour which allowed your affectionate lover to avow himself the most happy of his sex in being your husband. I am my beloved Yours, every yours, John Hall
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Letter from John Hall, Redivals to Hannah Greaves, Greenacres Moor 17-May-1824
Redivals May 17th 1824 My Dear Hannah, Your charming letter has removed a weighty load from my heart and I may now calculate upon the speedy enjoyment of every possible happiness. Be assured I am truly sensible of my great obligation to you, and that I shall never forget them, but endeavour by every method in my power to repay some part of them. After your affectionate invitation, you must not expect that i shall delay my promise you may therefore expect me on Sunday 23rd instant, when I shall have the happiness of passing a few hours with you, but hope to pass months and years with you instead of hours before long, and we will my dear arrange things for our mutual happiness when I come over. I am dear Hannah Yours, every yours, John Hall FORGET ME NOT I CANNOT FORGET YOU
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Letter from John Hall Mary Ann Hall, Redivals to Hannah Greaves, Greenacres Moor 22-Jun-1824
Redivals June 22nd 1824 Ever Dear Hannah, Everything therefore determined, I shall come over on Sunday next and on Monday shall seal our eternal union, yes my angel then will our mutual happiness be decided. My mother has informed my father about it, and she said that he had no objections of you coming to his house, and said it would be the best not to have many only what was sufficient, and I think you may invite your brothers, Robert, James, Mrs James and Miss Haigh if you think proper as I think it is useless having so many as we can invite all our friends in a short time after, and you must give my best respects to sister Haigh and to excuse us not inviting her as we could not think of doing so without inviting all, but I will leave it to you, and I think the best way for you to come to Prestwich is the way we thought of and me and my sisters to meet you there but however I shall come over according to promise then we can arrange things as we think proper, we shall be very busy this week or I would have come over before Sunday, you must be sure to write by return of post and inform me which way you think is best. My sister Mary will write a few lines to you on the other side. I am dear Hannah, Yours, ever yours, John Hall * My dear intended sister, I wish to know whether you intend being dressed in white or coloured. I can dress for either; My brother and sister with myself intend meeting you at Prestwich Church on Monday the 28th instant. If Miss Haigh be not at home, I shall be glad to have the honour of being your maid. Mother, sister, and John wish ever love to you and believe me yours affectionately, Mary Ann Hall
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Letter from John Hall, Irwell Mills to Richard Evans Ludlow 24-Jul-1832
Irwell Mills July 24th 1832 Mr Richard Evans, Dear Sir, You will be rather surprised to hear that we have removed to Irwell Mills to the house adjoining father's. When you come to Manchester soon and convenience will not be wanting we had let the shop and father proposed it. I think we shall be very comfortable. The house is large and we are to ourselved. We left Withy Grove this day week. I assure you it was a very agreeable exit. Should be glad to receive a few lines from you. Our family are quite well and join in kind remembrance to you and all friends. I am sir, Yours most respectfully, J Hall
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Mary Anne Hall Born: 02-May-1805, married Joseph Woodhouse, died: 01-Nov-1892, father: William Hall Golcar, mother: Jane Stevenson Family Tree View all with images
Letter from Aunt Woodhouse to William Hall 22 Dec-1879
Spoutfield Terrace Golcar, Dec 22 1879 My dear William, I hope this may find you better, all right again. We have it very cold here, I cannot go out. Will try to send a boy, tomorrow or Tuesday all being well with a few other things & more than I named of my own. I do not know what other people, may have as I do not get out much, but will make enquiries. A vase for flowers I have had it the last 50 years, looks just as well now as then. I have 3 of them, the other two are small with scuffs at the top, they are sufficient for me at the present, as I have a fine piece in the centre, also an ink stand china, but I am sorry to say as happened an accident, but pretty to look at. A few coin, some old stamps, pair of glass bellows. I have had them for 60 years, also a wool _ & others my own work, always busy doing something. I was preserving them for Bazaraz to be held in Golcar at Easter next. I also send a for of hand screen, my own drawing & painting on white wood I hope you may get them all right without accident. I can have the box returned by London & North Western if sent by Lancashire & Yorkshire it home, to go a great round even to Leeds, then return. With my best wishes to all, and you may enjoy the present season, love from your affectionate aunt, Mrs Woodhouse Time passed. I have directed the box as your letter is and have not paid the carriage, as I could not go myself. I have not locked the box, put a wrap & cord around it.
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Letter from Aunt Woodhouse to William Hall Payment Receipts for hospital practice and lectures at medical school 29 Dec-1879
Spoutfield Cottage Golcar, Dec 29th 1879 My dear William, I do not know what to say to you about the price or value. I think you or your kind good wife would know best, only this I know the proces I put on those for the bazaar the wool auction costs 25/- 2 cotton ones 5/- each, stamp case 1/- the hanscreens 15/. The flower vases, I had £3.3 offered for them, some time ago, but declined parting with them, at that time. I sent you the largest one. I cannot value the others. You will please do so as you think well, or prize them, as they are more value to you than anyone else. Will you say 5 or 6 for all or return those you do not care for. The large cup, I know is not valuable only for name and age. The glass bellows I know had the handle off, but thought you could repair it but please do as you think proper according to your usual sensibility, hoping to hear from you soon, with much love to all, this cold season from your affectionate Aunt, Mrs Woodhouse Spoutfield Terrace Golcar, Dec 31st 1879 My dears, I acknowledge the receipt of £2 half £10 note with thanks. I enclose another case for stamps a different pattern it may ne useful. With love to all from your, affectionate aunt, Mrs Woodhouse To Mr & Mrs Hall The Crescent Salford.
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William Hall Payment Receipts for hospital practice and lectures at medical school 29 Dec-1879
Mem: Paid £7.7 as medical pupil, at the Manchester Royal Infirmary & Dispensary, for twelve months, also to attend the clinical lectures. 22 April 1844 Nov 21 1842 Mr Hall Paid £31.10 Pupil & dresser for 3 years Mr W Wilson Dec 30th 1840 Received the sum of five guineas being Mr Hall's fee for attendance at the practice of this Institution. Bround Hurst House apothecary Salford Royal Dispensary Received from Mr William Hall forty guineas being the amount due for his fee as perpetual pupil to the Pine St. School. R T Hurst Treasurer Oct 24th 1842
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William Hall Memo Articles received from Aunt Woodhouse to William Hall 30 Dec-1879
Memo: of sundry articles received from my Aunt Woodhouse, of Spoutfield Terrace, Golcar, near Huddersfield, 24 Dec 1879. -A two quart posset pot, blue & white, with the names of Joshua & Mary Hall 1781 on the side, & the names on the bottom, but without the date. -Painted china flower vase, half round in shape, with loose cover, with holes for flowers. -Old Indian china ink stand, sent broken, but more broken in carriage. -Pair of hand screens of white wood, with handles, painted by herself. China sugar basin, white & black. A small pair of glass bellows. A piece of very ancient needlework on silk. Two sets of model money, in white metal, & copper. Sundry old coins, 13 in number. A wool autimaccasar, honour work. A knitted cotton, do do. A small white cotton mat, do. An ivory tablet, carved, subject "Judgment of Solomon". A horn finger ring, & a horn leg. A bunch of shaking grass, & a bag of old used penny stamps. (Mem 1879 Deed. I have sent my Aunt Woodhouse £5, also £5 as present from Louisa and myself.)
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William Hall Born: 24-Mar-1825, married Louisa Platt on 19-Jun-1862, died: 18-Mar-1887, father: John Hall, mother: Hannah Greaves Family Tree View all with images
Letter from William Hall to Mother 19-Nov-1846
London 10 Molesworth square New Weston Street Bermondsey Dear Mother, From the above you will be led to conclude I did arrive here safely. It was 1/4 past 5 when the train got to Euston station. I made enquiries about lodgings, but could meet with no suitable, all too dear 2/- & 2/6 a night, so I went to a coffee house, got some coffee & about 8 set out to Bermondsey to where I am staying, about 4 miles from the station, so I left my luggage when I got out of the carriage & after I had been here & had to go back again to fetch it & clean myself up where I got dinner, mutton chop & a pint of entire & regular blow out & tomatoes hungary. Did not sleep at all during the passage, ate only the sandwich & afterwards one of the buns & have two left. I am staying here very cheap, it is where Winterbottom, Fletcher & Gibbons put up. There are I think two other medical students here also. One I have seen, a very nice fellow attending at Guys. I have been to the College & saw Will Bountfloors name down for exams tomorrow. If you write direct for me at No 10 as above. It is a very fine day over head but London is the dirtiest place I ever was in in my life over shoe top; I cannot find my way very well where I have to go. I walk to the Thames & have a Thames boat ride of about 2 or 3 miles for a penny - have been about 12 miles today already. It is a most wonderful place & what I have seen now would take me a week to relate everything different to what we see in paltry Manchester - only ten times as much dirt. Excuse me saying more at present with having no sleep I am rather nervous & not very steady after such a noise with the engine but no headache. Believe me yours affectionately w Hall 19 Nov 1846 3pm
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Letter from William Hall to Mother 20-Nov-1846
Dear Mother, I have much pleasure to inform you I passed the College about 10 minutes ago. I shall write again soon (tomorrow) when you will have more particulars. I remain yours aff. W. Hall 20 Nov 1846
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Letter from William Hall to Mother 21-Nov-1846
10 Molesworth Square New Weston Street Bermondsey London Dear Mother, I have written the address out again in full for fear you could not make out the one I sent before. During my stay the above will be my residence. I think at present of staying until Friday or Saturday, the 27th or 28th though I may possibly remain a little longer. I wrote you from the College last night stating I had the good fortune to pass & not without _ (no egotism). Will Brasflower went up and passed also. There were nine candidates, four of whom were put back, three for a week & to have written examinations, and one for six months, so long! There were two up also for written examinations who had been up on the Friday previous & put back. My examiners were first _ Cooper, Lawrence the President of the College next, then Professor Green & lastly Robert Lister. The exam was a very easy one or at any rate I happened to know it. It was about 10 when we were set at liberty, Ridwood was waiting outside so we went to a singing room where we were joined by Will Brasflower & a friend of Harveys who also passed & some other students. I left them about 11 & walked to my lodgings a distance of about 2 or 3 miles & was in bed by 1/4 past 12. I have just got up 1/4 to 8 & am going to write to about 1/2 dozen friends & by that time I expect Brasflower will call of me & take me through St Bartholomews Hospital. I had dinner yesterday with Midwood. It looks as if it would be a fine day, at least I hope so, for you have no idea of dirt in Manchester. It is just like dirt fair altogether. I should like you to write. I want to know how grandmother's finger is. I hope it is better, & the rest of you, how are you? You must wait until I return for any description of the place, such a many large fine buildings & above all the bridges, they are splendid. How is Aunt Sarah's chance at the Infirmary? I can only say I hope she may pass the same success as myself. The greatest nuisance to me is so many persons crying different kinds of things in the streets, they begin about 6 & continue until I don't know when & disturb the slumber of your affectionate W Hall M.R.C.S Saturday morning 21 Nov 1846
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Letter from William Hall to John Stead 4-Sep-1859
Copy 9 Crescent Parade Salford 4 Sep 1859 Mr Stead, Dear Sir, I have found the deed respecting Ramsden Mill, mentioned in yours of the 31st Ultimate and beg to say I will forward it if there is an explicit understanding that it will be returned to me within a specified time as agreed upon. Yours truly, William Hall To Mr John Stead Stables Street Huddersfield
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William Hall To John Platt MP Memorandum for deposit of deeds for securing 1800 pounds 11-Aug-1865
Dated 11th August 1865 Mr William Hall to John Platt Esq M.P. Memorandum of Deposit of Deeds referring to messuage land and hereditaments situated in the Crescent, Salford for securing £1800 and interest. Memorandum of Agreement made the eleventh day of August one thousand eight hundred and sixty five between William Hall of Salford in the county of Lancaster Surgeon of the one part and John Platt of Oldham in the said county of Lancaster M.P. of the other part whereas the said William Hall hath requested the said John Platt lend him the sum of one thousand eight hundred pounds which he hath agreed to do on having the sum secured in manner hereinafter mentioned now these present witness that in consideration of the sum of One thousand eight hundred pounds the said John Platt to the said William Hall and paid on the execution hereof. He the said William Hall doth hereby for himself his heirs executors and administrators agree with the said John Platt his executors administrators and assigns that the said William Hall at his own expense whenever thereunto requested by the said John Platt his executors administrators and assigns execute and deliver to him or them a
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William Hall to John Platt MP Memorandum and Schedule for £1800 loan
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Henry Platt Hall Born: 09-Apr-1863, married Margaret Alison Reid on 25-Feb-1892, died: 15-Dec-1949, father: William Hall, mother: Louisa Platt Family Tree View all with images
Letter from H P Hall to Papa 2-Apr
Lord Street 2nd April My dear Papa, I have been in and out most of the day and do not feel tired. Mama has bought such a pretty doll for Edward's little girl, it is a nurse with a baby in her arms and she has such a funny cap on. With love to Joey, Alfie and yourself, I am Your loving son, Henry Hall
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Letter from H P Hall to Papa 20-Jul-Early
20 July My dear Papa, I hope you are better. We went to the Swallow waterfalls. Cousin Sarah has given us a writing desk, book and trumpet. Please look at the _. We went from Conway to Fria few in the steamer and enjoyed it very much. With love Your loving son, Henry Hall
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Letter from H P Hall to Papa 7 Oct-1870-Early
7 of October 1870 My Dear Papa, I hope you are well, we have found a hedgehog and have found some starfish and have caterpillars and have shot such away up in air and in the sea. We have not had donkeys. It is such fun. We have not sailed my ship. The pier was nearly covered, the tide was so high. We have found a few shells but we have not seen many crabs. I have seen Mrs Binless's little girl. I remain your affectionate son, Henry Platt Hall
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Letter from Henry P Hall to Papa 21-May-1877
Welch Row 21st May 1877 Dear Papa, I received your letter this morning, and was very sorry to hear about the broken windows. I am glad to say that I had nothing to do with it. When I arrived at Crewe yesterday I found the train I should have gone by did not stop at Nantwich so I had to wait about an hour & a half for the next. Mrs Cawley & Rosa went to Hankelow yesterday morning & came back soon after I arrived. There bringing with them an invitation for Rosa & I to go to Hankelow next Friday. Tell Mamma that Mrs Cawley will write tomorrow and sends her love to her. With love, I am your affectionate son Henry Platt Hall
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Letter from Henry P Hall to Mama, Charing Cross Hotel 26-May-1877
Welch Row Saturday 26 May 1877 Dear Mamma, Rosa & I went to Hankelow on Thursdau and enjoyed ourselves very much. We went by train in the morning and Mr and Mrs Cawley drove over in the carriage and brought us home in the evening. There was a gala here last Wednesday and we went and I had six bowls at some cocoa nuts and won three, one of which was bad. I am coming home on Monday by the 12.25 train arriving at London Road at 1.40 With love I am your affectionate son Henry P Hall
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Letter from H P Hall to Papa at Hotel in Paris 1-Jun-1878
Aldred Place 1st June 1878 My dear Papa, I received your letter this afternoon and was very glad to hear you were very well and comfortable at your new hotel. Joey and I went to the Manchester Reference Library this morning and copied several coins, we went to the Peel Park library tonight and Joey copied the Duincusis with a bull on the obverse, it was formerly in the Pembroke collection and was recently sold by auction for £22-10-0. It is an oblong in shape measuring 6 1/2 inches long by 3 3/8 wide, it weighs 4 lbs 9ozs. I copied out a description of the Queen Anne farthings. The price you were asked for the Greek Drachmas the other day was exceedingly cheap. I wrote to Jo Verity at Eallseaton the other day for some on approval which he sent me; they varied from 1/6 to 3/6, those at 1/6 were very small and in poor condition. I saw Batty on Thursday and asked him about Greek silver coins, he said that they were very scarce and had greatly increased in value lately. Aunt Mily has received a letter from Aunt Polly tonight, she has not been able to get rooms at Cousin Lucy's Lodgings but has taken rooms for both of us at the last house in the promenade near the Convalescent Hospital. I went home yesterday afternoon and saw Baby. She is very well and was pleased to see me. Arthur Roby is much better. The dark brown rabbit had its turn out yesterday and Joey's cat out of its cage to it and paid very dearly for it, for mine got hold of it by the throat and almost worried it. Jennings saw it and with the greatest difficulty separated them, but not before it had lost a good deal of hair &c. Uncle Crosby has gone to Buxton for the weekend today. Aunt Yilny sent Alfie his letter today. He is a good deal better. With love &c I am Your affectionate son, Henry Platt Hall
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Letter from Henry P Hall to Papa 20-May-1879
17 The Crescent 20/5/1879 My dear Papa, As I have not much work tonight, I have taken the opportunity of writing to you. Joey has not been well today and has not been at school. He seems better tonight. Alfie has entered the 100 yards race under 12 at the athletic sports which will come off soon after the holidays. He did not know whether he might enter or not so he wrote to you and as he could not get an answer in time, for they were coming round the next afternoon, so he asked me if I thought you would let him join, and I thought you would so he has entered and I should think he stands a fair chance of winning. Roby is in the sports committee and has to attend its meetings nearly every day. It was proposed the other day that the races should be started by a pistol this year instead of the usual way of dropping a handkerchief, and it is rather a difficult problem to answer whether Hill will fire it or not as he is the starter and has been for several times and there is nobody else to do it. (I should have said he is a very particular person). So altogether we are rather anxious to hear what will be the result. The examination in Inorganic Chemistry was held at the school last Friday night 100 being the largest number of marks possible to obtain. I got about 85 and as 66 is the number of marks required for a first class, I have got one certain which is more than I expected. I have still two more for Organic and Practical Organic Chemistry coming off on Friday and Saturday nights respectively. Joey had a slight dose of the stick from Darval yesterday. I hope Mamma is much better and will come home quite well. I am your affectionate son H P Hall
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Letter from H P Hall to Mama 22-5-1879
17 The Crescent 22/5/1879 My dear Mamma, I was very sorry to hear that Papa has been troubled with tooth ache, but hope he will be better. I have been at home with it this afternoon, it came on at dinner in the one Papa drilled a hole in and was so bad that I went to Rodgers who took out the cotton wool and made it all right. I should have gone back to school then but he had kept me so long, rather over an hour that it was altogether too late to go, as I could not have got admitted, so I came home. We have had a very heavy shower of rain this evening and I've expected thunder as it was so close, but as yet we have had none. We break up tomorrow at half past twelve in the morning, and I have an examination at night and on Saturday night. All is going on well at home, and we shall be very glad to see you on Saturday. I am Your affectionate son, H P Hall
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Joseph Platt Hall Born: 08-Sep-1864, died: 10-Jun-1934, father: William Hall, mother: Louisa Platt Family Tree View all with images
Letter from Joseph P Hall to Mama 9-Jan-1877
January 9th 1877 215 Laud Street Dear Mamma, Aunt Polly wants me to stay until John goes to London. Tell Miss Townend that I have not had time to write to her. I should have written to you before, only I forgot. Tell Henry to save sparrow for my _ I did not catch a seagull today. I was fishing from the pier and I had a bite which broke my hook Amen. I am yours truly, J. Hall
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Letter from Joseph P Hall to Mama 12-Jan-1877
12 January 215 Lord Street Dear Mama, I hear that Henry has burnt his face and Henry wrote a letter to Aunt Polly and said that he has burnt his face with something. She did not say what of course. I intended to write last night but it was bed time so it had to be written this morning. John is going to London on Monday. What train am I to come home by. Ask Alfie if Alister Reid's rabbit has had young ones yet. What was Alister in the sulks about that day. I am Yours truly, J. P. Hall
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Letter from Joseph P Hall to Mama 28-May-1877
May 28th 1877 Dear Mama, We arrived at school as usual. I have made six pence for Arthur Roby in stamps. Alister as usual is as nasty as he can be in school but in the playground and after school he is alright. Alfie had 50 lines today for making a blot in his copy book. I knew my lessons very well but I only learnt them as I went to school. We were not in time for school this morning. Mr Wilks asked me about the catapult affair. He said that he was very glad that I had not got into much jaw about it. Eight of the boys have gone to the Oxford Examination with Mr Wilks and we have some fun in the afternoons. They will be at the examination all this week and some days in the next week. There were only 30 boys today. There were only nine boys to dinner today. I am your affectionate son Joseph Platt Hall
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Letter from Joseph P Hall to Mama 30-May-1877
30 May 1877 Dear Mama, I received your & Papa's postcard this morning. As a matter of course I have got into a row about my Latin. This is the sixth time and I have made up my mind that I will not learn Latin any longer. Will you write by return of post to say whether I am to learn it any longer or not, but if you will not let me give over learning it I shall not stay better any longer. Alfie's arm is very very sore he says and it has swollen considerably. Before dinner today we were playing cricket in the field and two cows were walking near the wicket. I was in at the time and I hit the ball against one of the cows hides so hard that it nearly knocked it down. Alister and eleven more went to the exams this afternoon. I am your affectionate son Joseph Platt Hall
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Letter from Joseph P Hall to Papa 21-Jan-1878
27 January 215 Lord Street Dear Papa, I met Mama at the station today and went to the lodgings with her and then we went to the end of the pier. I tried to fish but it was so rough to catch anything, there are a great quantity of fish to be caught off the pier head, it was very wet only this morning but about 11 o'clock it was fine. I shall be glad to get home to you and the others. Mama is going for a sail with Beani Reid tonight. I am yours truly Joseph Platt Hall
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Letter from Joseph P Hall to Mama 7-Jun-1880
17 The Crescent Salford June 7th 1880 Dear Mama, We went to Reid's to dinner yesterday. I mean Alfie & I but Henry had promised to go to Aunt Libie's so he went. Alfie & I went to Aunt Libie's to supper instead. Henry has gone to Reids to tea tonight and Alfie has gone to Stowell to prepare for the sports which are on Friday next. All is going on well here of course. Alfie says he is going to have his photograph taken tomorrow for 2/6 in the proper size. Baby went to tea at Aunt Libie's on Sunday. I forgot to say before. I hope you and Papa are enjoying yourselves. At Reids we have 3 young green linets which we took the other day and we put the cage with them in outside & the old birds feed them. If you have not got me a knife you must please yourself what you get me. When are you coming home? I am in a great hurry so you must excuse the letter being written as it is. I remain Your affectionate son Joseph Platt Hall
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Letter from Joseph Platt Hall to mother from Gulf of Aden 1899
R.M.S Peninsular Gulf of Aden February 5th 1899 Sunday Dear Mama, My last letter was posted at Suez & the one before that from Port Said. I hope you received them in due course. I have very little to say except that I keep well & have had very little headache and that only very slight. I think I am sleeping better although I still wake up very often. I think I do not lay awake so long, on the whole I am better than I have been for some time & think I am making satisfactory progress. As there is so little to report I may as well take each day in detail. Thursday 2nd (left Suez about 9.30 last night). Wind slight & with us. Temperature, cabin 64 in shade, on deck 74 at 10am & bright during day. Small dance on deck after dinner but a failure as there are only 6 or 8 girls who dance & they are very little good. Run 219 miles Lat 26-49-0 Long 34-31-0. Friday 3rd. Fine calm day, wind still with us. Temperatures 9am in cabin 70 F do on deck in shade 78 F 5pm in cabin 70 F, 11pm deck 72 F. Run 340 Lat 21-54-0, Long 37-34-0 Saturday 4th Feb. Wind went round to the south in night & has increased in strength since. Cabin 9am 78, deck sahde 79 F. in shade on deck down day 84 F Cabin 79 11.30pm Charades & dance after dinner Sports in afternoon. Run 330 Lat 17-7-0 Long 40-33-0 Sunday 5th Passed out of Red Sea about 11-30 am had good view of Perin Island and Arabian coast. Wind strong from south. Saw a sandstorm on the Arabian coast, the sand made a cloud which I estimate was at least 300ft high. Now that we are out in the Arabian Gulf the wind is slightly less, we have had no heavy sea since the night before we reached Marseilles. We had a death on board between Gibraltar and Marseilles of a stoker. I don't know the cause but he was buried quietly while we were at dinner & nobody found out anything about it until afterwards. Since we left Suez we have had parkers going at meals but as the highest temp we have had has only been about 85 it seems to me to be a great fuss about nothing. I have felt no inconvenience at all from the heat, simply because there has not been any. Hoping you are all keeping well and taking proper care of yourselves. Your affectionate son, J.P. Hall You will next hear of us from Bombay and then we shall have to be guided by the plague as to whether we go near Calcutta or not. You had better send copies of all letters to the P.O. agent at Aden to be called for as by changing our arrangements we may miss all letters sent to India or Ceylon. If any alteration of arrangements is necessary I will wire you.
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Alfred Greaves Hall Born: 28-Aug-1867, died: 11-Dec-1941, father: William Hall, mother: Louisa Platt Family Tree View all with images
Letter from Alfred G Hall to Papa 28-May-1876
Salford May 28th 1876 My dear Papa, I shall be very glad to see you home tomorrow and hope you have enjoyed yourself. I suppose you will have been to Westminster Abbey today which I hope to see some time. We all went to church this morning, and Mr Stowell preached such a long sermon, I thought we should not get home in time for dinner. I went to Mr Reid's to tea yesterday, and had some good fun. With love, I am, Your affectionate son, Alfred Greaves Hall
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Letter from Alfred G Hall to Mama 11-Feb-1878
February 11th 1878 Dear Mamma, Mr Wilks asked me when Joey was coming back to school because he said he was going to call on you some day this week, tell Joey that it is James Massey that has come to school, tell Henry I have sold about one shilling worth of stamps for him and I think I shall sell some more, excuse this short and badly written. I remain Your affectionate son, A G Hall
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Hannah Louisa Geaves Hall Born: 29-Nov-1875, married James Duncuft on 24-Jul-1895, father: William Hall, mother: Louisa Platt Family Tree View all with images
Letter from Hannah L Hall to Mama 7-Jun-1880
17 The Crescent Salford 1 June 1880 My darling Mama, I was so glad to have a letter from you. Aunty brought me such a lovely doll and Alfie came to play with me, Miss Glasmere We had so we for me called dolly Louisa after my dear darling Mama. Henry is too busy to write, go he to Mrs Reeves to tea. Alfie is going to move to Wales. I am going to have my porridge & good night my dear Papa and Mama, I am Your loving child Hannah Louise Hall
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Henry Platt Born: 20-Mar-1793, married Sarah Whitehead on 20-Mar-1815, died: 11-Nov-1842, father: John Platt, mother: Alice Winterbottom Family Tree View all with images
Letter From Henry Platt to Parents 16-Dec-1806
Dobcross Dec 16th 1806 Dear Parents, The approaching termination of the present year gives me a pleasing opportunity of making my grateful acknowledgements for your affectionate love and concern in promoting my welfare. While you have been kindly encouraging me to apply my time in the acquirement of various and useful learning, I trust I have not been negligent in using the days which your goodness has assured and indeed owe the paths that lead to knowledge and understanding, and by my improvement in such valuable qualifications, I hope to be a comfort to you, happy within myself, and well received by society. I am, with the greatest respect, Dear Parents, Your dutiful son, Henry Platt
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Letter from Henry Platt to Children 2 Joseph Platt 14-Sep-1842
Dear Children, We are glad to inform you that we got safe to Blackpool last night which I think we shall like the place!!! Yours respectfully H Platt Blackpool Sept 14th 1842 Direct to the post office then no time to write further
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Letter from Henry Platt to Children Joseph Platt 14-Sep-1842
Dear Children, It is with great pleasure to inform you that we are all very well. The weather has been very fine. I think I shall find a benefit reading. I feel rather uneasy finding from your letter that you had been eagerly about more land but I hope that you will never think at it may make for it would only bring more traceable, let us have all the news you have respecting how you are faring and I infer you will have yourself accept this and have not had a letter for him yet from him must take time of the _ your affectionate father & mother Henry Platt Blackpool Sept 17 1842
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Joseph Platt Born: 20-Feb-1816, died: 16-Mar-1845, father: Henry Platt, mother: Sarah Whitehead Family Tree View all with images
Letter from Joseph Platt To Brother John 25-Jun-1840
White Bear Inn Manchester June 25th 1840 My Dear Brother, I have received your letter of the 21st instant since I came to Manchester and from Mr Yorton to you dated June 20th. I am sorry I cannot herewith send you all the letters of introductions. I have seen Dr Jersey & Co and my friend Mr Greicrisk informed me that he had been taken unwell and has not attended long to business. however he has promised to send them up on Friday next to be sent off by the mail of the Monday following and I wish you to be particular in giving me proper instructions where to send them to. I have enclosed two letters from Mr Radcliffe and he wishes me to state that you had better tell the parties in Paris what trade you follow as he thinks it might be something in your way, the parties are cotton spinners and you must not leave Paris if possible without seeing them. Mr Seth Leigh promises to have sent letters here but has not yet arrived, however I will send them along with others on Friday or Saturday next, in the meantime don't forget to write home. There is nothing of any moment since you left, we are all quite well. I remain dear Brother Yours truly, Joseph Platt
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Letter from Joseph Platt to parents Sep-1842
Bowden, Sept 20 1842 Dear Parents, We have received your letter this morning and were glad to hear that you are doing well and sincerely hope that your may better derive benefit. Mr Bradstreet has persuaded me to go to Malta in preference to any other climate and perhaps accordingly with respect to the land I have in open for you to settle and must say that Mr Schofield will be good to treat with his offers every face but think if am ever to clear with him we could do better still. Sister Sarah will everything as far as the family affairs, as I am off to Oldham and has no time to write a long letter. Yours affectionately Joseph Platt
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John Platt Born: 15-Sep-1817, married Alice Radcliffe on 09-Mar-1842, died: 18-May-1872, father: Henry Platt, mother: Sarah Whitehead Family Tree View all with images
Letter from John Platt to Brother Joseph Platt 18-Jan-1845
Hartford Iron Works Greenacres Moor near Manchester January 18th 1845 My dear brother, I can hardly sufficiently thank both you and Sarah Ann for your kind atlas - for you must be since that envy making North with intense interest to what may have to communicate. I can't fully enter into - am approaching unknown to fine ...
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Letter from Jack Platt to brother Joseph 11-Mar 1845
Hartford Iron Works Greenacres Moor near Manchester March 11th 1845 My dear brother, I was rather startled this morning on receipt of sister's letter, for I had hoped you were gradually improving & that spring would soon cause you to rally - but I confess I had no idea you were so much reduced; let us hope that God, who can cast down and raise up at pleasure when earthly hopes are low will now dissipate our fears and once more grant you comparative health. I had intended coming to Brighton about a week before Whit suntide, but shall make it convenient at any time you may think proper. I am sorry you should put yourself about respecting garden or anything else. I shall take the whole expense for next month to myself, that you may not have slightest anxiety in that respect - nothing is being done that can be left undone, and that you would see if you were here. I think perhaps George will do better, since this morning I told him distinctly what I thought, and he is shaping better at finishing, as I have told what shall be done and what not, and that I must have it done with less mess. He is rather stupid and nothing but plain talk will do but as he settled here on purpose and takes great interest in the place it makes me rather lenient. I beg you will not write yourself, as I am sure it will excite you, and you are very well aware of what importance it is to be free from agitation. I saw Sarah Ann's letter to Donksley, but he talks like _ of spring reviving you which I may pray God it may. I had the Rev W Davies with me all night at Werneth last week, when I engaged him to propose one as a member of Hope Chapel at the next meeting. He discussed matters over till after 12 o'clock. I have quite made up my mind and feel relieved at what I have done, and I humbly hope it may stamp my character for ever. There is a vast deal to contend with in this world, and it is not always I am in the hopeful humour - yet I always look to the future, when things look dark, and forget or try to forget the present - at such times - for what slight and brittle threads hang our destiny, and yet nothing will satisfy me, but onward, onward, may it be in grace and wisdom also. I hope that such inspiring promises of the word of God are your consolation and strength, whatever happens he is our friend and will be when this chequered scene is over - yours affectionately Jack Platt
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Letter from John Platt to Mother 5-Jul-1845
Hartford Iron Works Greenacres Moor near Manchester February 5th 1845 My dear mother, We received Sarah Ann's letter - of this matter _ sorry to hear that Joe has had another slight attack but hope he will be over the worse for its _. Mrs Radcliffe of Manchester and she told and she has just seen the children at school - and that they were very happy and comfortable, she also says they were going to take tea with her - on Saturday next - This means I thought might be interesting to you. - I _ the what James _ and therefore scarcely can tell what to say. - The liver gives shap is late and easy to hear. I am not like the ' sell of night' The weather here has been dreadful for some time and no doubt to some extent it may be whether James but the place _ not be so can. _ but the weather will too delightful, and that Joe will reap the benefits accordingly. Our children are very well. I am happy to say and Henry is always talking of his Uncle Joe. He tells everybody that uncle is getting better; I hope Sarah Ann will be better. You be careful and not over anxious; you must of course be writing so often - as Thomas _ for anything. I have been thinking it would be much better if you could get a little assistance as it must be very tiresome, so much attention, as well as detrimental to your health. Alice with _ of sympathy to you and beg you will remember us kindly to him and although we don't write perhaps .. with kind love to yourself and Sarah Anne. from, your affectionate son John Platt P.S. Mrs Hibbert called yesterday and desires to be remembered to all of you.
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James Platt Born: 11-Dec-1823, married Lucy Mary Schofield on 12-Apr-1847, died: 27-Aug-1857, father: Henry Platt, mother: Sarah Whitehead Family Tree View all with images
Letter from James Platt to brother Joseph Platt 9-Feb-1842
Hartford House February 9th 1842 My dear Brother, Agreeably to the wish expressed in your last letter received here on the 7th, I shall draw a scale on the next pages, of the premises at Werneth. I have been there twice since receipts and consulted with Mr Schofield first time, and second, I had with me the gardener you saw when here, (sent by Mr S.) and we finally agreed what was to be done. I shall preface the sketch by a few remarks. It is now close on middle of July and nothing done on the front of the house nor filled up. We are thinking not to do this, till you receive this, the reason is partially this, the steps from the front door are not as low (by a course of brick) as back course, now as the rise from the road will be sudden, the earth will slant from the house, so that if it were filed up to the bottom of steps, part of base course would be covered, now if there was another step, it would at once set all right, and there would be much less filling up than at present, give your idea for another step in your answer, if you agree with me. Another reason for not filling up at present, is that we do not know the exact position of the new carriage road; but on other side, I shall draw some where near what is my own and Mr Schofield's opinion as to where it should be, and until we receive an answer this will be left alone, but Mr S. has promised to set it out himself at any time. I have not curved the road in the sketch as much as it should be, but you see the principle. If you recall, your thought is ought to go between trees No 2 and 3 but Mr S strongly objects to this; he wishes to keep the road close to the bottom stone wall, than I have put it. Say whatever we are to do in your reply, and as you have the plan below drawn to a scale you can say what alterations must be done, and draw to your own liking. We intend doing immediately the following, viz filling up with the soil we have on hand, back of _ formed behind the pond, and setting a few for the trees earth along the new brick wall for about 2ft distance, towards that Plum, peach, apricots , nectarines & c may be planted immediately, is any to lie low in the kitchen garden? in fact you must say, what must be done in both gardens. We are wishing to know when you think of coming home and if you leave Malta (which mother and sist do not like) you let us know as soon as possible. We are getting on very well in the works, as far as to say plenty of something to do, and the alterations are proceeding very rapidly, the foundry will be finished in 5 weeks, I should imagine. Your views differ from those adopted here, as Boiler house, is to be at end of factory, and they will take our kitchen (back) in a few weeks, the nearside for doing something is apparently , as the boiler back or at least not in pieces again, a week or two since and with all the power that is required they cannot last very long. With respect to the Continental business, John says he knows no more than you do, or at least very little, by making yourself known, you will accomplish all you desire. I should imagine that you (not having a list of prices) would not take orders, but merely make our firm known, and get to know the different spinning establishments, but you will use your own discretion, but we have orders for nearly 6 months and every part is stretched to its full extent; you will know what to do. so far, there has been the mildest weather I have seen known, yet I expect some severe weather. Mr Collins was here a week or since, and he says you might have stayed at home, for he has been very well all along. Mr Starker was here also last Tuesday, though I did not see him, he looks very well, and all are very eager to know how you are getting on. Not withstanding the weather has been so _ ( for we have hardly had 3 nights continued frost and very little snow, no skating whatever). I do not think it has been very healthy weather, being too damp, on account of so much rain. My mother again desires me to press upon you to stay at Malta till you return home, as you have good friends, and a good medical man, and if you remove, you will have new acquaintances to seek, and after all perhaps not find as good as you have. My mother desires you to give her best respects to Mr Buckley and also your friends. Mr Drinkley thinks you may return in April. We shall not forget your birthday on the 20th. We intend getting finished flagging, plastering and if you say what is to be the kind of glass, it will be no worse as Mr Butterworth seems not to know what you decided on. Mr Schofield has displayed great skill in the laying out of his garden, ponds, and if he was permitted would do the same with our new road, (it needs not to be paved tile you come). My mother and Sarah Anne and children all desire their best love, and it is our earnest prayer that you may be restored to us in health and strength. Yours, James Platt
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Letter From James Platt to Mother Bro Sis From Paris 26-Sep-1844
Rue Neuve de Petit Champs Paris 26th Sept 1844 Dear mother, brother & sisters, I called on the Marks with my letter of introduction from Mr Mather on Tuesday morning, and hitherto, must say he has paid me a deal of attention, and found me the present lodgings, at an English professor's, which with being 6 stories above ground, and his being an Englishman, are about the only objections. I have a good large room, well furnished - a balcony at front 15 or 20 yards long. The family use French and are very attentive, and including two lessons a day and dejeuner - it is only 40 francs per week. They asked 37 1/2 francs but I afterwards called on Mr Coulier (who also has not been afraid of his trouble) and went to see some lodgings, but they were 42 francs per week and I should have had to pay a professor, which would have made it very dear, besides the lodgings were scarcely as good - so that I am in a fair way of being very comfortable. When I called on Mr Crodier, he wished me to go with him to M Delafoutaine as the mills were at a complete stand. Next morning we went and saw Delafoutaine who appears to be rather an intelligent spinner for a Frenchman. He too would do anything for me in his power. I believed him. I found the mules with nearly all the motions on the floor - a good fortnight's work for one of our own mechanics. I stayed 3 or 4 hours with 2 mechanics at my elbow all the time and left them sufficient to go on with after I was gone. This I have repeated 3 times - all is now together except bands - or nearly so - for our mule. He talked hard about a spinner on Tuesday, but seems to have slipped his memory since. We can have one mule at work next week, but should never have begun, had I thought the French mechanics so bad. I almost think I shall persuade him to send for an English mechanic - Mr Bradly - the carriages, roller bearers are nothing like truth, and I shall not square them up, for it is already interfering with my French - though it does me good being bored with Delafoutaine and 2 French mechanics who cannot speak English. I have seen little or nothing of Paris, nor entered a public building except the circus - I have been so busy. You must write me soon, for I can assure you, there are many inconveniences being alone and if I were not busy in one place or another it would be worse. How are the new works progressing, there is sufficient to write about. What I have seen of Paris has been often told, so shall spare you for the present. The caps of the Normandy women amused me much, I will give you one. It looks 2 centuries old. I am very well and hope your letter will bring the same news. From Yours affectionately, James Platt
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Letter from James Platt To Joseph Platt 21-Sep-1844 From Dieppe
Dieppe Sept 21st 1844 My dear Brothers and Sisters, I am now safely arrived in France; you will see I altered the plan of my route, as I felt anxious to see Brighton, where are 2 of the Royal children, and many of the nobility. Mr Hughes King of Franks came over in the same vessel that I did, we had a very pleasant passage indeed, and arrived at Dieppe at 4 o'clock this morning. I slept in my hammock from a little after 10 to 3. Mr H was sick, but I felt not the slightest attack. We leave Dieppe for Rouen at 11 o'clock and shall arrive in Paris at 11 at night. I am going to stroll about the town and get a bath. So far I do not feel at all at a loss with my French, but shall tell better in a few days. I am very well though I feel the want of sleep but shall be all right - after being a night at Meuriers. Hope all will go on well. Shall write again tomorrow from Paris (if all well). Believe me, Your affectionate brother James Platt Hotel de l'Europe
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Letter from John and James Platt To Joseph Platt, Torquay 29-Dec-1844
Hartford Iron Works Greenacres Moor near Manchester Dec 29th 1844 Dear Brother and Sister, Both your letters came duly to hand this morning, and I can communicate the contents of facts _, who some to think _ the _ improper, for you, to leave Torquay so early not knowing how yet to ascertain what the evidence of the place is, but he still thinks that if your cough does not improve in the course of a month or more, it might then become a question as to your going to Mater_ or what you think is advisable. I will come over towards the end of this month - when we have finished taking stock - for a day or two - and have some conversation with you. above, tell Sarah Ann that Alice will answer her mother - we are all very well and things are going on satisfactory as far as we are concerned; sure we are very often thinking what to do with you but hope for the best. My mother & all the family desire to be remembered and with a description of the best way of getting at you as _ in the night. Your affectionate brother John Platt My dear Bro., From what doctor says, you have no cause to lower your spirits in the manner you seem to be doing, as you will know it is half the battle, we are each compelled to wage at some day. Mother says keep up your spirits and don't fret yourself so. Believe me Your affectionate brother James Platt
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Letter from James Platt To Sarah Anne 4-May-1846
Hartford New Iron Works Railway Station, Oldham May 4th 1846 My dear Sarah Ann, Owing to a breakdown at S. Hilton's mill, I am afraid, I cannot leave at all this week. The steam engine is regularly smashed, and it will take 3 weeks night & day to get it to work again. How is the weather with you? It is terribly hot here, and this afternoon even had thunder & lightning & tremendous heavy rain - some of the roofs in Bolton moor are much injured. It is all over now again and almost as sultry as ever. Louisa is rather better of her boils, but she suffers much yet. I never saw such a back. I hope Alice has got her riding skirt, and that you are good customers to the donkey lads. Old Rigby the sailor, will call on Friday morning - as I met him in the village before leaving and promised if I returned to hire his boat. You must take a row someday and encourage him. I had a long chat with Mr Samuel and did not forget to remember you and Alice to him but more of this when I see you - now inquisitive you must wait a little for any other news. Yours affectionately, James Platt `
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Letter From James Platt to Sarah Anne From Hartford Iron Works 19-Jun-1846
Hartford New Iron Works Railway Station, Oldham June 19th 1846 My dear Sarah Ann, There is an old adage, which says "out of sight, out of mind" which you must excuse me applying in your case, since we have not heard from you, I can scarcely tell the time, but I suppose you are so busy, riding and bathing for that and have scarcely a thought to bestow on us, at Werneth; however when I have the honour of seeing you again, I intend giving you a proper lecture, and in the meantime, let me ask, how you are going on. The weather here is still excessively hot of which makes one fit for nothing in the middle of the day. How will it be in Moscow as I suppose I must go in about a fortnight or so. Mother and Polly went to fetch Elizabeth home yesterday, she is looking very well. I think her much improved. She has made me a present of ___ which shows that some sisters have proper feelings, and don't forget home all at once. Mother says Polly has ways of her own, and that S. A. will get into favour in fact she has been praising you, and giving it Polly according to custom. You will be very sorry to hear that Sarah Radcliffe was in such a poor way and I have just sent over, but he does not feel much better. Remember me kindly to Alice and believe me, your affectionately, James Platt I had intended coming over, but am so busy, that I cannot tell how to manage it at present. How is little Mary?
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Letter from James Platt, Berlin to Sarah Anne, Hartford House 14-Jul-1846
Haig von Portugal Berlin, July 14th 1846 My dear Sarah Anne, It is now a week since I left home and I have seen so much already, that I am afraid almost to attempt to give you any particulars by letter, as I could fill several sheets, but I will give you a general outline of my travels; promising that I am in excellent health and spirits - and trusting that mother is all right again, and with the children at Southport. Of course I felt a little the final leaving as it was too bad of you seeming so anxious. I found passport & berth all right at Hull, and had a delightful sail down the Humber. I slept till morning, but then felt very sick, owing to the very awkward movement of the steamer, first my head jerking on my pillow, next my feet jamming against the vessel side, and on my right and left almost at same moment. The captain said afterwards it was a very nasty sea, owing he thought, to some storms in the north. I was in my hammock all day, of course impossible to do much in the eating line, but I was all right on Thursday morning after having passed Belgialand, and came on deck again as fresh as could be and about as happy. Gurhaven at the mouth of the Elbe is situated behind a wall and embankment, and is very low in fact the country on the Hanover side is all the same, and you see nothing but roofs of houses and tops of trees, (same as was told in Holland), it is much the same on the Holstein bank for about 20 miles, the land is very rich and well cultivated, and immense numbers of cattle fattening, but the last 6 or 7 miles before you get to Hanover the Holstein bank is considerably higher and covered with trees, forming the most beautiful situation for country seats that can possible be imagined rendering the sail quite delightful and giving you not a bad idea of the importance of these Hamburg merchants and legislators. We had no trouble with our luggage and I had a letter from Mr Garden which promised one a most friendly reception at Dimmings hotel. Mr D offered his services to Stan at Hamburg - he is another Marks) - next day we drove to his country seat and after dinner went to Booth's garden and were shown among the company with an Austrian Duke, who was making purchases - Hamburg is a much finer place than I expected - some of the new streets are above fair, they are splendid, the shops especially and the great square is a very fine place indeed. The buildings are more magnificent than any saw in Paris. what were the ramparts are now the boulevards, and altogether the sea banks are very pretty - each village around has some peculiarity in costume, and I have bought a few prints to give you an idea of this - as the peasants are rather a grotesque appearance in the stocks - Of course there are no new palaces, or residences of _ , and perhaps this is the secret why so little is said in Musse about it. The Hamborgians are much more personified than I expected, and I am told, that although they suffered under duress and other generals, set on all of their superior tact and politeness of the common soldier, they have a greater liking even yet to them than any other. They manage to dispose of business before dinner and attempt a protestant town, they spend their Sunday afternoons in dancing and promenading. I left for Hanover on Saturday, travelling all night where I spent the Sunday, but there is nothing, to see but the palaces and gardens and these are a very moderate tale, quite a commuter town in a manner and I left next morning at 5 o'clock and arrived same evening at Berlin about 6. After getting dinner I called on Mr Wilfred Fenton at the Hotel de Russia and have spent the whole of today together visiting the looms. He was good enough to introduce me to Mr Edicott, a person of considerable influence here, and a past friend of Lord Westmorland, our ambassador here. Mr E invited us to dine with him tomorrow at 4 o'clock which we accepted. I must write you more about Berlin just before leaving for station. I expect Mr Homme visits tomorrow - he had engaged apartments for me, on my arrival, next to his. I found Wilfred Euston a very nice companion, just his brother over again. I shall write you and Edlea every Friday night. Give my love to all, and do not forget to write me at Getersburg, yours affectionately James Platt
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Letter from James Platt to Louisa 19-Dec-1854 from Regent Hotel Leamington
The Regent Hotel Leamington Dec 19th 1854 My dear Louisa, You can tell my mother that I am gradually improving, though still comparatively weak. Today I have had a drive as far as Warwick Castle. The weather being very clear and brilliant, but cold and frosty. Yesterday was very fine also, so that I have nothing to complain of, and am able to walk about or run every day. I hope therefore that I shall not have any more attacks. What have you new in Oldham? Is there anything stirring? as I want or course, to know how things go on. I hope my horse will be a little better conducted now trip I reason is irksome. It is very strange, no one could let me know more, but I suppose no one liked to meddle with other peoples business. I have nothing at all in the way of news here, and can only assume from that I am taking every possible ease of myself, and as my appetite has returned, markedly I may be all right again given what might be expected. Remember me to all at home, and believe me, Respectfully yours, James Platt P.S. The above is from your affectionate brother, never mind the weighty form which slipped in by mistake. J.P. The money for W Davies will do when I come home.
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Letter From James Platt to Louisa Platt - 1854
The Priory Cheltenham, Dec 31st 1854 My dear Louisa, We left Leamington yesterday, and intend staying here with Mr Byrn, for about a week, and hope on my return, you will find me looking decidedly better, as I have improved wonderfully the last ten days. I hope with the blessing of God, I may continue to do so, till I am perfectly restored. My appetite is good, and you can tell my mother I am taking every care of myself. Of course I am not very strong or able to walk very far, but compared with what I was a week or two back, I am not like the same man; so , I have great reason to be thankful. Our lives are in the hands of our makers, and whatever he wills, we must humbly endeavour to submit to, in a proper spirit, as he knows, better than we do, what is best for us. With experience to the 10 guineas, you had better get it from Mr Palmer, as I shall not be at home, and if I were I could not venture to take part in any ceremony, connected with the presentation. My love to all, and so and give Elitt a dozen kisses from me. Your affectionate brother James Platt
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Sarah Anne Platt Born: 21-Nov-1825, married Thomas Ogden on 16-Aug-1840, died: 19-Sep-1851, father: Henry Platt, mother: Sarah Whitehead Family Tree View all with images
Letter from Sarah Anne Platt to Brother James Platt
West Hill Cottage Ventnor March My dear James, We received your comforting letter this morning. I did not think Joe would have been spared to see another of your letters, but I am thankful he has last night, he was rather worse again and for a time given signs spitting of blood came on and he was almost choked. I was sad indeed to see him gasp for breath. Mr Dosnell stayed all night and we were obliged to him for Dr Nighton as well all thought he was going, This morning it came on again and it is doubtful whether he would rally or not, he is quite composed, sleeping whilst he was better he expressed a great desire to come home but I fear it is quite impossible, he is so ill that he may go any minute. John we are building of seeing this afternoon which I do hope we may not be disappointed for it will be quite as much as Joe can stand another attack after they use, he is quite faint with gasping for breath . . . . .. I remain your affectionate sister Sarah Anne Platt
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Letter from Sarah Anne Platt to Little Sister
St Bonniface Hotel Ventnor Isle of Wight February 28th My dear little sister, We have long been expecting to hear from you, but I think you have forgotten us altogether, James often writes always tells us when he has seen you, but you have never sent a single message to any of us, perhaps Mrs Green will be kind enough to let you write as soon as possible, so that you can tell us all the news you have got; we heard of you going to take tea with Mrs Radcliffe, when you see her again, tell her I should like to know where she lodges when she was on the Isle of Wight, give my kind love to her. I suppose before this you have found out Mr James Willoughby & remember me to her and tell her I was sorry we could not call upon her before we left. Joe I am glad to say keeps a little better. I expect we shall be at home in six or eight weeks, that will be before you, but we shall call to see you as soon as possible. So we are very anxious to see how much you are improved. I expect you will be quite clever, but I must so end. Accept of our kind love, I remain my dear little sister your affectionate sister Sarah Anne Platt
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Letter from Sarah Anne Platt to Parents Henry Platt
Dear Parents, I am glad to hear that you are both well and I hope if my mother's entreaties will not entice you to eat that walking on the sea shore will. We are all very well and Joe looks remarkable. Mr & Mrs Jeaves went on Saturday and a famous _ up Mr Harris came in the morning about half past 11 and worked himself a mutton chop, and what with blowing the fire it was quite laughable. Joe went this morning to Oldham and is preparing for Malta. Mary Alice does not like the thought of being left. The children are in high spirits about going on Friday, the time is up but I suppose we shall stop a few days longer. On Sunday it will be the flower show and Sunday Bowdon Wakes. Yesterday there came a great many people but were disappointed for they were a week before the time. Caroline and the children went to take leave of the Old Kassman who is much better. I am endeavouring to _ the children out as neatly and little expense as possible. Louisa is very good and indeed both of them give very little trouble for they are so delighted with going to Oldham and being smart. I have packed some few things for Mary Alice and a great many of our winter things. I am sorry to tell you that Mr Jessop is leaving either the first or second week in October. Time will permit no longer as it is washing day. With best love to you both. I am my dear parents your affectionate daughter S A Platt
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Letter from Sarah Anne Platt to sister Louisa at Southport - Crossed Writing
My dear sister, I fully intended to have written to you long are that and are quite ashamed of myself for not doing so but I have been so much engaged that you really must excuse me. I have heard that it is very warm in Southport if it is just the same. ...
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Letter from Sarah Anne Platt to Brother James Platt Barcelona 12-Jun-1847
Hartford New Iron Works Railway Station Oldham Saturday evening June 12th 1847 My dear James, I received your letter on Thursday morning and was much surprised at your not having got two of my last letters and Eliza heard today the same. They were addressed according to your directions, perhaps you will get them all together. We have not very much news in Oldham at present with the exception of many complaints about bad trade. His son has failed his _. I believe __ I must know whether you can hear anything about England or not but I will begin with sad news first and end perhaps better. Last Saturday evening the mail train from London came in contact with a heavy luggage train and seven gentlemen were killed all owing to the carelessness of one of the guards who turned the train in a sliding direction so that it went with full force into waggons on the main line that ... Your very affectionate sister, Sarah Anne Platt
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Letter from Sarah Platt to Miss Platt Clapham 26-Mar-1850
My dear Louisa, You must excuse me being so long in not writing for your kind note to me on my birthday but I am so much engaged that all my friends are _ that I do not go more it is hard to please every body but I wish to write you as often as possible. John is much better _ ... I shall fully expect to have the pleasure of her company in February at the _ with _ to you .. Yours affectionately Sarah Ann Platt
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Henry Platt Oldfield School Born: 29-Mar-1830, died: 1841, father: Henry Platt, mother: Sarah Whitehead Family Tree View all with images
Letter from Henry Platt Oldfield School to Parents Hartford House 27-Oct-1840
Oldfield School 27 Oct 1840 My dear Parents, Mr Race was so kind as to allow me to go and see my sister on Pater day when she told me that it was your wish that I should write a letter to you. I am happy to say that I enjoy very good health. We had the pleasure of seeing the Fox Hounds on Wednesday the twenty first as they came past the school. Christmas is fast approaching and I begin to think of the time when I shall come to visit you. I hope that I shall continue in good health and that I shall have the pleasure of finding you well. Please do give my best love to my brothers and tell them that I think that I am beginning to make some improvement in my learning. Mr Henry has asked me if I will learn Latin, but I do not know what to do as I am not acquainted with your intention respecting my learning that branch of education. Mr Race and Miss Races desire their kind regards to you all. In dearest love believe me to remain, My dear Parents Your affectionate son, Henry Platt
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Colonel Henry Platt Born: 26-Dec-1842, married Eleanor Sykes on 22-Jan-1868, died: 13-Oct-1914, father: John Platt, mother: Alice Radcliffe Family Tree View all with images
Letter from Henry Platt To Aunt Louisa from Gorddinog 3-Dec-1903
Gorddinog Llanfairfechan N. Wales Dec 3rd 1903 My Dear Aunt, I cannot let another year of life pass & still another come into existence without dropping you a line to let you know that my thoughts gravitate towards my old friends & associations. Every year we seem to lose someone we love, which arises dear recollections & connections with the past. I hope you may be long spared. Nellie asks one to convey to you together with sincere best wishes for a Happy New Year to you & yours. I am sorry to hear of Alison's accident. It is near the end for treatment. With love Your affectionate nephew Henry Platt
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Letter from Henry Platt Gorddinog to Aunt Louisa Dec-24
Gorddinog Llanfairfechan N. Wales Dec 24th My Dear Aunt, How can I thank you for such a handsome & historical present. It arrived today safe and sound. I appreciate things that belonged to my family more than anything & I will take care they are handed on. Nellie, the children & myself all join in wishing you & your family a Merry Xmas and Happy New Year. With love, Your affectionate nephew, Henry Platt
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Joseph Arthur Platt Born: 29-Jan-1852, married Jessie Thorneycroft on 15-Aug-1876, died: 27-Apr-1907, father: John Platt, mother: Alice Radcliffe Family Tree View all with images
Letter from Joseph Arthur Platt, Tettenhall to Alfred Greaves Hall re death of mother
Feb 29th Tettenhall Towers Wolverhampton My dear Alfred, I am so very sorry to hear of your mother's death, poor dear, how she loved you all, and us too, you will feel it very hard. I am sure you have all my sympathy. I cannot come to the funeral as I have been a fortnight in bed with bronchitis and only just up for an hour today. I would certainly have come and seen the last of her if I could have. Give my love to you all Your affectionate cousin Joe A Platt
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James Edward Platt Born: 12-Dec-1856, died: 20-Sep-1928, father: John Platt, mother: Alice Radcliffe Family Tree View all with images
Letter from James Edward Platt to Aunt re Condolence 19-Mar-1887
Bruntwood March 19th 1887 Dear Aunt, Many thanks for your card conveying the sad news. Poor man he has gone at last & perhaps it is the best it should be so under the long painful circumstances & feel very sorry for Aunt. She has had a long time of trouble & now the end has come I hope her nerves will not give way, although they will be sorely tried. She should therefore bear up as well as possible otherwise a reaction might retain, after the long trial her strength has had to bear. She should in my opinion get away for a month's quiet rest as soon as possible for a complete change of scene. I am sure she would derive the greatest benefit from it. I would have run over today to see her, but then I thought I could no nothing. I might only be in the way. I have written her a short letter of condolence. I told her I will look in early on Monday about 10.30 to see if I can do anything for her. Be sure you make her bear up & face bravely the terrible affliction God has sent to her. Believe me your affectionate nephew, James E Platt
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Miss Eliza Derby View all with images
Letter from Miss Eliza Derby to Hannah Greaves Austerlands 10-Sep-1827
Derby Sep 10th 1827 My dear Miss Greaves, Having an opportunity of sending to Manchester I thought I would just write a few lines to one with whom I have spent many an happy hour and though it is very unlikely that we will ever see each other again, yet we may desire pleasure in our correspondence, I suppose nothing will excite mote pleasure than your _ of Sherston, I was there about three weeks ago to see them as Mr Shaw said when he called (on his return from Manchester) that I was very much altered and he wished I would come and spend a month with them as he thought the country air might be of use. I went and stayed nearly a fortnight and found most of our friends were well excepting poor Mrs Mason who I am afraid is in a very dangerous state. The complaint is an inflammation on the lungs and is very ahead. I am afraid she will never perfectly recover from it; you will be sorry to hear that Mary Taylor was gone from Mr Shaws very poorly but before I came back I called upon her, and they expected she would come in a few days, I rather expect Mary Harrison next Thursday to spend a week or two at Derby. I found Maria well and as lively as ever but Mrs Harrison I thought look rather ill but perhaps she may be in the family way. I went to see Miss Abbott and unfortunately she was at Derby and called same afternoon as ever happy to se me but she came to Ilkeston to tea with Mrs Thomas Harrison, and I had therefore the pleasure of seeing her. She was to come and spend a week with her and cruelly I had so many engagements that I could not call again, but she wrote to me very frequently. When I was there I could not but see she was ageing, there was a for Miss Knighton, the oldest in the school. They have but five and ten young gentlemen, I believe, so that you will be sure there. I was quite surprised to hear that Miss Bunby had not given your _ the _ which I stayed she would and what could be her _ for keeping is I cannot imagine for it was nothing _ as to endure her to do so but I have really quite forgotten what it was, it is so long since I _ I thank you for your kind remembrance of me. I shall keep ...
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Rich Davies Greenacre Moor View all with images
Letter from Rich Davies Greenacre Moor to Joseph Platt Hotel Isle Of Wight 22-Feb-1845
Greenacres Moor 22nd February 1845 My Dear Sir, I should have written to you long ago, but was fearful that any communication, such as I should send, might produce an excitement, which in your weak state, would prove inconvenient. My gratification in receiving your note is so great, that I shall fail to express it & remember your susceptibility of excitement, and fear to raise it, but it should be prudent to your recovery. Yet I should like to convey to you of my joy. You ask, will I propose you a member of my church?' Yes sir, and with the delight which can be felt by none, but a Christian Minister, many of whose prayers are in this case. I shall hardly require, your long afflictions have afforded you ample time for consideration, and I feel satisfied that this is no lack of resolve. You know the self denying course, which gives dignity to a Christian profession, and your uniform determination to do well, whatever you undertake, assures me that you will be a christian in earnest. You say, it is perhaps applying at the 'eleventh hour' - it may be so - but if it is - we will pray that the time may go back upon the dial, and that your eleventh hour, may be prolonged to a distant day. I want to say more, but I fear you will not be able to bear it. Accept my hearty congratulations upon your hoped for prospect of heaven, daily has it been prayed for and still it shall be implored. My kindest regards to your devoted mother, and excellent sister. God bless you and grant you the largest desire of your heart, is the constant fervent prayer of my dear sir, Your humble faithful pastor, Richard M Davies
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John Lister Hightown View all with images
Letter from John Lister Hightown to Hannah Greaves Nov-30th
Site House Hightown Nov 30th My Dear Hannah, I feel myself deeply possessed of love towards you, and I hope & trust that providence has or will breed something of the sort in you, for I must confess that providence has begun my love towards you for there is neither night nor day escaped without my meditation on your charming countenance since the first time of my being in your company and most particularly since our going together to White Chapel to hear Mr Wanter for the text he had was Choose this Day whom you will serve and I applied it in a temporal sort of way and fixed my love more firmly on you and I hope it will remain till my life's end. My Dear Hannah I should like you to give me a few lines to say how you are in health and whether you will accept of me for your love or not, if you do not write I shall consider you do accept of me, and I shall be coming over some time this Christmas. I am if accepted Your true lover John Lister
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Maria Harrison View all with images
Letter from Maria Harrison to Hannah Greaves 19-Sep-1818
Nottingham Sept 19th My dear Greaves, I write this letter on purpose to give you a good scolding
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Mary Holmes View all with images
Letter from Mary Holmes to Hannah Greaves 7-Jul-1819
Dear Miss Greaves, I am much obliged for your kindness in writing to me and take the opportunity of answering by Mrs Galland. I thank you for your kind thoughts . I dare say you have heard that I have got a little girl whose name is Martha. She is about three months old and my health whom on the whole is better than when I was at Miss Shaws. I live in Ilkeston, my mother likewise who along with me sends our respects to you and all the young ladies. I had the loss of losing my father about a year ago which was a great trial. Mrs Barton late Miss Mills has got a little girl about three weeks younger than mine. Lucy is along with her sister who resides at Worcester. I cannot give you much information respecting the young ladies you mention. I have not seen Miss Heath since she left school nor heard of her. Miss Young, I have not seen as long a time. She is now quite well when I heard last. Miss Elcion Taylor has been at school this last half, at Derby I believe. She goes there till Xmas. The family are all pretty well. The colouring you mention is abrameter which is got at the Dry- by sister - it is not very expensive, a little of which is put in as and rubbed in about half a pinch with warm water in a bason and placed in the churn when you put in cream you may make the colour as you like increasing or decreasing the amount. I was sorry to hear of trade being in so depressed a state, it is bad at Ilkeston. I must now come begging my kind love to your sister and yourself. From yours affectionately, Mary Holmes Ilkeston July 7th 1819
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Ann Lees Born: 24-Oct-1815, father: John Lees, mother: Mary Greaves Family Tree View all with images
Letter from Ann Lees to Aunt Mrs John Hall 26-Feb-1844
Bottom of Mog February 26th 1844 Dear Aunt, As I promised you that I would let you know when my sister Sarah had a child, she was safely delivered of a son on Thursday morning the 20th and they are both doing well at present. Her father in law was taken ill on Wednesday and died on Friday which I am afraid will keep her back from doing so well as I could wish. Sister Mary little boy is lying very ill not likely to recover. Aunt Hague has been very poorly but is better. My grandmother is as well as can be expected. My father and mother are both well and send their kind love to you, all hoping that you are all well. Please give my kind love to Mrs Evans and Miss Hall and the same yourself from your affectionate niece, Ann Lees
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Richard Jessop View all with images
Letter from Richard Jessop to Mrs Platt 1-Jul-1846
July 1st 1846 My dear Mrs Platt, By the visit of Mrs Cross I have been reminded of past times and old friends, and although I have not the opportunity of connecting with you personally yet I avail myself of a few moments for the purpose of having a few words with you through the medium of a letter. I long to be considered time has passed since I wrote to you, yet you have not been forgotten by one. I have often wondered how you are getting on and especially have I been anxious to know whether my late ministry among you has produced fruit. I hope it has not altered the heart in vain in reference to you and some branches of your family. And if I be not present to see the fruits of my labours, if you have the benefit and God the glory that is may be. It certainly is more pleasant and rewarding to reap that you continue to sow, but if one are faithful in the discharge of our duty, we are accountable for no sorrow. And whose imperfections tonight be chargeable with, you know how I have longed for the salvation of souls, and if there was one family to whom my anxiety was directed more than another, it was yours. I hope that anxiety has not been lost on those who are now no more. Often did I _ amusements with the deepest solicitude, and had they been respect and I continued at hope. I flatter myself they would have seen my joy. I hope that through words are left behind will be enabled to show that my labour has not altogether been lost on thorns. I was sorry to hear from Mrs Cross that your health has not been so good as it was used to be. I hope however that amidst all your trials and disappointments, you have your consolations and special support, that as your day is so is your strength also. Many a painful change have taken place since I left you. Yet what may to know that we lie in a world that is superintended and controlled by an all seeing and merciful God. So that in our most distressing trials, and successive afflictions, these dealing by the permission and appointment of a father that cares for us. And if they are _ as coming from him over heaviest states of affliction cannot be arrived as ill timed for they are guided by infinite wisdom, they cannot be too scarce because they are adjusted by unbounded law, they cannot fail of accomplishing this design because they are controlled by infinite power. And we know that the design of all our trials is to make us better. In knowing Father always chasteneth us for our profit. The profit of holiness. It be impoverished, it is to enrich us, if be afflicted, it is to heal and sanitise us, if he censors our friend and acquaintance it is to us closer to himself, the glorious creator, if be out of the stream, it is to bring us to the founding. I hope dear Mrs Platt you have experienced this, and that you have been enobled to say. "Trials make the promise scant Trials give new life to progress." And if _ on this sacrifice, they are blessings in disguise. It will afford me great pleasure to hear from you, and especially to hear that you are living in the enjoyment of the precious promises which _ may better. Mr Jessop and Richard unite in kindest to you to yourself and all your family and accept the same from Dear Mrs Platt Yours very sincerely Richard Jessop Please do remember us to Mrs Cross and all friends.
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John Stead Born: 26-Jul-1807, married Sarah Woodhouse on 26-Aug-1846, father: Joseph Stead Family Tree View all with images
Letter from John Stead to William Hall 19-Dec-1849
Huddersfield Dec 19th 1849 Mr William Hall Dear Sir, You will have learnt from your family the decease of your Uncle Joseph Woodhouse, and it is my duty to inform you that you and I are left executors under his Will dated the 10th instant. The tenor of his Will is that Mrs Joseph should have all the furniture, stock in trade & c, after payment of the debts, for her own benefit, and the dividends or profits of Joseph's share of the Ramsden Mill Property for her life, and at her death, to be equally divided between the two children. I do not know at present what the liabilities may be, but have no doubt but there are Book debts sufficient to pay all demands. The funeral is fixed to take place on Friday at Golcar to leave here at eleven oclock am, when if convenient you are desired to attend, and then you would be abLe to judge better the position of affairs, and I could learn your wishes, with respect to the future management, and as soon as some valuation can be fixed on the effects it will be necessary I believe for to go before the surrogate and prove the will. I am Dear sir, Yours truly, John Stead at Messrs John Cooke & co, Huddersfield
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Letter from John Stead to William Hall 26-Dec-1849
Huddersfield, December 26 1849 Mr William Hall Jnr Dear Sir, I duly received yours of the 20th instant and should have replied sooner, but have been very much engaged owing to the death of our Mr William Cooke the senior partner in the firm by which I am employed. I have not as yet made a complete analysis of Joseph Woodhouse's books, they are in a very confused state though perhaps not more so than the general state of tradesmen's books in his line, and I am sorry to state that since I last wrote, I have been informed of very old long standing account to trust Joseph Woodhouse & Mr Henry Roebuck a wholesale butcher, by which it seems that Joseph will be indebted to Roebuck above £150. I do not know how they have managed between them but a balance was struck in 1845 leaving J Woodhouse D £100 and since then two or three other balances of £20 & £30 each to his debt, and then they seemed to have opened a fresh account, leaving the old balance unprovided for. If Roebuck persists in his claim to the full, I do not know what is best to be done except to let him take all, and make the best of it. I think £20 will cover all other liabilities, and perhaps there is £40 or £60 recoverable book debt, the furniture would not fetch more than £40. Of course, I am merely guessing these respective amounts, from a cursory glance at the books, though as I before stated they are in a very confused state, and no regular postings, but can for innumerable. You are perhaps aware that Joseph Woodhouse on the death of his father would have become entitled to the freehold as heir at law to his mother, in the Ramsden Mill Property, the Interest of this, he leaves in his Will to his widow for her life and at her death to be divided equally between his two children, now if Mr Roebuck insists, this might I believe will have to be sold but I intend to see Mr Roebuck, and inform him how affairs stand and learn from him what composition he will accept, but if he seems disposed to wait until something turns up, I think it will be better to consult some respectable attorney, and let him wind the affairs up, it is no use the widow attempting to go on with a weight of debt over her head, and all had better be settled now. Waiting your opinion on the various points. I am Dear Sir, John Stead direct Mr John Stead Messrs John Cooke & Co Huddersfield
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Letter from John Stead to William Hall 16-Jan-1850
Huddersfield Jan 16th 1850 Mr William Hall Salford, Dear Sir, Yours of the 15th instant (yesterday) is duly to hand. Since I last wrote. I have made out a list of Joseph Woodhouse's debtors which I find amounts to £70.8.9 but from the reception I met with at several places when I waited upon them with their accounts, I do not suppose we can realize above £40 inclusive of £19-0-0 odd that by Uncle Joseph Woodhouse which I am afraid we shall have some difficulty in gathering. I have written to him to tell him we shall require all we can get by the end of the month, and as he pleads Mr Donning, the incumbent of Golcar owes him £35, I have told him to get an acceptance of him if he can; I think I can get all things in place for a meeting of the creditors to lay a statement before them on the evening of Monday January 28th at 7 oclock at which I should wish you to be present or if this evening is inconvenient for you, you will please to fix on another, only giving me timely notice, that I may send a circular to every creditor. We sold the Pony Cart, harness & stable utensils yesterday by public auction. They netted £6.14.10 this with 15/ received old debts and about 30/ balance left after paying the funeral expenses out of the sick club's money, are all the assets so far. I have written for the Doctor's bills, and shall put in the list of creditors, the rent, poor rate, rent of stable, shop in the_, Money Club at Golcar, and every debt we can find out, and then we can calculate how much to offer in the £. I think from 4/ to 5/ in the £ might be raised, that is to say by disposing of the furniture payable in 3 & 6 months, and if the principle creditors will not agree to the proposition, why then we will give up the whole concern into the hands of some solicitor, and he must work it through as he can according to law. Mrs Joseph and me wish respects to each and all. I am yours very truly, John Stead
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Letter from John Stead to William Hall 22-Jan-1850
Huddersfield, January 22 1850 Dear Sir, In consequence of the unfortunate events into my father in law's affairs, which has fully occupied my mind for the last four or five days, I shall be obliged to postpone the meeting of your Uncle's creditors for a week or two, until we get something more settled, as what with one thing and another I am completely run off my feet, to the neglect of own proper affairs. Excuse the brevity, you will find more details in your Aunt's letter. I am dear sir, yours truly, John Stead
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Letter from John Stead to William Hall 6-Feb-1850
Huddersfield Feb 6th 1850 Dear Sir, Yours of the 26th was duly received and having in some measure got settled again after my father in law's sudden though not unexpected overthrow, I think I can get Joseph Woodhouse's affairs into a train for examination, by the this day week, Wednesday Feb 13th or Friday the 15th, whichever day you can make it most convenient. When I receive your reply, I will address a note to each executor calling the meeting for seven oclock in order that you may arrive by the train leaving Manchester at 3.15 and we can examine and talk things over previous to the meeting. if any man had done his utmost to derange and entangle his affairs he could not have done more than my father in law. Ignorant of the common rules of arithmetic he has been buying & selling houses & land, getting money out of clubs, mortgaging one property to buy another with, that you never saw not heard of such an entangled state of things & though I have had the best professional advice to save the wreck, though the cargo has gone, yet I should think it advisable to leave all to its fate, for fear that I may get engulfed and yet he sticks as tenaciously to the idea that 'they will not do this' and 'they cannot do that', and so he will i think until he gets fastened up in York Castle, which I really think will be the upshot. Mrs Joseph is very well, and seems very anxious that her affairs at all events should be brought to a settlement, as though the shop may just be keeping itself, yet there is not any profit to encourage her to carry on that line of business. With respects to all and awaiting your reply I am Dear Sir Yours very truly, John Stead
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Letter from John Stead to William Hall 18-Feb-1850
Huddersfield, February 18th 1850 Mr William Hall Dear Sir, Yours of the 15th instant is duly to hand, and Mr Donning shall be applied to either personally or by letter in a few days, though by all reports the Reverend Gentleman is just as good a shifter and as short of money as our debtor Joseph Woodhouse, and his pew rents are in general all spent before they come due, and some money which he borrowed a few years ago to discharge on account of your Uncle Joseph who was then pressing him, is still to pay back. Mrs Joseph to whom I communicated the contents of your letter feels rather unsettled since, with respect to coming to Manchester, as she had decided on trying something here, but she will do what her family may consider the best. With respect to disposing of the furniture, we scarcely understand what you mean by saying let all be sold, and then anything that 'might go cheap, or be useful hereafter to be bought in again', for I see no necessity to sell at all anything which Mrs Joseph would think useful in case she had to furnish another house, it could unnecessarily swell the auctioneer's bill, the only question is what to reserve and what to sell, however this can be settled when you and father have seen the inventory which I enclose, and which I do not consider so highly values, besides we were obliged to say between £30 & £40 to save appearances, or it might have been remarked by the creditors at what a low sum we had put in for the furniture. You are aware also that several things were omitted purposely, having been removed to a safe place for we did not know at one time but that Roebuck might have been saucy and taken proceedings against Mrs Joseph. These things Mrs Joseph purposes keeping almost under any circumstances, and they might remain where they are, at my house until something was settled at Manchester as to Mrs Joseph's future residence and intentions. On the inventory you will find marked the Siege of the Pier Glass and carpet. I have settled with the Doctors, for one sovereign each which I think is well done. Mr Taylor grumbled and said his profession always expected their fee previous to leaving the house, and added when he was in London he never kept any books. We have put large bills up in the windows of the house and also the Shambles shop To Let and several have looked in, enquiring rent & c, and I doubt not letting the shop in a very short time, so some decision ought to be come to whether it is to be a partial or clear offsale. Since writing as above, I have seen your Aunt and read her what I had written; she says she has thought if she came over to Manchester for a day to talk matters over, she might form a better idea of the family's wishes & instructions, but will await your reply to that. Mrs Joseph & family join me in love and respect to each and all. Dear Sir, I am yours, very truly, John Stead. For your grandfather's information, i send a list of the debtors & creditors To Henry Roebuck - 168.14.11 Ian Heptenstall - 7.5.4 John Poppleton - 9.6.9 Ian Hurst - 1.1.4 Bradshaw surgeon - 2.18.6 Dr Taylor - 4.4 Estate of Sarah Hall -6.0.0 Money club at Golcar -4.4.0 Clapham Simpson - 1.10.6 Mr Broadbent - 20.10.0 Rent of Shop & House- 5 Rent of Shambles shop-3 Rent of Stable -12/ Gas Company 1.9.6 1.18 ________ £237.14.10 Sundry creditors including Joseph Woodhouse 19.7.2 Costs of hearing summons} £75.1.9 Furniture & other effects £41.11.10 _________ £96.13.7
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Letter from John Stead to William Hall 21-Mar-1850
Huddersfield March 21st 1850 Dear Sir, You would begin to think you had almost lost me for your correspondent, but since Mrs Joseph's visit to Manchester, we have been gradually bringing the affairs into smaller compass. On the 7th instant Mrs Joseph removed to her new dwelling and we had a sale of the old and other articles that she did want to take with her. The Gross amount was £ less for auctioneers charges £ realising only £ 12.17.5 but we did not sell the most valuable articles, such as the chimney glass mahogany drawers, bed & best bedding, dining table, large cupboard & c. We have since succeeded in finding a tenant for the old premises but have had a great bother with the landlord or rather landladies whose demands were so exorbitant respecting the pictures, making up the windows, and leaving the premises in the same and as good a state as they were when Joseph Woodhouse entered, that we were obliged to leave the fixtures to the incoming tenant in order to induce him to take the premises off our hands, thinking it was best to sacrifice something at present than to have a rent recurring on. I have just money in hand to pay
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Letter from John Stead to William Hall 6-Apr-1850
Huddersfield, April 6 1850 Dear Sir, Yours of the 27th duly reached me and I have paid Robert his first dividend and got a stamped receipt for the same. With respect to Mrs Joseph's lady lodger, your family need not be under any apprehension on her account, she is all i point of family connections respectability, that can be wishes. I think we shall come very near our orginal inventory, of the value of the furniture 41.11.10 as we sold for by auction - 12.17.5 the pony cart do - 6.14.10 Mrs Joseph took the Dining table - 1.10.0 Drawer - 4 " " Chimney Glass - 4 " " Carpet - 1 " " Camp Bed - 1.5 " Flock beds - " 10 " Washstand & bedroom chairs - " 17 " Couch 5/, Cup board 20/ Fender 4/ 1.9 " _________ £34.3.3 leaving about £7 short. We have a_ beans for which we have had an on offer - 1.0.0 a Tudor bed, for the bed left - 1.10 and Mrs Joseph took nearly all the linen, bedding, the clocks, large table in the shop & c besides. I saw Joseph Woodhouse on Tuesday, all shuffle and promises as usual, there will be nothing got there except by force, but I should like to get a few £s from him so as to bring it under £20 again, as at present with his share of the expenses. Court fees to it is £22.3.4 I have paid £10 for the rent to May 1st, but shall have the month's rent back from the new tenant, when due, which will make about £3.10.0 more than in our calculation, as we only put in rent to Joseph Woodhouse's death or 1 quarter. When I have seen your grandfather, which I hope to do on Thursday, we can then arrange about procuring the Will, but I should like to have some arrangements with Poppleton & Heptonstall first, from whom I have not heard anything since I saw you, and who I think are waiting the course of events, but with whom we shall be obliged to make what terms we can - though I do not see that Robert can claim anymore from us than agreed upon, with him whatever may be the amount paid the others. With respects to all I am yours truly John Stead
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Letter from John Stead to William Hall 29-Apr-1850
Huddersfield April 29 1850 Dear Sir, Enclosed you will find a letter which please sign or cause to be signed by someone with an extraordinary hard spelling name, in order to frighten some money from Joseph Woodhouse. I can get nothing but shuffles from him, but I understand that he is to receive £10 from Mr Downing on Thursday, and this letter may perhaps cause him to part with it or some of it to us. It is impossible to get the money out of many of the debtors and I intend shortly to go to the surrogate and ask for the necessary instructions for proving the Will, and at what time, he is positively to be found, so as not to call you on useless journey as I find we cannot get the debts in by fair means, we must employ force. I have settled with Poppleton for £2, but had a great blackguarding from his better or rather worse half, who talked about it being highway robbery, stealing and many other such like terms in paying £10 with £2, and wished they could so, as then they could afford to wear silks & satins, like other folks &c & c &c. Though Mrs Joseph advertised three weeks ago her intention to give lessons in drawing & c, she has not I understand had any applications as yet, and I am afraid if she has to rely upon this to achieving for her livelihood, it will be a very poor one. Will you please state at your leisure, what time of the week you are most at leisure to serve this will. I suppose the vicar only does business in a forenoon, a Monday morning would suit me the best, but as I before stated, I will call upon the vicar to get instructions the first opportunity, so as to detain you a very short time. I think we may safely swear to the personality being under £100, as the Ramsden Mill is considered as freehold, or most part of it. Mrs Joseph and family are very well and you will please to make my apology to your grandmother, for not saying goodbye to her as neither my wife nor I had any idea, but that she was going to remain at Huddersfield, until the latter part of the week. With best respects to all friends I am, your very truly, John Stead
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Letter from John Stead to William Hall 11-Jun-1850
Huddersfield June 11 1850 Dear Sir, You will be glad to learn that I have proved the will without the necessity for your attendance. I merely had a declaration to sign, and to make oath to the truth thereof, and to pay £2.6.0 with an intimation that 10/ & 15/ more would be to pay upon receipt of the probate. The 'to writ' had the desired effect in getting us £10 out of the twenty owing by Joseph Woodhouse and most terribly frightened he was, never doubting, but that a posse of bailiffs would follow after such a formidable looking summons, and I gave him to understand that it was still holding over him, that this £10 would only procure a short respite. Mrs Joseph has been doing a little of something in the drawing line, and is very anxious to get something to do. I will write as often as there is anything new, and I am glad to hear, you have so much to do, at a more profitable rate I hope than being an executor, which is anything but a pleasant lot. With best respects to all friends, I am yours truly, John Stead
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Letter from John Stead to William Hall 17-Sep-1850
Huddersfield Sept 17 1850 Mr William Hall Dear Sir, Since I last corresponded with you, I have obtained the probate of the will at a cost of £2.15.0, and so I am in a condition to enforce payment to any or all of our refractory debtors. I think I informed you that our "To writ" letter had frightened £10 out of mine Uncle Joseph Woodhouse, and I have since written him, threatening him with all the plagues of Egypt, if he disappoints us of the balance on Tuesday next, which is the last day that I have able to get for him from that terrible Manchester lawyer that frightened him before. I understand that some pew rents become due on or about 4th Oct and he has promised from the Rev Donning that his bill for beef shall be discharged therewith. I should be sorry to throw any of Joseph Woodhouse's money away in further legal proceedings but I am afraid that in the end, we shall be obliged to put the screw on. Our next principal debtor, Charles Bradley £5.10.9 has scheduled £4.2.0 thereof, and has a set off besides leaving about 10/ or 12/ to draw. There are several others, to whom I have written separately, or have been called upon by myself or your Aunt from whom we get evasive answers or flat denials - or set offs - for instance Joseph Wood - 15/10 a set off of 13/5 William Cliffe - 20/10 station master, Batley. I have written 3 or 4 times, no reply. Turner, Zetland Inn 34/ - set off 15/ for subscription to the club and says, he has paid part of the balance. I cannot get his bill though I have been 4 times in the last 10 days. Inman - 12/8 - asked bill set off. Joshua Hall, Milur Bridge 13/8 scheduled Edward Eastwood 35/4 - dead no effects - and so to the end of the chapter. Now for the other side, we owe yet Henry Roebuck £16.17.4 Heptenstall £5.5.4 - and a few shillings interest. Clapham & Simpson £1.10.6 - they claim something more William Broadbent £15.10.0 - and some interest Estate of Sarah Hall £6.0.0. You are aware that Roebuck's second dividend is due on the 1st proximo, and unless Joseph Woodhouse's brings his money, we shall be in a fix, for I have nothing in hand, for the £10 received from Joseph Woodhouse and about £6 from other sources has been paid by your Aunt £5 to Broadbent, £2 to Heptenstall, the Will proving £2.15.0 and housekeeping expenses. I should suppose we have swallowed up the rest. You will therefore now have an idea how things stand with us, Roebucks is the only debt which is pressing for should he not be paid according to promise, he might come back from his agreement, which would be serious indeed. However we shall see what Joseph Woodhouse does next Tuesday, and if no better, I must wait on Henry Roebuck and explain to him and get him to wait until after the Ramsden Mill meeting, when most probably I shall see your grandfather. With respect to each member of your family. I am Yours every truly, John Stead
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Letter from John Stead to William Hall 31-Aug-1859
Stables Street Huddersfield Aug 31 1859 Mr William Hall Dear Sir, I wrote to your father about a fortnight ago, at the request of Mr Hesp the solicitor to the Ramsden Mill Co. to enquire if amongst your late grandfather's papers, there was a deed of the date of 1st January 1805, between William Bathy of the first part, William Hall & Mr Straw of the 2nd part, and William, Sarah, Elizabeth, Martha Mary Hall of the 3rd part. This deed is registered at Wallofield, but Aunt Walker has no recollection of its purport. I have not had any reply from your father but as I learn you were one of your grandfather's executors, it is probable that you will have access to his papers, and Mr Hesp will thank you to see if this is amongst them or any other papers belonging to the Ramsden Mill Estate to facilitate the carrying out the shareholder, is liable for the company's debts and the number of shareholders is daily increasing, and consequently the liability to disagree is greater. Mr Hesp states that it is very necessary the deed in question should be found, as it may have altered the powers of bequest of the children of Mary Hall (your great grandmother) in fact there is no knowing what it was for, but at all events it was registered at Walleford on the date given - January 1805. A reply at your earliest convenience will oblige, yours truly, John Stead
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Letter from John Stead Colleague to William Hall 9-Sep-1859
Hudddersfield 9th Sept 1859 Sir, Mr Stead of this place, has handed us your letter to him of the 4th instant, in which you state that the deed of 1st January 1805 made between William Baltze of the 1st part William Hall & Ino Shaw of the 2nd part and Mrs Hall, Sarah Hall, Elizabeth Hall, Martha Hall & Mary Hall of the 3rd part is in your possession, & will be forwarded to us on an understanding that it will be returned to you. We undertake to return the document within 24 hours after it has been received, & shall be glad if we can have it on Monday next. We are your obedient servant Hespwith. William Hall Esq Surgeon 9 Crescent Parade Salford Manchester
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Letter from John Stead Colleague to William Hall 12-Sep-1859
Huddersfield 12th sept 1859 Sir, In accordance with the undertaking given in our letter of the 9th instant, we beg to return the Deed, therein referred to, received this morning, by Book Post. Please to acknowledge its safe arrival I oblige Yours respectfully, Hesp & Owen
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Letter from John Stead to William Hall 23-Jul-1860
Stather Street Huddersfield July 23 1860 Dear Sir, The transfer deeds of the old Ramsden Mill Company to the new joint Stock Company are now ready for signing, all the parties at Huddersfield have signed this morning and as five who have to sign in or around Manchester, Mr Owen, Solicitor, proposes to come over to Manchester on Saturday next the 28th instant. He will be at the Blackpool Commercial Hotel, Blackpool Street at 1 oclock where you will please to meet him along with your father, Uncle William, Mr Cantell & George Woodhouse to all whom I have written to be there at the same time. With respect from all here, I am Dear Sir, Yours truly, John Stead. Mr Hall Esq Surgeon Salford
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Letter from John Stead Huddersfield to William Hall Salford 24-Jul-1860
Stather Street Huddersfield July 24 1860 Dear Sir, In reply to yours of this date, though your father & Uncle William are the bona-fide owners of the Ramsden Mill as they stood at your Grandfather's death, yet there are 7 shares out of 21 which Aunt Walker at present enjoys which belong to your grandfather's estate after Aunt Walker's death which were bequeathed by Aunt Sarah Hall. Now I am informed by the solictor that the reason you & Mr Cambell are required to sign is as executors to your grandfather and that the additional amount or value of the shares since Aunt sarah's death is personal property and consequently belongs to the residue of your grandfather's property, not to those to whom the mills are bequeathed and that you as executor have it in trust, and besides you are personally interested as my co-executor under Joseph Woddhouse's Will, and we have placed his shares in trust for his children after the decease of Joshua Woodhouse and your Aunt Woodhouse but Mr Owen will be better able to explain these last points better than I can, Yours very truly John Stead Wm Hall Esq, Salford
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Letter from John Stead to William Hall 24-Jul-1860
Stather Street Huddersfield July 24 1860 Dear Sir, In reply to yours of this date, though your father & Uncle William are the bona-fide owners of the Ramsden Mills as they stood at your grandfather's death - yet there are 7 shares out of 21 which Aunt Walker at present enjoys which belong to your grandfather's estate after Aunt Walker's death - which were bequeathed by Aunt Sarah Hall. Now I am informed by the solicitor that the reason you & Mr Cambell are required to sign is as executors to your grandfather and that the additional amount or value of the shares since Aunt Sarah's death is personal property and consequently belongs to the residue of your grandfather's property - not to those to whom the mills were bequeathed and that you as executors have it in trust - and besides you are personally interested as my co-executor, under Joseph Woodhouse's will - and we have placed his shares in trust for his children after the decease of Joshua Woodhouse and your Aunt Woodhouse - but My Owen will be better able to explain these last points better than I can. Yours very truly, John Stead Mr Hall Esq, Salford 28 July 1860 Value of Ramsden Mill Co: £14000 8 marginal shares £1750 each again divided into 5 parts: £350. 1/5 of a 2 and 8th under the will of the late Hugh Ramsden of 1812 & one full 1/8 share under Joshua Hall 1805. 420 shares to the Hall family. 84 each under the will of my grandfather William Hall. Also 21 shares under the will of Sarah Hall. 7 additional shares under the will of Sarah Hall as _ & Mrs Walker for life only. John Hall 52 shares William Hall 53 shares The 21 shares held for life by Mrs Walker are divided into three portions, one to my grandfather & consequently to my father & Uncle William & another to Joseph Walker & Sarah Taylor & the last to Joseph Woodhouse, Mary Whitwren & Sarah Stead. Aunt Woodhouse has 56 shares which are to be divided at her death between George & Martha Jane Woodhouse, Joshua Wooodhouse has the interest in the above during his life, then it falls to Aunt Woodhouse & upon her death to her children.
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Letter from Mr Stead to J P Hall 3-Feb-1890
Hortonthorpe Huddersfield, 3 Feb 1890 Dear Mr Hall, I am duly in receipt of yours of the 1st instant. With respect to the interest to be received from the Huddersfield Corporation, you are perhaps aware that Mr Joseph Clark of Huddersfield is co-trustee with myself. On the 1st January I received the dividend warrant made payable to myself and Mr Clark. I went to Huddersfield on the 7th January and found that Mr Clark was in America and would not be at home for several months. I then went to the bank, but they said they could not pay without both signatures. I asked my own bankers and they told me the same tale. If I pay it be out of my own pocket, and anything happening to me before Mr Clark's return or to Mr Clark might cause some bother. What am to do - the bank is so very particular. I find in one case that 12 trustees had to sign and Mrs Clark has no authority to sign her husband's name, but I will write to her and ask her when she cannot to get his authority. We are sorry to learn of Mrs Carhill's serious position. I learn from Mrs Woodhouse that she was in a parlous state of health, but old folks cannot expect to live for ever. I am in my 83rd year. With respects to yourself, Mrs Hall & family. I am yours truly, John Stead Mr J P Hall Oldham
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Mary Sloane View all with images
Letter from Mary Sloane To Mrs Buckley late Miss Schofield Marriage Advice Hannah Greaves
To Mrs Buckley late Miss Schofield, We were indeed very much surprised to hear of your marriage but are happy to learn by Miss Lees and Greaves that you are married to a very steady young man. It is our earnest wish that you may be soulmates to each other in the way to heaven. You request me to write and give you a little advice, this I shall gladly attempt, may the Lord direct me to such ideas as shall be for your real edification; ever keep in mind my dear friend the vast consequences of eternal things _ that we have an immortal soul that must either be infinitely happy inexpressibly miserable and that forever, herby there it is of the greatest importance that we should have right views of religion or the salvation of the soul, a mistake on the subject would be of fatal consequence. You say you have own prospect of leading a good life and being very comfortable. I sincerely wish you every enjoyment which will be for your real welfare and that you may be enabled to conduct yourself in all things as becometh a Christian, yet something more than a regular life is necessary for we can be in a safe state, though we should attend quite regularly on the public means, read the scriptures daily and pray twice thrice or even seven times a day, though we should be honest in all our dealings, kind to our friends and liberal to the poor, all this will avail us nothing unless our hearts have been changed by divine grace and we have fled to the Lord Jesus Christ for salvation, should we rely upon anything we do instead of using it, we shall be found to have built upon the sand for there can be no other safe foundation laid than that which God himself has laid which is the work Christ upon Cross we must build our hopes for salvation, he died to redeem our souls from misery by suffering the punishment he wrote our sins by satisfying that justice which we had offended by fulfilling that law which we had violated and thus removed that curse which we had incurred and worked out for us complete righteousness in which alone we can appear before God with acceptance but we shall more rightly trust in Christ, we shall heartily approve to that _ of salvation which God has appointed till our hearts have been changed by his grace
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W Sidebotham Ashley Cottage View all with images
Letter from W Sidebotham Ashley Cottage to Mr Platt 27-June-1844
Ashley Cottage, 27 June 1844 Dear Sir, I received you letter on the 25th instant last night on my way home. In answer beg leave to say that I am holding for 1/ per stone about a fortnight. I sent my man to buy me a stack offering 9 but could not get it under 10, and in every town 20 miles from and _ . Hay is selling at 12 or 13 but I believe if you will send your man into the Manchstr market you may yet buy at 8 or 9 per stone. It is as yet the cheapest market in England. I saw Captain Clarke yesterday, he told me he had just received a letter from his brother in law at Whitchurch Shropshire and in that part most of them had eaten their meadows and some had actually turned their cattle into the corn. I have eaten 3 meadows and my next neighbour 6 - so trying the market if you cannot do will be writing again, can send you the hay to miller platting on Tuesday. Sister joins me in kind regards to Mrs Platt and family and believe me yours truly, W Sidebotham
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John Stevenson Born: 03-Dec-1772, died: 15-Oct-1862, father: Ralph Stevenson, mother: Ann Dale Family Tree View all with images
Letter From John Stevenson to Brother and Sister re Death Of Father 4-Jan-1818
1818, January 4th Chadleton Dear sister and brother, I am grieved to inform you that my dear father departed this life this morning about 10 o'clock and my mother desires you will come over on the receipt of this. From your brother, John Stevenson
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Harold Sykes Longford Hall Born: 19-Feb-1865, married Winifred Charlotte Jane Wellesley on 05-Feb-1903, died: 13-Feb-1942, father: Thomas Hardcastle Sykes, mother: Mary Platt Family Tree View all with images
Letter from Harold Sykes, Longford Hall to Henry Platt Hall re death of mother
Longford Hall Newport Salop March 4th 1904 My dear Henry, I only heard yesterday of the sad death of your mother. I did not know she was even ill, I write to offer you my deepest sympathy in your sad loss; it is one that one never can replace and a gap that can be filled as I know only too well. I wish I could have come to the funeral but I only got the notice yesterday and it was then too late. My brother Alan is in Algiers so he too will not be there. Again my deepest sympathy with you all in your trouble & with kind remembrance to your wife, Your affectionate cousin Harold P Sykes
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Mr Wilson FRCS View all with images
Letter from Mr Wilson FRCS to Trustees Royal Salford Hospital Re William Hall 2-Jun-1847
(Copy) To the Trustees of the Royal Hospital and Dispensary of Salford. Gentlemen, Understanding that Mr William Hall is about to offer himself a Candidate for the office of Surgeon to your excellent establishment, I feel great pleasure in bearing testimony to his great industry, zeal and humanity, with which I have been personally acquainted; Mr Hall having for a long period officiated as my pupil and dresser at the Manchester Royal Infirmary. I also beg respectfully to express my opinion as to Mr Hall's fitness to discharge the important duties of any hospital appointment, and from his regular and gentlemanlike demeanour on all occasions, I feel convinced he would do credit to a public appointment. I have the honour to be, Gentlemen, Your obedient servant Mr James Wilson FRCS Eng Surgeon to the Royal Infirmary Mosley St. June 2 1847
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Compiled by William Bridge - williambridge@stanwardine.com - April 2012