1829 June 29, Philada, to Brother

              Letter from Henry Cope to Wm D CopeDear BrotherI have [collected] thy dividends from the Commercial & Farmers & Mechanics Banks & they stand to thy credit in our books. Thy [drafts] in for A C Avery [----] dated 16 [----] for 50 dollars - for [---.] C Biddle dated 5th [-----] 100 dollars - [----] of the same for like amt. dated 13 [----] have all been paid.Alfred made inquiry for the papers missed by thee but without success. - I could join thee sincerely in thy ride through the woods in enjoying the scenery in this season of the year. There is certainly something remarkably soothing in nature, & which our walks in the bustle & noise of the city wholly lack. With the earth clothed in [---------], the sky serene, & the air pure, we might exclaim what can be added to increase our delight? But yet our conscience warns us that something is wanting which these cannot give. Some of the prospects I had in my journey last summer exhibited a scene so peaceful, that I could almost wonder how any thing could there occur to disturb the happiness of man. Yet when I entered into conversation with the inhabitants, I found they had their cares & their anxieties their temptations & infirmities as others have.I have just returned from Aunt Sarah Scull's having taken our Mary down to spend a few weeks with her. Cousin Sarah is preparing to join Edwd. & Caroline & Alfred & Eleanor in an excursion to Boston & its vicinity. They expect to leave the city about the first of next month. Edward & Alfred both require relaxation from business. Chas. Yarnall is now about in order in recruit his health. Ellis remains very delicate without any prospect of permanent improvement.I cannot answer thy inquiry about the author of the watchman [further], than when I asked D B Smith if he was not, he said he had something to do with it. I think there are those who write[Note in another hand] xN.B. Aunt Mary Haines