1851 June 16, Philadelphia, to Dear Frances, Cape May

              Philada. June 16 1851Dear FrancisAs Thomas is a good deal occupied today I have thought it best to endeavor to supply his place in furnishing thee with the few items of interest which have occurred since 2nd day morning. On that morning Father & Mother left their house & got out safe to brother Alfred’s. Alfred says Mother appears much better, but Father has not been well, owing probably to too much exertion on his part. His Doctr Shallross [?] has been particularly earnest with him to avoid, as well as any excitement.  He appeared better this morning; but Alfred has sent the Doctor out to see him as it is of great importance to give timely attention to every ailment at his advanced age. Thomas & Elizabeth came up from Chester yesterday & remained in town last night to see Henry Stokes who got to the wharf late in the afternoon in the Tuscarora. He says Henry, their babe, is better. Elizabeth is however not very well, but I hope she will feel better when she gets to Germantown. Henry Stokes looks much improved.The Tuscarora has had a fine run & Captn. Turley says she has sailed better than ever. All well on board. She took the steamer Hercules at Chester.Tell Annie we are getting along as usual at her brother John’s. Laura has had another