1833 July 19, Philadelphia, to Rachel R. Cope, Deal, N.J.

              Philadelphia, 7th mo 19th 1833

Dear Mother;

I suppose thee will think it a late time for me to begin to write a letter to thee, at 8 o'clock in the evening, when I know that it will have to go early tomorrow morning. But my lessons have interfered with writing thee one. But as I have not much time I think I might begin to tell thee something.
Thee has not heard, I suppose what a dreadful occurrence took place at Uncle Edwards on 4th day. So I will give thee an account of it. It was about 4 o'clock in thee afternoon when Elizabeth complained of head-ache and went up stairs, she staid there until Aunt Caroline come up for Mary to get her supper, she found her at the window, but said nothing to her; pretty soon she came up again and this time found her in bed; Aunt asked her whether she would have any thing but received no answer. She concludded she was either sleepy or did not want to be disturbed and went down. Not feeling altogether easy she came up again and called Uncle Edward. He perceived by her breathing she was unwell, and went for Dr's. Beasly & Thomas. They said she had been taking Corrosive Sublimate. They found she had it in her possession for the bedsteads and tho' Poison was written in large letters round the bottle they thought she must of taken it intentionally. But my dear mother it is now getting late and I will have to conclude, and remain

Thy affectionate nephew
Francis R Cope

P.S. Grandmother sends her love and says thee must make thyself happy and easy about home. Mary also sends her love and