Typed transcript of letter from Eleanor Anne Franklin to her sister-in-law Elizabeth (Betsey) Franklin, including references to Franklin being at Captain Parry's ball and the building of decorated boats at Woolwich Discussion about mourning clothes; discussion about Betsey's health, health of Mrs Burnside, Mr Elliott's eyes; reference to mineralogical questions from niece Sophia, query regarding children's educational progress and Emily's progress in French; John Franklin is busy with preparations, Dr and Mrs Richardson staying with them; newpapers say how Franklin was "pulled to pieces" by the ladies at Captain Parry's ball; while Franklin is flirting, she compares herself with a chrysalis hidden away; description of John Franklin's boats at Woolwich, painted blue and gold and adorned with various mythological characters, sad that she will not see them before they set sail; James Franklin is "revived by the warm weather"; receipt of letter from Toulouse; asks to be remembered to Mr Sellwood and the children; Eleanor will try to write to as many sisters as she can by the end of the month as well as to old friends who have not heard from her since her marriage. PS: enquiry regarding money being paid into Masterman and Co., Bankers on Mr Sellwood's account. Original letter dated 11 May 1824 (11 May 1824) [20th cent]