| Description | Arrival of sketch book safely, presumably on day Kay's mother got his letter; Back sent it to Ingoldmells, but is not sure exactly where it is now. Thanks for offer to send letter by Back to H.M.S. Chanticleer, but he has not received anything from any of the men on board, so does not see need to send one himself; if Kay is sending one to his brother [Henry Kay], Back to be mentioned kindly and asks to know how he likes his profession. Pained to hear of Kay's mother's indisposition, with hope she is better. Glad Kay's sister has benefitted her health by being at Portsmouth, which he had not known about. Back's lack of success in taking part in fishing and shooting. |
| Recipient Location | 6 Gower Street, Bedford Square, London |
| Transcript or Index | Stamford Sept 4th 1828
My dear Kay
The sketch book arrived safely at its destination the day on which I suppose your mother must have got my letter and I did not think it worthwhile to write again on the subject, merely to state its reception. I sent it away directly but I am by no means certain where it is now, except at Ingoldmells. I am obliged to you for the opportunity you afford me of sending to the Chanticleer, but as I have not yet been favoured with a single line from any man on board I do not see that there is any necessity for my troubling them with a letter, if however you have not closed yours to your brother, I shall feel obliged, by your mentioning me kindly to him and requesting to know how he likes his profession.
It has occasioned me some pain to hear of your mother’s late indisposition- the complaint has been prevalent about here, but in consequence of the favourable change in the weather I think it is becoming less frequent.
I was not aware that your sister had been to Portsmouth but I am glad she has benefitted her health by it. For my own part as I had no very great luck at fishing, beyond catching Pike, Perch, Roach, Bream, Gudgeon, Chub and Minnows. I have put myself into a shooting club, taken out a certificate, destroyed several flasks of powder, pounds of shot, sundry portions of bread and cheese, some few partridges, and got uncommonly wet and tired. In the hope that every member of your family is enjoying good health and with my best regards to all, believe me,
My dear Kay, Ever Truly Yours, Geo Back
P.S. Rather nervous
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