So, I'm diving into the past - June 28, 1842
This is a transcript of part of a letter from Hugh Wright in Kilmarnock to his brother Duncan Wright in Manchester.
Most of the letter is taken up by explaining that the apprenticeship Duncan had asked Hugh to arrange for a Mr Gibson with a Mr Hood has fallen through as Mr Hood will not take anyone on for 12 months, "trade being so dull", i.e. the business being quiet. Hugh says "send him to his father and let him put him to a trade but perhaps you will object to Glasgow for fear of bad company but I say there is as much of it here". I'm not sure why Duncan Wright was responsible for securing a placement for this lad Gibson.
Towards the end Hugh becomes more personal and slightly maudlin, saying that he hasn't heard from their brother Angus for a while and is hoping nothing is wrong. Also asking about their friend "anything from Mr McAllister coming home this year?" [from Buenos Aires?]
"We are in good health here at present but I cannot but remember with sorrow the loss of my amiable sons and this day tells me it is just a year since the love of my heart took his first fever and a sad time I had for 14 days and nights until the fever took a turn for the better.
Time works wonderful changes upon man and manners in this world but I never can under any circumstance alleviate from my memory the loss of those boys.
I must confess myself rather childish about my loss but I cannot help it. I sleep on the very spot where Duncan died and it is often far in the morning before sleep closes the eyes of your
ever loving brother
Hugh Wright
