As a father

On this Father's Day, if you would allow me to express my appreciation for my two daughters, Martha and Maria. They are a source of immense joy.

After Maria passed away on April 17, 1804, my other daughter Martha, whom I call Patsy, sent me the most affectionate letter that any father could receive.

Prior to this letter, I sent her a most regrettable letter complaining about the terrible trip I experienced, filled with setbacks and trouble to which I mostly talked about myself. But Patsy redeemed my blunder. Below is an excerpt, with the full letter in one of the images attached.

"Edgehill May 31, 1804

"Pardon me Dearest Father for having so long delayed answering your letter. great was the anxiety I suffered until it arrived, nor was that any ways relieved by hearing what a horrible journey you had had, although it may ultimately prove fortunate if it serves as a warning against future exposure to cold and fatigue which every day of your life you will be less able to bear. no apology can be necessary for writing lengthily to me about yourself. I hope you are not yet to learn that no subject on earth is or ever can be so dear and interesting to me. I speak so entirely without an exception that I do not hesitate to declare if my other duties could possibly interfere with my devotion to you I should not feel a scruple in sacrifising them, to a sentiment which has literally grown with my growth and strengthened with my strength, and which no subsequent attachment has in the smallest degree weakened. it is truly the happiness of my life to think that I can dedicate the remainder of it to promote yours. it is a subject however upon which I ought never to write for no pen on earth can do justice to the feelings of my heart."