Smithfield Preston Foundation
Papers, 1784-1881, n.d., Ms97-002
January 30, 1821 -- letter from Francis Preston to James McDowell
Jany. 30, 1821
Dear James
Since my last, your uncle William has closed his eyes upon a world of suffering and sorrow, in which it has been the lot of very few to have born affliction equal to his. he retained his senses to the last moment and died without a struggle as Sister Madison informs me who was present.
He got me to remodel his ---- and come home and in addition to his Kentucky ---- he appointed your father and Major Peyton who I suppose will have the will proven at Montgomery court and forward it to Mrs. Caroline Preston to have proved in Jefferson court where it will be immediately ---- in consequence of the suits pending in that court.
It is with great pleasure I have it in my power to inform you that Williams wife has gotten so much better that we strongly hope his disease is temporary. her father arrived a few days ago, since when I have not heard from her, but I think it highly probable she will take a trip to the South which I hope will entirely establish her health. All the rest of our friends in the county are well and things here preety much as usual. Susan her mother ---- ---- to Hallifax in a fortnight or 3 weeks so as to get down against the 10th of March.
Two or three days since I recd from my Lawyers in Louisville a letter acknowledging the recd of the papers carried by ---- to Mr. ---- so that every thing on that score is right. Please to inform me as soon as possible the fate of my ---- with Reynolds, for ---- ----- writes.
May God bless you all
Your affectionate friend
and father
Francis Preston
My Brother died on the 24th
---- (Wednesday)
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