[Audio extract] Letter from William Sheppard, Woodfield, February 25, 1847

Woodfield, 25 February 1847

My Dear Margaret,

I know not yet what turn my unfortunate affairs may take, but if forced into bankruptcy I intended fully to put in your claim on my property in order to ensure its safety.

As to ourselves, we have not as yet matured any plan for the future, yet we have made up our mind to leave Woodfield and probably live with Charlotte for a year or so till we can settle ourselves somewhere to our liking, most likely in their neighbourhood. Our fond hopes of happiness arising out of a state of expected independence are now flown. It remains for us only to seek comfort within ourselves, if to be obtained, and bear the contumely of the world in the best way we are able. In any case, such cannot  be inflicted on us many years. We have happiness of another kind in prospect before us to which we intend to devote ourselves to be qualified for its enjoyment when the time shall arrive. No doubt these visitations are kindly intended for our own benefit by an all wise being who knows better than we do ourselves what is for our good.

My dear Margaret

Your ever affectionate brother

William Sheppard