Margaret opened the letter from her sister-in-law, hoping Elizabeth had good news to share. Margaret’s own life was in disarray. She was with child again, and John Douglas was still sickly. Terror gripped her heart every time John sneezed or coughed; they couldn’t afford a doctor. William was not working, and his melancholia permeated every facet of their lives. She’d taken in mending to earn enough money to feed the children. Adding another to the mix was a pressure she didn’t look forward to.
Gawler Street, Portland
Gawler Street, PortlandDear Margaret
Dear MargaretWe are settled in a new, grand, house in Portland, and the farm is doing well. John is working hard.
We are settled in a new, grand, house in Portland, and the farm is doing well. John is working hard.I must share some sur
