1801


Thomas Beddoes to Davies Giddy, 18 November 1801

18 Nov 1801

Dear Giddy

Mrs Obryen is in a confirmed consumption – so rapid that I am assured she expectd no matter at the beginning of her journey. Whereas at the end she expectd 3 or 4 ounces of pure gross pus – But once these 6 months have I seen so galloping a case – I have scarce any expectation of a favourable issue – The symptoms are a little abated – the hectic fever less –

I think, of the two – constitution & sex considered, she has more chance from medicine. Indeed she cd hardly get to Falmouth – I had rather she was at sea, for my own part – but cannot advise it – at least, in an encouraging manner –

Was I less pressed, I shd use [xxxx] <more> words – but cd say no more –

My wife intends writing to yr sister soon – she has been pretty well of late – & means to retire to ye straw soon

If physical advantages <are to have great weight in the case> & if the greatness of states depends on the exertion of intellect in individuals, France must soon be mistress of ye sea as she is of ye land – I subscribe to all Wyndham says, reading war for peace – I am

Dear Giddy
yours truly

Thomas Beddoes

Address: Davies Giddy Esq / Tredrea / Marazion / Cornwall
Endorsement: Doctor Beddoes / 1801 / Novr the 18th
MS: Cornish Archives DG 42/13


The full versions of these letters with textual apparatus will be published by Cambridge University Press.