Letter dated 29 July 1852 from Alexander Esplin to his son, John Esplin

Letter dated 29 July 1852 from Alexander Esplin of Lochee, County Angus, Scotland, to his son, John Esplin in America, responding to John's report of safe arrival in America. This letter was written only month's before Alexander's death

Lochee July 29, 1852 My Dear John It was with much pleasure that I received your letter informing me of your pleasant voyage and safe arrival as I was very much concerned about you. I mentioned you to all the friends whom you mentioned in your letter and many more who have been making inquiry about you who are all glad to hear such good news from a far country. I had a letter from David inquiring about you. He is well and requests me to send him your address as he wishes to write to you. Willie sailed eleven weeks ago for Australia. George and Thomas Wallace and families are well. David and Isabell and family are all well. The crops are looking beautiful here. We expect harvest in about three weeks. You mention the probability of your coming to Scotland again. I need not say that would give us all much pleasure. You mention your stability in the faith you profess. May God bless you in it and may you ever bear in mind that Christ is the rock on which to build. If you build the house of your hopes on any other, it may glitter in the sunshine of prosperity but will not stand in the day of God's wrath. In speaking of the flowers and vales of your new home, you will doubtless unite with the poet who says: I love you for the lulling me back into dreams, The blue of highland mountains and echoing streams, And of birchen glades breathing their balm, While the deer was seen glancing in sunshine. The deep mellow crush of the wood pigeon's song, Made music that sweetened the calm Uncle and Auntie in Kerrimuir are much about it. Uncle and Aunt Webster are well. James Almot and John Webster are still alive. Mrs. Linday and grandchild wish to be remembered to you. I have little more that can interest you. I am, dear John, your affectionate father Alexander Esplin