William Rotch, Sr. letter to Thomas Rotch, London 2nd mo 28 1786

               
  B-163-4
                  No 4
  my dear Son Thos                 London 2nd mo 28 1786
        Although I have note lately recd any letter from thee
  I do not construe it a mark disregard, or want of filiate affection
  but rather, from being much engaged in business at some times, and
  perhaps at others a diffidence, or not being able to please thyself in letter
  writing, bu remember when it is to thy Father thou need not let either
  of these considerations prevent, as he would willingly cast a veil over
  any imperfections of this kind in his Children, being desirous to encour-
  age them in a very good work, for my chiefest care is a desire they
  may have a hope of a place of rest, now my dear son mind the
  best things, things that will tend to true peace. I hope I need not
  remind thee to be attentive to thy dear Mother, whose love labour &
  care for thee deserves all the return thou can make, live in love
  with they dear brothers & Sisters; and I hope this is the case. we are
  now far separated but I hope if it be the will of Divine Providence
  to see you all in a few months more, when if it I should be so favored
  hope it will be a joyfull meeting, and nothing can produce that
  so fully in my Children as to find them growing in the best things.
  I have not time to add, only my love to Lydia & Mary, as I dont
  know that I shall have time to write to them now, and am
                           Thy affectionate Father
                                              W Rotch