Mary Dockray letter to Charity Rodman, 31 December

              B-243-1 
Dear Cousin
        Thy acceptable letter of the 21st of 12 mo I receive d
by Brother Johnny, & it has not a little concern d me that my
omission in writing to thee, has had the appearance of such
seeming neglect & forgetfulness, when I am sensible thy kind
letters merited my acknowledgement but indeed my Cousin
there is such a contrast in our situations that I think
thee can scarcely form an adequate Idea of mine, but I
hope not to repine at my allotment  it would be great
ingratitude, for I think there are many more deserving
that are not permited to enjoy many favours that are
bestow d on me ~ The affectionate care & remembrance
that many of my Dear Newport friends have mani-
fested for me in my exile(for so it seems) is not the
least in my estimation, & hath been inexpressibly grate-
ful to me, it was a sharp tryal to be separated from
your Monthly Meeting, but I find if such provings are
closely attended to the most bitter will yield sweet satisfaction.
	      The late distressing event thou mentions is truly
affecting, & I think affords instruction & indeed we have