1852: Rosanna (McGuffin) Richey to John Machis Brough

Benjamin Richey's Service Record

This letter was written by Rosanna (McGuffin) Richey (1815-18xx), wife of Benjamin Richey, whom she married in 1 December 1840 in Montgomery County, Texas.

She wrote the letter to John Machis Brough (1800-18xx), son of Peter and Jean (Machis) Brough. John married Ann C. Ritchey in May 1834.

Stampless Cover

Letter

TRANSCRIPTION

Addressed to Mr. John Brough, Mason County, near Washington, Kentucky. Polite favour of Judge Shea.

Houston, Texas
December 12th 1852

Mr. John Brough,

Sir,

After my respects, I hasten to inform you of a few incidents that have occurred here lately: namely the arrival of Andrew Richie and family; death of his wife whom we have all loved for the acquaintance we had sincerely. She died of congestive fever. Benjamin’s health has been very bad for two years but since the approach of winter, he has been on the mend.

I regret to mention that the influence of Andrew is almost unlimited over Benjamin and has resulted in the what might be termed a temporary separation between Ben and myself, but what concerns you in this affair is the interest in the Grandpa’s estate so far in Benjamin’s control comes directly under the management of Andrew (to prevent this which I suppose would not be agreeable to you). You must place the first papers we forwarded to you on record in such a position that should another transfer come on that they go on record first. I am encouraged to communicate this to you as I have learned that you are a man of firmness and integrity and that if I dropped a word to put you on your guard what I had nothing to fear of it coming back in an aggravated shape between Benjamin and myself. Please do not let the connection know that you received this letter from me. Yours truly, — Rosanna Richey