Ellen W. Randolph (Coolidge) to Martha Jefferson Randolph
| Richmond Jan. 5th 1816 |
Phill is just leaving town my dearest Mother and I detain him a few moments untill I can write f a few lines to let you know that we arrived safe last evening. the first days journey was a very disagreable one, the roads rough and the carriage a very uneasy, one at Goochland Court, house where we stopped to breakfast yesterday, we were so fortunate as to meet Gen. Cock coming down with Miss Nancy Moreland and a gentleman of his acquaintance; he insisted that Jane & myself should get in his carriage and his friend and himself take our places in the stage. we were very unwilling at first to turn him out of his warm delightfull birth, into ours, which was so uncomfortable, but he insisted, and we made the exchange. his carriage was close and warm, very easy, with a good driver and four strong horses. we soon left the stage behind us, and proceeded with no escort but Gen. Cock’s son, a boy of about twelve. we arrived we did not stop to dine, on the road and reached Richmond a little before sunset; Jane stopped at the Governors, and I came on here, where I had the pleasure to find Aunt Randolph quite recovered and Ann Randolph still with her. I am not much fatigued, and Jane bore the journey very well; I have not seen either her or Jefferson or herself this morning, as yet. we found Grand Papa’s fur delightfull. I do not know what we should have done without it, for we were out untill past eight Wednesday evening, and off again an hour before day the next morning. We had reason to bless Gen. Cock’s kindness, for oweing to the frequent delays at the different post offices &c. the stage did not arrive here untill after seven o clock. Adieu, I write in a great hurry as Phill who is now waiting can tell you. Aunt Randolph and Cousin Ann send their love.
Adieu my dearest Mother. Give my love to every body, and write to let me know how my dear Papa is.—