H. V. Rossiter.
From one Brother to another, on having unexpectedly amassed a Fortune.
Natal, S. Africa, February 1st, 187—
Dear William,
You are well aware that when I sailed from England a few years ago, after paying my passage out I had but a very few pounds left; but I soon got good employment, and saved out of my wages all that I possibly could. I never was very fond of company, and have no expensive habits; so at the end of two years I found myself with 30l. to my credit in the bank. When the report came here of diamonds being found up the country, I started off, bag and baggage, and on my arrival got an allotment, and went to work with a hearty good will. For many a weary day I toiled, giving myself little time for rest. At last I was rewarded: among the washings I found a diamond, a small one, yet what a treasure I thought it! On and on I toiled—some weeks with success, and others with none; however, my labours have been successful: I have been fortunate enough to find diamonds, which, when valued, have realized the handsome sum of £——.
Tell my dearest mother that now she will never want. I am coming home, and shall invest for her sole use during her lifetime £——.
Will you, dear William, look out for a good school for my little sister? She must be nine years of age now. Ask the clergyman's wife to recommend you one. I wish her to be educated as a lady, and she shall have the £—— at my mother's death. How I wish our poor father had lived to derive some comfort from my fortune! You shall have 100l. paid to your credit to provide the things Jane will require on going to school, and to pay for the first half-year's expenses there. I hope to be home in six months, when I will take a suitable house for our dear mother. If you will accept it from me, I make you a present of £——; with the remainder of my earnings I shall purchase a nice property, so that I may be certain my money will be secure, for were I to speculate I might lose all.
With best love, and hoping shortly to see you happy and well,