Drunkenness In 1844 Teetotalism Rules OK

Another old letter in our collection which makes interesting reading:-

This is a really interesting item, as it is in a tiny envelope, which had become more prevalent once the Penny post had been introduced, as it no longer cost double the postage if an envelope was used. It is addressed Mr Saml Jarrold, London St, Norwich, and was sent from Glasbury, Brecon.



Glasbury Mar 11 '44
My Dear Friend,
I have taken up my pen to write to you the first & last letter you will receive from me at Glasbury. But although my last letter to you from this place will be a short one, I feel confident that it will not be one devoid of interest. As you are our Teetotal Father you will no doubt be glad to hear how the principle is progressing with us. Till within a few days of the present time, we have been unsuccesful in making a single convert. For some time past I have been striving to win over a person in this village who has acquired a dreadful notoriety by the manner in which he conducts himself while in a state of intoxication. While in this state his wife & children were obliged to quit the house or run the risk of being murdered by him & while absent from home on business they were generally left in the most distressing anxiety fearing lest his return should apprise the means of their destruction. Last Monday night I went to his house with the Pledge Book in my pocket resolving to make a decided effort to induce him to abstain.

Happily,with the assistance of my Father who fortunately came in at the close, I succeeded. He appears very firm & says that the last week has been the happiest in his life. I got a not (note?) his signature the same night & I expect several more before I leave which will take place next Monday. Thus my Dear Friend does Teetotalism carry away its hope wherever it goes. We are going to remove to Ross (Herefordsh.) 38 miles distance whence I shall correspond with this man. My Father desired me to thank you for the tune book which you so kindly sent him & to say that some are taking it in. He will write to you when at Ross. This note has been written quite in a hurry which you must excuse.

So with our united thanks to you for the 19th Jan 1840 kindness Your Affec & grateful Friend

E. B. Higgins Ju nr.



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Intoxication – it's all the same after 177 years.

Regards
Ron and Eunice