John Laurens to Martha Manning Laurens 9 November 1777 by John Laurens Lyrics

The time allowed me for writing to several Friends in different parts of the world, obliges me to be laconic in each Letter yours claims of right the greatest number of moments but will necessarily be very short compared with what I wish to send you. At this period if you have received two Letters written in the last month and one in this, you will see in all of them a Repetition of what I said to you in England, and soon after my return to Carolina upon thе subject of your voyage to America. In two latе Letters to your Father I likewise dwelt upon this cause of our anxiety. Perhaps by the time this reaches you some prospect may open which was undiscovered at the time of our parting. My only hopes then were founded in your having an opportunity of accompanying some respectable Carolina Family to your own Country. I fear by the delay of those whom I had principally in view that some unexpected obstacles to their return have presented themselves. However great our unhappiness be, in consequence of our Separation, I can never consent my dearest love, that you should expose yourself to all the dangers which now attend a Sea Voyage in a common Vessel and without the guardianship of a particular Friend. Reflect for a moment into how much misery we might both be plunged by your captivity, and say dear Girl whether it will not be better to endure the pain of absence patiently, ‘till some eligible opportunity offer I shall not be able to write to our good Friend your Father. You will be so kind as to make amends for it by expressions of Respect and Friendship from me to him assure your dear mother and Sisters of my Love this will give you satisfaction by informing you that I am well and as happy as I can be at so great a distance from you Madam and that with ardent wishes for our reunion I am unalterably yours
J Laurens