1773 LETTER THOMAS to GOLLOP SHERBORNE POSTED HARE BLOOD STAIN + BROTHER MEDICAL

Cover with entire clearly written letter from Thomas to Gollop in Sherborne Dorset; BRISTOL 1-line handstamp. 

Letter: 28 Oct 1773.  I received your kind present with a letter for which I return you thanks. The letter was not legible being stained with the blood of the hare. I  called at  Dr Majors but did not see your brother. The doctor tells me that he considers great hopes of his recovery that upon the whole he is somewhat better and at times remarkably composed and cheerful. He often laughs very heartily but this is not considered as a very favourable symptom. A young surgeon of my acquaintance sees and converses with him frequently and gives much the same account of him that he appears to him to be better but that his ideas are still very confused and wandering and his recovery doubtful. I am persuaded that he is treated with great humanity and intelligence and under the eye of his servant is permitted to go about without restriction. It would give me infinite pleasure to be messenger of still better news to you and his afflicted friends for at present no one can speak with any degree of certainty and assurance of his case.  In the meantime command me in everything wherein I can be of service and you will find the utmost readiness to oblige from this your humble servant , S. Thomas .. My compliments to Mr and Mrs ?Foot and Mr and Mrs Dryall and all friends.