I wrote to you by the Mail this morning1 to acquaint you with the illness of our dear Father, & it is with sorrow I again write to you, to inform you that his situation is very alarming. Till 11 Oclock this morning he suffered extreme pain from his hand. An Anodyne2 was then given to him, & his hand has been dressed every two hours since with yeast poultice. Since the anodyne he has not seemed to suffer acutely; but there is an entire prostration of strength. He is likewise extremely lethargic, so much so that it is difficult to get him to answer questions, or to take medicine. The inflammation has not extended much since the morning: but a part of it assumes a very unfavourable appearance, & we fear an approaching mortification. The Doctors are giving him wine, porter, & quinine, & have ordered his feet & legs to be rubbed with brandy On the whole Papa’s situation is so critical that I shall despatch Blake with this letter, where although I well Know, the Shock you will feel on reading it. I think it wd: be proper to inform Mr: Munro of Papa’s illness—

Nancy & Maria are as well & as composed as can be expected, but their strength & spirits are supported by the excitement of the moment, & we have been all too actively engaged in ministering to our beloved parent to dwell much on the event which we fear is approaching. I remain dear Peter Your very affectionate Brother

P. M. Thursday morning 4 Oclk: The above was written about 10 Oclk. last night. The stimulants Papa has taken, have had the effect in a great degree of removing his lethargy, & restoring warmth to the extremities; but the inflamation has rather extended. There is a spot on the back of his hand wh the Dr: says is gangrenous, & the extension of the inflammation he thinks rather favourable as it denotes excitement.3