Letter from James Whitworth to his wife, 29 May 1812.

James Whitworth to his wife, HMS PORTIA, Sheerness, 29th May 1812. Sorry he has been so close and not able to see her. They are 50 miles from London. On Tuesday he was in the cutter at Chatham, 20 miles nearer. Sorry she thinks that he is happy. He is not. Pray God our children never taste the bitter cup we have had and at present are drinking. Is on passage to Yarmouth, and then to the North Sea. Working very long hours to repair the ship. How he copes he does not know and cannot make her understand how unhappy he is. Blames his lameness on the food our beef has been in salt perhaps seven years, pork is good, but salty, butter cheap, and bread not good. Only allowed one quart of water per day. Talks of health of his family and friends. Was paid yesterday, his six monthly pay, but is out of waistcoats and handkerchiefs. Mending and washing myself was never what I was used to. Has heard much talk of peace.