Box 2

Enclosing a plat of the Charles Drayton II's property (Camden County, Georgia). Plat not found though there are sketches on reverse.

Sent care of G. C. Swift (Falmouth, Massachusetts), wishing him well on his stay at Falmouth; encouraging him "to acquire information on every subject that presents itself"; to see paintings in Boston; to keep a diary, etc.

General worries and advice about her son at Falmouth, more particularly, encouraging him to visit large northern cities; make associations; avoid "wild scheme[s]"; spelling corrections.

Warning his son not to become "a common sailor" as he has suggested; he is reminded: "it is one of our duties to endeavour to maintain the rank of life in which it has been the will of heaven to place us: & we should rather look up above that line than below."

Desiring to know his precise location; dissuading him from becoming a sailor; the sale of "Sam" to Governor Robert Hayne; possible sale of "Juba" and her child for $1000; financial hardships; election day - Mary's prediction that "the States Rights party will carry it"; promises not to stand in his way regarding his future.

Regarding her concern that Charles had become a sailor; James going to school in New York; chastising Charles for his poor spelling of short words; complaining about a "gentlemen in our society" who is given to lying; wishing to hear of Charles' plans.

Inquiring about Charles' stay in Falmouth; reminding him to employ his manners; updates on the family.

Writing to Charles at Falmouth, regarding setting off fireworks with friends; July 4th celebrations; Drayton horses; parties attended.

Sent care of G. C. Swift, writing to Charles at Falmouth, warning him not to be an inconvenience to his hosts; correcting his spelling; imploring him to use his dictionary.

Regarding James going North to school and John falling ill; a proposed "East India Voyage" has fallen through; slavery: "The great slave question as started in England if realized, will transfer a great bearing on the United States ... already does great though secret anxiety cloud our atmosphere!"; warning to be mindful of possible slave emancipation as he considers his future as a planter; James getting into a fight with other boys.