Letter 1: 19 May 1786. James Irving to Mary Irving in Liverpool.

My Dear Lassy

I have just found time to withdraw from the Bustle a few minutes to address myself to you. The wind is at present rather contrary which oblidges us to keep the Pilot a little longer, otherwise I should have said no more, but everything in Nature has its use so has the foul wind, in giving me this sweet opportunity, to tell you that never till now did I know your Worth. Oh! for a volley of these endearing embraces, that I have so often received, I could at this moment almost smother you with caresses. I feel as if I was dismembered or deficient of a part essential to my existence. My sweet lassy[?] show no person this letter, it is not fit to be seen, but it is at the same time the [deleted] feelings of a heart solely and enthusiastically yours. May God Almighty out of his inexhaustable benificence support and provide for you and the friends I have obtained through you till I am enabled by his blessing to see you again in the Cordial Wish of him who lives only for you.

10 o'clock

May the 19th JI

My Compliments to all the Gentlemen particularly Amoss, Mr. Hippius's family etc. etc.

Letter 2: 13 August 1786. James Irving in West Africa to Mary Irvingin Liverpool.

New Callabar 13th August 1786

My Dearest Mary

The Ship Ally. Dodson f[…] this place sails tomorrow and I most chearfully embrace the Opportunity of informing you, that I retain (through the Assistance and protection of divine providence) my wonted health and Contentment. The […] Venus from Liverpool Arrived here a Week ago and I had the Mortification to find that you had Neglected the Opportunity. I readily excused you when I heard that the Vulture6 sailed the same day but had called at Lisbon. She is not yet Arrived but when she does, I flatter myself that what she will bring me will sufficiently compensate for my disappointment, but still my Girl you should not have neglected or overlooked any Opportunity.