Harriet Siddons letter to her children, 1832 January 26

              To speak upon any of our wishes in the event of death by Cholera would in the present state of excited feeling on the Subject do harm. I therefore prefer stating one or two things in this way, to holding a Conversation relative on them with any of the family. My affairs are not quite so settled as I should wish but they are in good training and I am sure the gentlemen who have consented to be my Trustees will immediately take active measures for the Comfort and independence of my beloved Children, Had my judgements or knowledge of Mankind seconded my wishes and efforts for their prosperity their lives should have been but as an Swmner's day bright beaming -but I have been sadly deficient in good worldly sense and have made our means "halt for its"--still with care things may come round--Should I be taken from you, my beloved Children -as Thy