Elsewhere on this site is a letter written by Jane Ledyard's brother, Joseph Strawbridge, to his mother from China, dated December 1802. Here is another letter from Joseph to his mother, this one written from Philadelphia, when the ship was preparing to sail to China. This letter, which I transcribed from the original, is shorter and more mundane, but still quite interesting. A few illegible words are omitted.

[Letter to Mrs. Strawbridge, Wilmington, from Joseph Strawbridge]

Philadelphia May 18th, 1802

Dear Mother,
Since I last wrote you, every thing progressed as usual, & I believe we shall be ready in ten or twelve days, the weather for some days has kept us back a good deal, but looks likely to clear.

I doubt very much whether I can get down before we sail, but at all events shall spend a day or two then with the Family .
Perhaps you had better send me out a list of what Cloaths of all kinds you have & are preparing that I may seek if any thing is wanted.

James has just delivered me your letter. I am happy to learn of the good Health of the Family. We shall endeavor to render Master James stay as agreeable as possible. Janes letter was delivered to the great satisfaction of Master James who is at present a little indisposed. With regard to a sound Jackett any common------ check or blue Nankeen for use, if you have a pattern to cut it by. It will be necessary to have some dark pattern for one or two waistcoats, my blk silk will do & you can make up any coarse thing like it you please. Cloathing of all kinds can be had cheap & plenty in Canton & I will only take as much as will barely suffice out. If you have time you can collect some little things for me without going to much---------, such as a few pickles, preserves, a few Cranberries put up nicely is I am told a great rarity.

Our friends here are all well. I have just had a letter from George, who writes they have commenced their studies with great spirit. Some persons advise me to take a bed instead of a mattrass, which if I should determine on, shall borrow George, as he wont use it this Summer.

Cousin T. [?] Gilpin mentioned his being present at the speaking & gives me[?] some credit for his success, which is highly gratifying. The children may be assured, their Improvement does not pass unnoticed or will be unrewarded.
My love to the Family. Let me hear from You. I am Dear Mother Your aff son JS
I find --- James has just gone & send this by post.