“LITCHFIELD, 12th March, 1798.

Dear Sir:

I find in your letter that you are desirous to know m opinion of the Northern Countries, its citizens,manners, customs, etc.  I flatter myself you will readily pardon the imperfect account given you when you are informed that I have never been without the limits of the retired Litchfield since my arrival.  True, indeed I have been to tow or three assemblies where I had an opportunity of forming some acquaintance with the people; but otherwise I have frequented the citizens but seldom.  The country I have seen but little of.  The eastward of this, about one hundred and fifty miles.  I have experienced the ruggedness of a supernatural country.  The rocks and hills accost the traveller, accustomed to the smooth and level surface of the southern soil, lends in some measure to mar the pleasure that arises from travelling independent of this, the extreme severity of cold, snow, hail and rain, instead of coming in as a palliative to remedy the above inconvenience, adus in a great measure to accumulate the burthen of disagreeableness.  The citizen I find live principally within themselves, not desirous to encourage commutation of articles.  The exercise considerable industry and economy–rigid in the Christian religion, tenacious of their virtue and wise in government–their principles partake much of aristocracy–they call themselves federalists, firm supporters of government, and violent enemies to democracy.

Their manners are extremely unpolished by refined taste–perfectly rude and uncouth when applied to domestic accomplishments and equally as much so in attracting the attention of foreigners.  They are deprived of that easy and frank politeness inviting to sociability.

Their customs partaking much of nation prejudice, have a singular tendency to excite the risible faculties unaccustomed to them. Those that adhere rigidly to the old blue laws of Conn, strictly refrain from tasting the ambrosia of their wife’s lips, kissing their children, walking in the garden, etc., on Sunday.  To detail farther at length I presume would be unnecessary and tire-some to you patience.

I am sincerely your friend & humble serv’t,

NICHOLAS WARE”

Reference Data:

The Collector, Issues 138-147, 1899, page 103