While almost none of Margaret's letters have survived, she saved many of John's letters.
John longs to know what is happening at home and in his town.
He tries to micromanage the household from the other side of the world and discusses gifts he is purchasing and money he is sending home.
His letters are filled with the every day details of life at sea. He comments on visiting with other Freeporters he encounters in the various ports where his ships stop.
