Note 14 — Chapter III · HUMPHRY AND HIS MOTHER.
Reading edition
“In all the various situations of life in which my mother was placed,” says Dr. John Davy, “she so conducted herself as to gain the regard and good-will of every one. She possessed a most kind and affectionate heart, a pious mind, sound understanding, and perfect integrity. She was devoted to the performance of all her duties, and was remarkably free from all guile and foolish pride. When she became a widow, she was in her thirty-fourth year, with five children, all of whom were still to be educated, excepting Humphry, her eldest son. Her income at this time was about £150 a-year, and it was encumbered with a debt of about £1300, contracted by my father chiefly in consequence of losing speculations in mining. Her good resolutions did not fail her on this trying occasion; she met all her difficulties with courage and prudence.”
Dr. Paris, speaking of Davy’s mother, says: “She was remarkable for the placidity of her temper and for the amiable and benevolent tendency of her disposition.”