Hi Helen There are a number of possibilities the usual time of service in the army was ten years about this time we had a few problems with the colonies in North America so a ten year trip may not be out of the question. There were three marriages in Oldbury and Didmarton between 1763 and 1777 was John previously married perhaps he had more children. Ruth may have had medical problems after the first 3 births. If you have not already done so a look at Ann WITCHELLS will of Tresham 1894 might mention John and family. Probably the poorlaw index for Hawkesbury , Oldbury on the Hill and Sopworth may be usefull there is an entry for John WHICHELL from Sherston / Hawkesbury 1832 and one for William WITCHELL Hawkesbury / Sopworth 1817 under Hawkesbury Index. regards Robert Visit my web pages at http://www.btinternet.com/~ra.millard/index.htm