Help with reading and a bit of background . . .

[Ebor337]

Is there any reason why the situation isn't just as it's written on the census?  A wealthy, unmarried farmer employs a widow to run his household and her sons as farm workers - she needed a home and a job, he needed a housekeeper. 

Monica

No reason whatsoever I suppose - and i suppose it is the likliest story and entirely plausible. It's just a shame i can't seem to find the connection between them . . .

Can anyone read where John Matthews was born? It looks like "St James' for Susan?? This may help . . . ?

[PrueM]

Birthplace for John Matthews looks to be Norfolk, Pulham...and Suffolk, St James looks right for Susan 

[Shropshire Lass]

There's two possible deaths for John, Senior -

John Thurston, d. Sep qr 1838, Wangford, 13 - 317.
John Thurston, d. Dec qr 1839, Sudbury, 12 - 295.

Monica