My dearest Friend

I reachd this city on Sunday Evening, and have waited one day to rest myself and Horses. My health is but feeble and a little over fatigue deprives me of my rest. I shall sit off this morning, but cannot make more than 25 or 30 miles a day. I shall endeavour to reach Washington on Saturday if the weather will permit. It would be an ease to the horses if [Curry?] could come half way to Baltimore and take me in the Chariot. Thomas accompanies me. I received your Letter when I arrived here which was the first line I have got since you left me, tho I have regularly followd you in your stages and heard of your Health and good spirits with pleasure. I have twice heard from Brother Cranch, who writes me that my dear Sister and family are getting better, tho slowly. Still new cases arise in the neighbourhood.

I met upon my jouney at [Sax's?] the polite Letter of the Generals and had no reason to make the exclamation of "Oh that mine Enemy had written a Book." A Book it is as wise and judicious as the former precious confessions and will produce upon the public mind an effect exactly the reverse of what was intended.

My Girls I hope arrived safe. You will not make a Congress on Monday. Very few of our Eastern Members have yet come on.

With the hopes of meeting you in health at the time named I am your ever affectionate

Page 2

Pop-up small image
Pop-up large image

This letter was found in the drawer of a writing table about a year after I came into the President's house. It was immediately re-sealed, and has only awaited an occasion of being sent back. Th: J.
[The preceding text was added in the handwriting of Thomas Jefferson]

[Envelope -- see page image]

[Endorsement -- see page image]