Boston April 10th. 1775 Dear brother,

We have recd. your truely fraternal letter by Mr. Cranch & thank you for your kind offers in this time of general distress.

I cannot determine in my own mind what will be best to do at present. It may be that we shall be glad of such a remote place as Taunton to retire to. At present I believe it will more advisable not to go so far.41

Can any business be done in Taunton in the printing or book binding way? If so I could do something to support my family & be less burdensom, but it will take up a great deal of room.

If your Sister & the children were out of town I should have less anxiety & consequently be more likely to conduct my affairs to the best advantage.

You suppose my plans are indigested. Tis true they are so; I should therefore be glad of your advice for my inventive facultys seem to have left me.

If I can get a horse I will endeavour to see you before you go to congress, but as this is uncertain must desire you to procure us a retreat in case we should be obliged to remove. I wish you better health a good Journey & wisdom equal to your important trust. I cannot but believe that the righteous governor of the universe will so over-rule the present commotions, as that we may have reason to say It is good that we have been thus afflicted 1 & restore us to our former happy state. I am Sr. yr. affectionate friend & brother,

J: Greenleaf

P.S. Since I wrote the above I am induced to believe that Taunton must be the retreat, J.G. Way’s & means to remove seems to be the dificulty.

RC ; addressed: “For Robert Treat Paine Esqr. Att Taunton”; on same sheet as Abigail Paine Greenleaf to RTP, same date, see below; endorsed.

1.

Adapted from Psalm 119:71.