University of Virginia Library

TO JAMES MADISON.

The obstructions to my journey from the Snow,
the River at Fredericksberg, and the unparallelled
badness of the roads, prevented my arrival here
sooner than the evening before last. Harry will be
able to give the particulars of the Journey. I detained
him yesterday in order to give both him &
the horses a little rest after their fatigue; and shall
leave it in some measure to himself, to return either
by way of Fred? or Norman's Ford, according to the
state of the weather & the information he may receive
concerning the latter route.—I am not yet decided
as to the day on which I shall go forward from

this place. Being now convinced from the State of
the weather & the rivers that I could not possibly
reach New York by the day fixed for the meeting of
Congs. and if I could that there will not be a sufficient
number of members for business, I shall think
myself more at liberty to consult my own conveniency.
By waiting a few days I promise myself also
the company of some of my colleagues, particularly
Mr. Page who will I think be sure to call on the General.
Mr. R. B. Lee is the only member who has yet
set out, according to my information. He has gone
on to Alexandr. but will wait I presume for company,
at least untill the weather shall invite him to proceed.

I meet here with no news worth communicating.
The inclosed papers, I recd. at Fredericksbg. and may
be read as a continuation of the intelligence from
New York.

I find myself perfectly well after my ride, & hoping
that this will find my mother in better health,
and the rest of the family still well, I remain Yr. affct.
Son.