University of Virginia Library

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LETTER LIX.

Your truly welcome letter arrived just as I was sitting
down to dinner. I know not when I have experienced
more heartfelt pleasure than the perusal of it afforded
me. The expression of your grateful affection is the most
acceptable offering that could have been presented to my
heart; nor would I exchange it, my son, for the applause of
the million. Be assured, my dear boy, that I find in your
friendship, and in your worth, ample compensation for the
services that I may have had it in my power to render you.
Like yourself, "I have always considered them as a matter
of course, because I have thought of you as of a" son. Let
me entreat you, therefore, not to purchase at too dear a
price, to us both, the acquisition of professional knowledge.
How I wish you were with me; or that you had one of my
numerous idle horses to exercise upon. This spot is, I believe,
very healthy, and the water remarkably fine and plentiful:
our well having returned to its allegiance. I find myself
better here than any where else. I returned yesterday
from an excursion to Halifax, where the 4th of July was
celebrated without toasts, and no man got "patriotically
drunk," like the upholsterer in the play, "for the good of
his country."

I am very much disappointed that you have not received
the remittance I spoke of through Mr. R. I will ride out
to-morrow, and try and procure you some money, noting
the amount at the foot of this letter. Should I fail, which
I think very improbable, show this letter to Mr. Clay, who
will advance you one hundred and fifty dollars for me for
ten days. Pray ask him to write to me immediately, and
let me know his opinion of the late disclosure of the exsecretary

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Enclosed is a letter which I must beg you to present, in
person, if Mr. W. be in Philadelphia. I hope you will not
give up your jaunt into the country. Take care of your
health, I beseech you, and be particular in every letter in
your account of it.

Have you seen my picture of Mr. Clay? Is it a good
likeness? I found St. George and Tudor both here on my
return from Halifax. They are a great solace to me in my
solitary condition, and both desire their best love to you.
Their inquiries after your health were anxious and pressing.
St. George left your sister and cousin well on Thursday, the
4th. Mrs. Hackley was at Bizarre. Poor Mr. Dillon has
been very ill. Farewell, until to-morrow.