Having been prevented from going to Washington as I had contemplated early in the Spring, I delivered the Phial containing the Strawberry Seeds from Mr. Mazzei; to a freind, who promised to deliver it with a few lines, in which I took the liberty to mention his name.—He was unfortunately taken ill at Baltimore & has only a few days since returned it to me on his passage thro’ this City for Europe.

I now hasten to forward this Phial by the bearer Mr. John Kighley my particular freind, who will be punctual in delivering it. Tho I fear it will reach you very late, for sowing this Season & I apprehend I shall be most severely reprimanded by Signor Filippo in his mild way when he hears of what he will call my neglect on this occasion—

I am most respectfully with Sincere esteem Sir Your most obedient humble Servant