I recd yesterday yours of the 25th. I wish I could give you a useful answer But my memory affords me no means for it I can say nothing either as to the time of Col. Thorntons entering the military Service or his continuance in it nor can I refer you to any source of information to wch application could be made with a prospect of success. My acquaintance with Col. T. tho’ of the most cordial kind, was not attended with opportunities of much intercourse between us, and I was for that reason less in the way of knowing the particular steps in his career: He always possessed my personl esteem, as he did that of all to whom his patriotic & social merits were known.

We learn with much pleasure that Mrs. Winston & your daughters, as well as yourself are in good health and your son has our best wishes for the establishmt. of his. We offer our joint & affect. regards for you all.