accept my thanks for your polite Invitation, to your Anniversary Dinner at Faneuil Hall on the 7th. of this Month—nothing would give me greater pleasure than to meet a Society which I have held in veneration from my earliest youth, and to whom I Attribute—in a great Degree that Valour Military Skill Science and discipline which has contributed much to the present and prosperity and glory of the United States—But if I should not appear at your Festival—which I ardently desire—My uncommon Age and Various infirmities must be the Opology— / of your most Respectful humble Servant / and fellow Citizen