This is the third time1 I have written to my love since her departure. I continue to enjoy good health and my spirits are as good as they can be in her absence. But I find as I grow older her presence becomes more necessary to me. In proportion as I discover the worthlessness of other pursuits, the value of my Eliza and of domestic happiness rises in my estimation.

Angelica2 & her family are all well except that Mr. Church’s3 gout is not intirely gone. Peggy4 has been as well as usual. Yesterday however she complained of a little gout in her hand. Cornelia5 is well.

Tell your father that our affairs continue to mend & that there is every prospect that we shall not put on the French Yoke. Adieu My very dear wife.

Yrs. most affecty