I was taken with a tooth-ache about 5. days ago, which brought on a very large & hard swelling of the face, & that produced a fever which left me last night. the swelling has subsided sensibly, but whether it will terminate without suppuration is still uncertain. my hope is that I shall be well enough to recieve my company on New Year’s day. indeed I have never been confined by it to my bed-room. this would not have been worth mentioning to you, but that rumour might magnify it to you as something serious. present my warm affections to mr Randolph & the family and be assured of my unceasing love.