In my letter by Jerry I forgot to request you to send by the waggon the barrel of biscuit also, as before spring it will become mouldy probably and spoilt.

With respect to the canal, I look to the grinding plaister as the thing which is to produce us crops and improve our lands. and that therefore we should think it a lasting compensation for shortening a particular crop somewhat. yet I would not sacrifice a crop, but divide the work.

I think the canal will employ your whole force about a fortnight. the dam some time in addition. give what time you can spare withou[t] too much injury, and if it does not finish it, lay it over till you have more time. work on it, for example, one week i[n the?] first instance, and see what progress that makes, and form your estimate1 on that. whatever you decide on for the best in your own judgment, I shall be satisfied with: this letter will be in Lynchburg on the 27th in time I hope before Jerry’s departure. affectionately yours.