I was this day honored with your’s of yesterday. There is nothing I more ardently wish for than Retirement, and Liesure to attend to my Books and papers: but parental Duties not permitting it, I must acquiesce, & thank God for the many Blessings I enjoy. If the Judiciary was on its proper Footing, there is no public Station that I should prefer to the one in which you have placed me—it accords with my Turn of Mind, my Education & my Habits—1

I expect to sail in the Course of a Fortnight, and if my Prayers & Endeavours avail, my absence will not be of long Duration.

The Gentleman to whom your Letter is addressed, is not in Town— To obviate Delay and accidents, I sent it to his Brother, who will doubtless forward it immediately, either by a direct Conveyance or by the Post.2

From the Confidence you repose in me I derive the most pleasing Emotions, and I thank you for them. Life is uncertain— whether I take your Letter with me or leave it here, it would in Case of my Death be inspected by others, who however virtuous, might be indiscreet. After much Reflection, I conclude it will be most prudent to commit it to you; without retaining any Copy or Memorandum except in my Memory, where the numerous proofs of your kind Attention to me are carefully preserved— with perfect Respect Esteem & attachment I am Dear Sir Your oblidged and affectte Servt