Since we parted I have been so much & so long indisposed as that (except short Letters to Mrs. Jay) I have denied myself the Pleasure of writing to my Friends. The Kindness you have shewn us both, has nevertheless not been forgotten, nor has my Disposition to acknowledge and be influenced by it in the least abated.

We have lately had a Report here that you was very ill with the Stone, and some have said that you intended to seek Relief from an operation. This Report has alarmed your Friends, and I am anxious to know how far it may be well founded. It would give me sincere Satisfaction to have it contradicted under your own Hand—

I decline saying any thing about politics, for obvious Reasons—the public Papers afford you the Means of forming a Judgment of them especially as your long Experience & knowledge of this Country enable you to see further than ordinary Observers.

There are many in this Country who speeke of you with great Respect. The honest Whig Club drink your Health very affectionately—there are others who like you as little as the Eagle did the Cat,2 and probably for the same Reasons. When we meet we will talk these Matters over with less Reserve than I can write— Present my affectionate Compliments to your two Grandsons3—and believe me to be with great Esteem & Regard Dear Sir Your obliged & obt. Servt