My nephew Jno Fitzgerald about to depart for his military station at Norfolk, & meaning to pay his farewell respects to You, gives me an appertunity of handing You this.   I never left Washington with more regret, worse health and depressd spirits (after a confinement of sickness for three days in a dirty Tavern) than on sunday last, or I would have made my departing congee to You.   I got so dispirited Sir at the vile proceedings of a party in Congress, and at the long delay of the Union packet (which vessel will I hope soon put all things right) that I could scarcely be comforted by the pleasureable society of Your two Countrymen Judges Stewart & Holmes: And who detaild to me while chums in the same bedroom the abominable speech of Mr Gardineer on Saturday.

Looking on the discomfiture to Britain in Her present persuits in Spain & Portugal as of most material moment, at this juncture, to our Country, I should, if any such news has arrivd, be very much gratified by perusing any of Your cast-by English or other news papers; for I am in a solitary nook here, & only recieve my Letters & Papers on every fryday.

My nephew will recieve & forward them by a Servant returning on Wedy. or Thursday.

I cordially wish You every happiness