I have recd. your letter of the 6th. instant. The number relating to my religion addressed to me from diversified quarters, led me long ago to adopt the general rule of declining correspondences on the subject, the rule itself furnishing a convenient answer. I will not however withhold the expression of my sensibility to the friendly interest you take in my welfare here and hereafter; and your exhortations to prepare myself for the event, which my great age and infirm health admonish me cannot be distant, and may happen at any moment.

I have never undertaken to investigate the genealogy of our family. I have taken for granted that most of those in this Country who bear, or have borne its name, are branched from common stems, as was doubtless the case with your Mother.

I tender you Sir, a return of the good wishes expressed for me, and my Wife, in which she joins, as she does in an extension of them to your partner.