I avail myself of the opportunity by this days mail, to inform you of the great regret I have felt for the last 3 weeks, in being unable to undertake my Journey to washington, on account of a severe indisposition, with which I was this summer attacked, & from which I am not yet entirely relieved.   Nothing but my inability to ride would have prevented my arrival at Washington by the first of november as I promised. But I still set out to-morrow, & hope to see you in 20 days.

I have expected Capt. Lewis at my House every day for a week past; but now think it probable he has passed along. I congratulate you most sincerely on his safe return, and on the success, with which your undertaking, so important like Country, has thro’ him been completely crowned.

Accept assurances of the most sincere regard & attachment of Dear sir Your ob Sr.