I have lately recovered from a severe attack of fever, which confined me to my bed for ten days; & I propose to visit Philada, tomorrow, where I shall see my old friend S. Gerard, & procure from him some of the genuine Maldonado Pumpkin seed, for yourself. I prefer his, because he has taken more pains in the cultivation of this fine vegetable, & has kept it far separated from any other of the same species. He has preserved an ample supply for you, particularly. I presume I may transmit a sufficient quantity, within your Frank, by mail, & with your permission, will enclose you some for our mutual friend Genl Cocke, to whom I must beg the favor of you to transmit to the proper Post-Office, with the necessary directions, the enclosed letter. I would not give you this trouble, but I do not recollect the office to which to direct it; and tho’ I took a Memorm of it, by accident, I have mis-laid it.

We have lost our amiable and estimable friend Mr Burwell, and I sincerely sympathise, with you, on the melancholy event, which I am sure you must feel very sensibly. I had expected to meet him, next winter, in Congress, to which the people have spontaneously elected me, tho’ much against my own wishes. I shall go there, with more reluctance, than when at your earnest solicitation, I consented to serve, to support you & your administration. My numerous & still increasing family now require all my time & exertions.

With every sentiment of respect, affection & gratitude