I was just enjoying the pleasing prospect of a permanent return of health when a few days since viz on the 30th ult. I was attacked in my sleep and entirely insensible until after being bled—I had certainly improved greatly in my strength as I was able since my return from the Springs to do what I have not done for years amuse myself on foot with a gun & walk for hours without more than common fatigue—This last attack without previous indisposition or warning has dissipated my airy castle of returning health and renders my prospects for the future more gloomy than heretofore—

I heard from Francis by last mail—affairs at Columbia were at the date of his letter viz the 19th of November in a gloomy situation—The Students had been guilty of personal disrespect to Doctr Cooper—I am almost so selfish as to wish their conduct would disgust him with his present situation and drive him to the University of Virginia. He will be sure in Virginia of meeting on all occasions that respect and veneration which her citizens young and old uniformly bestow on the first Talents combined with the purest principles—

From some cause to me unknown my grapes almost entirely failed during the last dry season—Vines which for several years before had been plentiful bearers literally perished—If you should send your cart before it is too late for cutting slips without injury to the vine I shall be much obliged to you if you would send me 15 or 20 slips of your purple grapes which you brought from France.

Present me affectionately to the family & accept yourself my sincere wishes for your health & happiness.