It was only because I expected momently the satisfaction of seeing you at my Quarters, that I denied myself the pleasure of acknowledging your extremely obliging Letter of the 23 of Janry at the instant it came to hand—but since I find by your other favor of the 4th of Feby (which was duly delivered by Col. McMahon on the Evening of the 5th) that you may not perhaps arrive until fourteen days from that date; I cannot delay any longer to thank you for the repeated proofs you have given of your partiallity & attachment to me, & at the same time to assure you how happy I shall be made by your presence, and with how great veneration & esteem I have the honor to be &c.