I cannot suffer myself to suppose, but that you are sufficiently satisfied of my friendship for you, to render a dissertation on that subject unnecessary, I hope when I assign you my reasons for not writing, you will be fully sensible that it has not originated from a want of regard, I have for eight weeks past been confined to my room and the greater part of the time to my bed with a violent billious fever, I have for several days been so well as to ride on horse back and found myself daily recovering, and flattered myself in a little time to have perfectly reestablished my health I have this day been indisposed, which alarms me much, apprehensave of a return of my fever, I am induced however to hope it may proceed from indulging rather too freely, I have so varatious an appetite that I cannot sufficiently restrain myself, but shall retrench in my diet and hope by that means to remove it, I am affraid the incessant fatigues of the last Campaign has impared my constitution I do not think it adapted to encounter the hardships of a Military life, but I feel myself too much interested in the welfare of my Country to discontinue the trifling services I am capable of rendering it, at so critical a juncture You are my Dear Cousin perfectly well acquainted with my sentiments on the subject— I sinceerly thank you for your effectionate advice, and have to lament that circumstances will not admit, of my taking a trip to the Springs, as I am persuaded I should derive the most salutory effects from it— the General left this yesterd. for Albany to visit the Troops at that place, Mrs Washington accompanied him, as far as the Manner of Livingston, where She remains untill his return, which will be in about eight days, and immediately on his return. Mrs Washington commences Her journey for Virginia and I shall accompany Her, which will afford me the unexpected happiness of seeing you, it affords me infinite satisfaction to be inform'd that I am retain'd in the memories of my worthy acquaintance in Philadelphia, I beg you will be so good as to present me in the most respectful tirms to all who think me worthy their inquiries, and express to them the high sence I entertain of their goodness, the near approach of the campaign will hastne my return— but let what will interfere the subject I disclosed to you, must be attended to— being informed Colo. Bassett was expected in the City, I request you will in person deliver the enclosed to him as it is on a subject, I would not wish intrusted to any other hands I have introduced you to him—

if he has not arrived you may by inquiring, of Colo. Saml Griffin know when he is expected, and request him to inform you of his arrival, Majr Clarkson who will deliver you this has taken with him four Cloath Waistcoats and Breeches which He <mutilated> to have deliver'd to you and which you will be pleased to take charge of untill my arrival— writing much effects me, and as I expect seeing you shortly, shall conclude by assuring I am with <mutilated> attachment Your affectionate Cousin