After a careful examination of the circumstances which attended, as well as others which preceded the fire at this place, it is obvious that it was the work of an incendiary. But I know as little who to suspect at this moment, as when I first recieved the information. There is not amongst my domestics one, to whom I can trace it by any possible motive of vengeance, or whose conduct would in any manner warrant me in selecting him as the guilty person. The exertions of all to extinguish the fire were great & nearly equal, and when I view the ravages which were made before the flame was overcome, I can only wonder how they were at last successful! Time may perhaps unfold this misterious transaction; I shall not feel entirely at ease until some discovery is made.

I found Mrs Washington's health greatly impaired by the alarm to which she had been exposed, and which continued undiminished at the time of my return. She is now in a great measure relieved from her fears, and will I trust soon recover her Strength & Spirits.

Present me very respectfully to yr family and believe me to be with great & sincere esteem Yr mo. ob. Sert