When I removed to Mount Vernon I had to purchase new furniture for all the rooms of that extensive building as well as the necessary instruments for conducting the operations of a large farm. The present, is the first year, when I could expect to be repaid by the Crops.

     To enable me to discharge the expences thus incurred, I was compelled in addition to my own mony resources to obtain a loan of between 3 and 4000 $, which Sum is shortly to be paid. I thought at the time I had a right to calculate with a great degree of certainty upon the products of my farm & fishery for paying this Sum when it should become due.

     When I left home, I had reason to apprehend that my wheat was greatly injured by the severity of the winter, and Colo. Blackburn now informs me that I shall make very little of that article, and that the fishery has failed.

     Under these circumstances, it will be impossible for me to discharge the above debt from my own funds, and I should be deeply mortified not to pay it at the appointed day. In this perplexity, I apply to you my dear friend, with a little embarrassment as I should have done to either of my parents. I have had too many proofs of your goodness, and have been too long in the habit of recieving favors from you, to feel a diffidence in asking your assistance upon an occasion like the present. Altho a borrower has no right in general to impose terms, I must nevertheless insist as a condition, that I be permitted to pay you interest when the principal is repaid, which I hope will not long be delayed. I mention this in consequence of your refusal to recieve interest on a former occasion. I will call to see you between 1 & 2 O clock today, and will dine with you, if you are not disengaged— A letter from Mrs W. yesterday, has determined Me to leave Phila. on Saturday. Accept my good friend the best wishes of an affect. & grateful heart.