I wrote you a letter about eight or ten days ago by Mr Purviance, but since he intends to spend two or three weeks in Baltimore before he goes to Philadelphia, there is no doubt but you will receive this first, as it will be sent by a waggoner, who papa told me should set off on monday next to carry you either a load of tobacco or hemp: in the above mentioned letter I gave you an account of our happiness on the arrival of the Bushfield family, their stay here, and our intended visit to Prospect Hill: but my principle motive was to introduce to you the young Gentleman that conveys it, who from our long intimacy, and his good nature is rendered very dear to me: you will I make no doubt experience him an agreeable companion.

     Last thursday (according to promise) papa sent over horses for Augustine and myself; now it is needless for me to attempt to describe our joy when we got over; but what was a very great addition to it, papa the day following being at the Harewood sale, receiv'd your very affectionate letter that you wrote whilst at Lancaster; I no sooner heard it was from my Dear Brother, than that satisfaction struck me which is a stranger to my breast unless upon occasions of the like nature. We all anxious to hear the purport, and gathering about papa, begged he would read it aloud; upon hearing you were well, no person could form the least idea of our happiness, unless it be one who is possessed of that tender & affectionate heart which you are master of.

     About two hours ago having cut one of my hands in two or three places almost to the bone with a sharp rasor, renders me incapable of proceeding for every line I write is with the greatest pain, therefore hope you will excuse the shortness of my letter & impute it to the cut which I have received and not to any want of brotherly affection.  I am my dear Brother your very sincere & affectionate Friend