The mules sold so much higher than your estimate, that I did not concieve myself authorized by your letter to purchase for you. The first class went above 400$ a pair, the 2d $150 or more, and the whole averaged as high as $139— The amount of the whole sales exceeded $8000, of which the mules alone came to more than $6000. The hires of about 19 of Mrs French's negroes amounted to 7 or 800$ a year during her life.

     We have been able to sell only one tract of land— this is the difficult run tract, at £2000, 1/3 pay[a]b[l]e the 20th of this month, of which when paid, you will have notice, with permission to draw for it. The mony belonging to you in Mr Lewis's hands is paid to Genl Spotswood.

     As there is a miserable prospect of selling the lands on the eastern waters, we have determined to offer them at public sale in March, under the expectation that those which may not be purchased by others, will be bought by the legatees at a generous price. This measure, should it succeed will enable us to hasten a final settlement of our official duties. The Western lands ought to be surveyed & divided in the Spring, if the legatees can agree upon the mode.

     As you say nothing about your own health I flatter myself your old companion has not & will not pay you a visit this winter—with best wishes for your health I am my dear Sir Very Affectionately yrs