I recd your letter of the 2d inst. in Phila. but was prevented, by a severe indisposition, from answering it from that place, and even now, I can do no more than repeat the undiminished confidence I feel in your ability to execute the work in the best possible manner, and in your fidelity to bring it out in a way most¹ advantageous for the pecuniary interest of the parties concerned consistently with our contract —

I recd whilst in Phila. from Genl Lafayette a part of his original letters to Genl Washington and he promises to forward the residue by the succeeding packet. I will endeavour to transmit the whole to you by some safe conveyance. I am with great respect and esteem Dear Sir yr mo. ob. Servt