I had my Baggage already on board a Vessell for Philadelphia when I found another Opportunity direct for Richmond, which I have embraced and shall sail tomorrow: Perhaps I may return to Philadelphia to embark thence for England; tho’ if a good Opportunity offers direct from Virginia, I shall think it my duty to embrace it in order to return with my Family in the Spring, when I hope my Mariamne will have an Opportunity of testifying her dutifull and affectionate regard for you.

I have disposed of the Books you sent to Aunt Mecom at the trifling price of half a dollar per dozen for Cash, low as this is I thought it better to get this money for her than to return them, especialy as I am inclined to beleive they will thereby become known, and open a sale for Benjamin for a greater quantity on more advantageous terms. I found in my fathers house a Copy of Dr. Priestly’s Optics which you sent to me in 1773 for sale. I supposed that all unsold had been destroyed or carried off in the seige, but I have presumed to take this Copy for myself supposing you would not disapprove of it, particularly as it relates to the Anatomy of the eye, a subject which is very interresting in my present pursuits.

Aunt Mecom is in as good health and Spirits as when I wrote last as are also the other parts of our family. My sudden departure and consequent hurry in changing the destination leaves me only time to add a request to make my best Respects acceptable to all our Friends and to assure you that I remain as ever Your dutifull and affectionate Kinsman