I received your letter of the 5th inst. by Mr. Hilliard, in which you mentioned your sufferings last winter by imagining and foreboding that some Sickness or misfortune had befallen me. It may not be amiss to allow ourselves beforehand the enjoyment of some expected pleasure, the expectation being often the greatest part of it, but it is not so well to afflict ourselves with apprehensions of misfortunes that may never arrive. Death, however is sure to come to us all, and mine cannot now be far off, being in my 83d year; but that may be to me no misfortune, and I shall take care to make it as small a one to you, as possible. This family is all well, and join in love to you and yours. Inclosed is a letter to Mr. Oliver Smith, who on your presenting it will pay you twenty dollars, which please to accept from your loving brother