I send you, my dear sir, such remarks as have occurred to the two young men I have consulted about your grandfather. Though I am called by one of them a physician, and appealed to as such, I disclaim all title to knowledge on the subject; being contented only if I have retained enough from what I have read & heard, to help the studies of those who profess these things.

I have nothing to add, but my prayer, (& your own is not more fervent,) that our comon father may live longer to bless us, without feeling the remains of his present merciless disease disturbing the decline of a life always useful, & at this crisis almost necessary, to mankind.

I have taken this inquiry about Dr. F:s health upon myself, and with injunctions to those I have consulted not to mention my application, lest Dr. McMahon might feel hurt at it. I am, my dear sir, always yours affy: & faithfully,