My Grandfather who has been for a long time past laid up with the Gout, & who is so still, directs me to inform your Excellency, that he has received several Letters from you, but has not as yet been able to answer them: He hopes however that in a few Days, his Sufferings will be so much diminished, as to permit him to write to you.—

With my best Compliments to Mr. Dana & Mr. Thaxter, I have the honour to be, Dear Sir, Your Excellency’s most obedient & obliged humble Servant