Accept my thanks for your obliging Letter of the 27 Ult. which I should have answered last post, but was then much indisposed—unfortunately I have not had a well Day since my arrival for I had no sooner recovered of a Dysentery, than a sore throat succeeded. I suspect that abby’s Elopemt. was not resolved upon in a sober moment. it was a measure for which I cannot conceive of a motive. I had promised to manumit her on our Return to america, provided she behaved properly in the mean Time—amidst her Faults, she has several good Qualities, & I wish to see her happy and contented on own account as well as our’s—have you heard any Tidings of her? I presume you have, as I do not apprehend it possible for her to elude the Vigilance of the Police—she should be punished, tho’ not rigourously—too much Indulgence & improper Company have injured her—it is a Pity—

Is there any thing that I can do for you or your good grandfather while I stay here—if there is, tell me—with my best Compls. to him, I am Dear Sir your afft. & hble. servt.