Being a perfect Stranger to you, I had need apologize for the liberty I take in addressing you: indeed I am afraid it is scarcely warrantable, and I must entirely rely upon your goodness to excuse me.

I have left England, my native Country, because that with the greatest industry and oeconomy, I could scarcely get my living even as a single man; and with the small capital I am possess’d of, could not have engag’d in any other business in that Country with the least rational probability of success. I have brought over with me 500 Sterling, which is lodg’d in the bank of New York, to which place I had several recommendations; and among the rest a letter from the Revd. Dr. Price, (with whom I have had the honor of being acquainted several years,) to Mr. John Jay. Dr. Price likewise gave me a letter to the late Governor Trumbull of Connecticut, and also a general Testimonial of my character and views; which with your leave, I will take the liberty of shewing you. My intention is to endeavor to settle myself in the Farming business, in some of the interior parts of the Country. It is upon this subject that I am in much want of information; and being sensible, Sir, that no one is more capable of giving me every necessary intelligence, I shall esteem it a particular obligation, if you will advise me concerning it, and will give me leave to wait upon you, whenever you can spare me half an hour, with the least inconvenience. I am Honor’d Sir, with the greatest Respect Your very humble Servant