I receiv’d your favor of dec. 9th and am happy to find you are so much recovered as to be able to continue the History of your own life; independent of the political information to be gain’d, it gives me some pleasure to learn that you propose to add those precepts which should influence common Industry in Life.
I have made many enquiries of my brother and others for the best English Encyclopedia, and have sent you as per inclosed invoice, and included in S. V.s bill of Lading. Chambers Dictionary as corrected by Dr. Reis. My brother begs to inform you that he knew of no best English Encyclopedia. There was one from Scotland that not only availed itself of Dr. Reis Dictionary, but will be with several additions, including biography &c which would have made it more acceptable to you. There were only two Volumes printed, and the remaining 14 Volumes would have come out in parts, periodically, and would not be compleated under near two Years. The Volumes that have appeared, are well spoken of in point of merit. Fearful that the delay would be too long for your young Student, who was in the actual Course of his Studies, I have sent you that which was more compleat. From my Situation at our Library I have procured the Books on easier Terms than at a Booksellers, and shall reimburse myself by Mrs. Hewson’s order on Messrs. Ayton & Co. for the Amount of £11.5s.10d. The Young Eagle Kerr is the first Ship. You will please deliver to my brother the several books which are pack’d up with the Dictionary.
I am happy to see that the Prejudices and Habits arising from the war are wearing away. And that they are giving place to industry and Sobriety. I trust that the good Effects of them will tend greatly to strengthen the principles and measures of the new Confederation. You will learn from other Quarters that the Revolutions forming in many parts of Europe in the opinions of Governors and governed, and all of them tending to general improvements of manner[s?] and wiser Systems.
Our Ladies read your letter with Pleasure, and join with me in wishing you Health, ease and Happiness. Believe me with great Respect, Dear Sir Your most obedient humble Servant