I have troubled your Grandfather with a request on which I beg your assistance, to transmit his answer as soon as will be convenient.

I have deferr’d my voyage for America on account of an indisposition which has so much weaken’d me as to render it very improper to undertake so long a voyage; and I wish to reside some time at Boulogne, in order to enjoy the benefit of bathing in the sea and the company of some agreeable people with whom I am acquainted.

Since the war, orders have been sent to prohibit the continuance of strangers here, longer than twenty four hours, unless they have permission from court. I was unacquainted with this circumstance till my arrival, when I waited on the Commandant who, in the politest manner imaginable, inform’d me he should have no objection to my remaining here, as I was an American and he conciev’d the directions related only to Englishmen, if the Commissaire would consent to it: He even offer’d to write in my favor to the Comte de Vergennes if it should be necessary.

I met with a different reception from the Commissaire, who adhered strictly to the letter of his orders and was not without difficulty prevail’d on, to suffer me to continue here till I could write to Passy. You will therefore do me an infinite favor by forwarding his Excellency’s answer as soon as possible as I shall remain in uncertainty till it arrives. I imagine a letter to the Commandant or a passport for eight or ten weeks would be sufficient. My address is to the care of Mr. Chambers, Merchant B[torn] sur mer.

I have had a letter from my [torn] Walker, informing me of his safe [torn] arrival in London & of his afflic[tion] at finding his father had died [torn] during his absence.

You will have the goo[dness to] excuse the trouble I give [you] believe me with great truth & esteem Your most obedient humble servant