I thank you my dear Mr. Jay, for your kind letters of the 31st. of Jany. & 5th. of Feby.—1 be assurd the advice contain’d in them was as welcome as indeed it was requisite—continue your I beseech you y:r friendly admonitions, for really no one ever required that aid from friendship more than I do in my present circumstances. For am I not prevented from indulging the pleasing prospect of the reunion of my family lest the frowns of disappointment check my innocent expectations? And if I contract my views to my present situation, what consideration can compensate for the loss I suffer by the absence of my friend, & that for God knows how long a time, since who can tell when this unhappy war shall cease. But avaunt painful reflections! Pardon my dear these emotions of discontent. I know they are wrong & discourage as much as possible sentiments of despondency.

Sister Kitty & brother Jack are at Pluckemin.2 they dine to-day at General Knox’s quarters where he has prepared splendid entertainments of Fireworks, Balls &c. We had an invitation from the ladies at Baskenridge to take their house in our way. several reasons induced me to decline making one of the party. I hope Kitty will not be disappointed in her expectation of meeting Brockholst at Pluckemin.

Why enjoin me my dear so frequently to be particular about my health— I remember Papa once told William when at school that he would always take it for granted that he was well, provided William mentioned nothing to the contrary. Will not that be a sufficient assurance likewise for you if I promise to inform you when I am indisposed.

You can’t imagine what satisfaction I receive from the increasing fondness of my little boy who frequently inquires where his papa stays so long & if you never intend to return. in telling him stories & teaching him to spell I deceive many hours that would otherwise linger on unamused & sometimes unemployed.

Mamma & William desire to be remembred to you & yr. Secy. Susan & Judy are at Eliza. Town with Papa. Mr. W—3 urges his suit with great ardour; I fancy J—will be prevailed upon to resign her hand & liberty to his guardianship next autumn. he pleads for that happiness in the spring but prudential reasons incline her to wait ’till fall. Dr. Darby can’t be prevailed upon to part with the boy. I have examined the trunks, but found no moth in them. Adieu my dear; May providence smile upon your endeavour’s for the public weal & reward your constancy. I am most affectionately Your’s—