A friend of mine has requested of me to procure for him a plain, but good silver watch, with a second hand, and the works capped to protect them from dust. I have no acquaintance in Philadelphia who can execute this commission so understandingly as yourself, and on the ground of former acquaintance I take the liberty of asking this favor of you. I think that for common purposes the excentric second hand is best, because it does not add a single wheel to the works and leaves the watch more easy to repair by country workmen. my friend does not wish her to cost more than 70. Dollars, & as much less as will procure a good one. if this can be promptly procured, any letter from Philadelphia informing me of it, & of the price, if not later than the 17th. inst. will find me here, & I will remit the money by return of post. if later than the 17th. I must ask the favor of you to address the information to mr John Barnes of Georgetown who does my pecuniary business in my absence & he will immediately remit it. in the mean time the watch may remain with you until some person can be found coming here who will bring it in his pocket & deliver it to me if here, or to mr Barnes in my absence. I hope I do not presume too much on your friendship in asking this favor of you in behalf of my friend, & I pray you to accept my salutations & assurances of great esteem.