To Thomas Jefferson from Samuel Smith, 10 February 1806
Senate Chambers, 10th. Feby. 1806
Dr Sir/
My Brother has gone this Morning to Baltimore, he has taken with him his Eldest Son, not quite recovered from a Violent Cold, and Swelling in his throat. he will find his youngest Son dead, (he died on Saturday night.) and his only Daughter, extremely Ill, without a hope left of her Recovery. a Dropsy in the Brain is Suspected. her head has been Shaved & Blisters were applied—His Distress & that of his amiable Wife, will Require all his fortitude to meet.—his Return will therefore be very uncertain—I have the honor to be with truth
your friend & Servt
S. Smith
DLC: Papers of Thomas Jefferson.