Desirous as I am of returning you my thanks for the very honorable proof you have given me of your esteem;1 I cannot wish that this may find you in Port. I am not under the least apprehensions of their2 succeeding for any time against us personally; but I am afraid they will injure the public and introduce a system of faction and corruption which it will be very difficult to change. For me the best thing they can do is to force me back to my profession, in which I am sure of being independent; and if I had been at liberty I shoud have accompanied you most surely. There is nothing I woud more willingly give them, than my place; and I know there are various ways of serving 95one's Country, nor is there any among them more perillous and painful than this. I am sacrifising my time, with my interest and opportunities in my own Country, to a service that certainly deserves every sacrifise we can make, but which shoud reward it at least with confidence and thanks. However I am clear that a firm and prudent conduct on the part of the real friends to their Country, will defeat a faction which, as I apprehend, has deeper designs than is imagind. You will find M. de la Luzerne and the Secretary of the Embassy most worthy and agreable men. Remember me to all our friends at Boston and Congress and be assured I am, dear Sir, Yr. sincere friend and very Humbl. Servt.

Inclos'd is four letters which you was So obliging, as to tell Me you would take care of; the Letter for the Governor1 I will be thankfull to you, to deliver him, Should you have an opportunity Soon after your Arrival.

The other three, to be put into the post office. I most Sincerely wish you, a Safe and happy passage to America, and there be the happy instrument of Relieving us, from Much Mischief that Must follow, a continuanc of our preasent planns in this Country.

I have Mentioned to the Governor My intention of Staying here, untill I hear from My Freinds, and that, if any litle thing Should offer, wherein I can Render My Country any Service in this or any other Country that I shall be happy to have the Opportunity, of doing it; Should any thing therefore offer, I will beg leave to Solicit your Friendship Joined to his; and I beg leave to Assure You that it Shall be My Study to Merit your attention.