Dear Brother,

It would seem by the time that has elapsed since I heard last from you that we had declined all correspondence and that our friendship had subsided into a cold indifference. I hope however it is not the case as my inclination still lean toward you and I have hopes of hearing from you.

I do not at present recollect the date of your last letter but think it is more than two years since I have heard from any of my friends on the Island, if so you need not wonder that I am desirous to know whether you are dead or living and other matters relating to your welfare.

I was in so weakly a state when I was with you last and found the cold weather so disagreeable that I resolved if ever I made you another visit to take the warm season for it and felt a strong inclination to have gone in the month of May last but I had undertaken to build a house which took up my time and attention till August and as no opportunity has offered since I have declined it for the present, and one of my age must not depend so much on years to come altho` the prospect at present with me is somewhat flattering as I have enjoyed a greater degree of health for 4 months past than I have experienced for some years past, possibly if life and health continues and no obstacle intrudes I may undertake to visit my native country the next summer, and must entreat you to let me hear from you before that time otherwise I shall not be certain whether I have any friends there to visit or not.

My situation at present is agreeable, my new house is calculated to my fancy and pleasantly situated, we have a fine prospect of the Sea, in front have a good garden and spring of water and are about 200 yards from the eastern most boundary of Beaufort town. I live retired and amuse myself with my garden, my writing desk, my books and a walk to town as fancy directs, and enjoy a (.....?....) of the comforts of life with resignation, and I hope with a becoming gratitude to the great disposes of all good.

I know not where your residence may be at present but supposing you to be at Hempstead must request you to remember me in the most friendly manner to sisters Abby and Betsy, to sister Mary and all inquiring friends.