Boston, 25 August, 1776.
I sent Johnny[154] last evening to the post-office for letters. He soon
returned, and pulling one from under his gown gave it me. The young
rogue, smiling and watching mamma's countenance, draws out another and
then another, highly gratified to think he had so many presents to
bestow.
I took the liberty of sending my compliments to General Lincoln, and
asking him some questions which you proposed to me, but which I was
totally unable to answer,[155] and he has promised a particular reply to
them.
As to provisions, there is no scarcity. 'Tis true they are high, but
that is more owing to the advanced price of labor than the scarcity.
English goods of every kind are not purchasable, at least by me. They
are extravagantly high. West India goods articles are very high, all
except sugars, which have fallen half since I came into town. Our New
England rum is four shillings per gallon; molasses the same price; loaf
sugar two and fourpence; cotton-wool four shillings per pound; sheep's
wool two shillings; flax one and sixpence. In short, one hundred pounds
two years ago would purchase more than two will now.
House rent in this town is very low. Some of the best and genteelest
houses rent for twenty pounds a year. Ben Hallowell's has been offered
for ten, and Mr. Chardon's for thirteen pounds six shillings and eight
pence.
The privateer _Independence_, which sailed from Plymouth about three
weeks ago, has taken a Jamaica man laden with sugars, and sent her into
Marblehead last Saturday. I hear the _Defence_ has taken another. I
think we make a fine haul of prizes.
Colonel Quincy desires me to ask you whether you have received a letter
from him; he wrote you some time ago.
I like Dr. Franklin's device for a seal. It is such a one as will please
most; at least it will be most agreeable to the spirit of New
England.[156]
We have not any news here--anxiously waiting the event, and in daily
expectation of hearing tidings from New York. Heaven grant they may be
glorious for our country and countrymen. Then will I glory in being an
American. Ever, Ever yours,