Passy, 25 April, 1778.
Monsieur Chaumont has just informed me of a vessel bound to Boston, but
I am reduced to such a moment of time that I can only inform you that I
am well, and inclose a few lines from Johnny to let you know that he is
so. I have ordered the things you desired to be sent you, but I will not
yet say by what conveyance, for fear of accidents.
If human nature could be made happy by anything that can please the eye,
the ear, the taste, or any other sense, or passion, or fancy, this
country would be the region for happiness. But if my country were at
peace, I should be happier among the rocks and shades of Penn's hill;
and would cheerfully exchange all the elegance, magnificence, and
sublimity of Europe for the simplicity of Braintree and Weymouth.
To tell you the truth, I admire the ladies here. Don't be jealous. They
are handsome and very well educated. Their accomplishments are
exceedingly brilliant, and their knowledge of letters and arts exceeds
that of the English ladies, I believe.
Tell Mrs. Warren that I shall write her a letter, as she desired, and
let her know some of my reflections in this country. My venerable
colleague[190] enjoys a privilege here that is much to be envied. Being
seventy years of age, the ladies not only allow him to embrace them as
often as he pleases, but they are perpetually embracing him. I told him
yesterday I would write this to America.