Boston, 13 November, 1779.
My dearest Friend,--I have just sent Mr. Thaxter, Johnny, and Stevens,
with the things, on board. I shall go with Charles at four o'clock. It
is now three. I have seen the captain and the navy board, etc. It is
proposed to sail to-morrow; perhaps, however, it may not be till next
day.[207] Mr. Dana[208] will come on board at nine to-morrow. Mr.
Hancock has sent me a card to invite me to go on board with him in the
castle barge. Don't make many words of this. Your aunt has given me a
barrel of cranberries. I shall make a good use of them, I hope.
Let me entreat you to keep up your spirits and throw off cares as much
as possible. Love to Abby and Tommy. We shall yet be happy, I hope, and
pray, and I don't doubt it. I shall have vexations enough, as usual. You
will have anxiety and tenderness enough, as usual. Pray strive not to
have too much. I will write by every opportunity I can get.
Yours ever, ever yours,