Philadelphia, March 17, 1782.
Sir: I would spend an evening with you with much pleasure were it in my power; but, I had fixed upon Wednesday to leave the City, and if the Secretary at War, with whom I have business, should arrive in time, I still shall do it.
Tuesday I am under a particular engagement, and the Evening of every Monday I meet the Financier and some other public Officers at his Office on general matters; how far this meeting can be dispensed with, Mr. Morris, from his knowledge of the business that would come before it, can best determine. His inclination, as it may be signified to you, shall govern me; and I will meet him at your quarters, or his office, as you may agree.
My sentiments with respect to the evacuation of Charles Town, accords with yours; and I believe this Post will be given up, notwithstanding the disaster which the Brest Fleet has met with; unless G: Britain can do more than acquire a momentary superiority in the West Indies and on this Coast. I am etc.
P.S. Company prevented me from writing sooner. 5
[Note:From a photostat of the original kindly furnished by Dr. A. S. W. Rosenbach, of New York City. ]