1813 January 29, Philadelphia, to Brother

              Philadelphia Jan. 29th 1813

My dear Brother

Having a few moments of rest from the tiresome ding dong of business, I have determined to employ them in writing to thee if it is only to make my apology for having remained so long silent. Perhaps then thou wilt understand this apology much better when thou comest thyself to be engaged in the trammels of business. I have frequently upbraided myself for negligence, have as frequently determined to write, and as frequently been prevented. I doubt very much whether I [----] be able to finish this without interruption. How it happens that thou didst not receive the news-papers I know not; they most certainly were sent. I rather suppose some kind neighbour, has taken the liberty of receiving them at the post office to preserve for thee. If I can procure them I shall [----] some more under way with this, hoping with this notice thou wilt be enabled to frustrate the designs of this friendly neighbour.
Thou wilt find them nearly filled with the bloody scenes which are transacting in Europe. Bonaparte confident of success, relying upon the power of his arms and of his fearful [---] has entered into the inhospitable regions of the north late in the summer, and without being at all prepared for the severities of a winter campaign. His intention it is most probable was to find comfortable winter quarters in the rich and extensive city of Moscow. This intention was frustrated by a master piece in the art of war which will reflect eternal honour upon the Russian nation.