1811 January 11, Philadelphia, to Bill

              January 11th 1811

Dear Bill

Mother not being very well she desires me to write to thee, and I being in no great humour for writing just now shall cut the matter as short as possible. Glad thee examined the date of mother's last letter thee would have perceived the reason of her not acknowledgeing the receipt of thine, they both having been written on the same day. She sends thee thy gloves and pantaloons and a little something to pull sleds wherewithal. Grandmother sends her love to thee, she has not been very well these days past but is better.  All well besides. 

 Francis

Feeling something better, I would add a little to thy Brothers short communication.  He had forgot thy complaint that my letter was not dated.  I expected Henry S.D. would hand it to thee on the 26th of last year, the next day after it was written; but was not done.  I desired him to tell thee how it was, and likewise that we had found the Elements of Morality -- but he forgot both.  C. is willing to wait till thee comes for the other book.  I cannot help thinking that the perusal of thy last letter was of use to her; I fancied I could percieve thee caught a little of the spirit of it, for she has been more dutiful since in her behaviour to me.  I mention it for thy encouragement.  I suppose thou will hardly believe, what is nevertheless true -- that is, the great good even children may do by their example; especially the elder set of children in