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Dear Brother,

I waited a long time for a conveyance by water but as none offered, I sent three letters by post-one directed to John Van Nostrand, one to Mr. Hart, and one to yourself with a letter to Sam enclosed to save expense. If these letters are not come to hand, I presume they may be found in the Post Office. An unexpected opportunity now offering, I gladly embrace it, fearing the other letters might miscarry.

I have nothing new to relate; my family and friends here are much in the situation I found them in at my return home last fall. There are great complaints of dull times since the peace in Europe. Our vessels, which used the West Indies trade and have for a long time past been accustomed to make good voyages and bring home considerable quantities of cash, bring nothing of note from the English islands but rum, for which there is a very dull sale, and from the Cape, bills on France, which is worse.

I have had pretty good success in selling my goods which I brought home with me, but as my assortment is broken, I have thought, if life and health permit, and I meet with an opportunity in a good vessel, to take a trip to New York this summer in order to get a new supply and make a short visit. But as this is altogether uncertain, I would be glad to hear from you and hope you will not neglect to write. If you lodge letters in New York with some careful hand, there are frequent opportunities in the summer season to send them to Newbern, where they may be put into the Post Office and are sure to come to hand as the mail comes from Newbern to Beaufort once a fortnight.

I would be very glad of a letter from Saml. that I may see how he improves in writing. My wife and daughters are in tolerable health and desire to be remembered to you and, in conjunction with myself, to all relations and friends. I am, as ever, your loving brother.

Saml. Leffers.

Beaufort 27th May 1802.