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[This text is machine generated and may contain errors.]
Dear Brother,
It would seem by the time that has elapsed since I heard last from you that we had declined all correspondence and that our friendship had subsided into a cold indifference. I hope, however, it is not the case as my inclinations still lean toward you, and I have hopes of hearing from you. I do not at present recollect the date of your last letter but think it is more than two years since I have heard from any of my friends on the Island. If so, you need not wonder that I am desirous to know whether you are dead or living and other matters relating to your welfare. I was in so weakly a state when I was with you last and found the cold weather so disagreeable that I resolved if ever I made another visit to take the warm season for it. I felt a strong inclination to have come in the month of May last, but I had undertaken to build a house which took up my time and attention till August, and as no opportunity has offered since, I have declined it for the present. One of my age must not depend too much on years to come, although the prospect at present, with me, is somewhat flattering, as I have enjoyed a greater degree of health for four months past than I have experienced for some years. Possibly if life and health continue and no obstacles intrude, I may undertake to visit my native country next summer and must entreat you to let me hear from you before that time, otherwise I shall not be certain whether I have any friends there to visit or not.
My situation at present is agreeable. My new house is suited to my fancy and pleasantly situated. We have a fine prospect of the sea in front, a good garden, and a spring of water, and we are about 200 yards from the easternmost boundary of Beaufort town. I live retired and amuse myself with my garden, my writing desk, my books, and a walk to town as fancy desires. I enjoy a competency of the comforts of life with resignation, and I hope with a becoming gratitude to the great Disposer of all good. I know not where your residence may be at present, but supposing you to be at Hempstead, I must request you to remember me in the most friendly manner to Sister Abby and Betsey, to Sister Mary, and all inquiring friends. My wife likewise desires to be remembered.
As ever, your loving brother,
Spring Garden
near Beaufort
Oct. 19th, 1800.
Saml. Leffers