April 24. 1796
My Dearest Friend
I have received in your favour of 15
[Abigail to John, 15 April 1796]
. an entertaining Account of Virtogern and Rowena.
Our Waggon is mired, to the Axletree in a Bog, and unable to advance or retreat. The People only can draw it out: but whether it will be backwards or forwards I know not. The Horses upon Portland still employed to draw up Hill are so equally matched with the Load and those before that the Wheels can roll neither up nor down. Pegg'd like Ariel in a rifted Oak, We can only Sprawl in the Air with our Arms and leggs, like [illegible] Ariel, and fill the Atmosphere with our Cries and Clamours.
I forgot to mention, the young Mens Land. I must have it. I always understood there were but Eleven Acres. The Price is exorbitant. But pray the Dr. to make the best bargain he can and finish the Business. I mean the Land of the young Haydens.
The charming Letter from our son I return. I know very well all his Meaning. He will see Mankind in his Youth.
I am, with Attachment and Wishes and Affections unalterable,
J. A.
Mrs A
turn over
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Yours of the 18
[Abigail to John, 18 April 1796]
reached me in four days. i.e. on the 22d.
I know your Difficulties. I like Billings and wish him engaged. Copeland I am indifferent about. He is not a Man to my Mind. I mean to do very little at farming. I will let out On shares all I have next Year.
I see no Prospect of leaving this City before the fifth or Sixth of June. Obstinacy must be resisted with rational firmness and steadiness.
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[Endorsement -- see page image]
