Phila. Ap. 18. 1797
My dearest friend
Upon the Receipt of yours of the 9th.
[Abigail to John, 09 April 1797]
Yesterday I sent off Brisler immediately. He is to take Water at N.Y. for R. Island. Whether he will get to Quincy before your departure is uncertain.
We shall suffer cruelly here for Want of him, But must do the best We can.
As to sending Horses and Coachman from this Place to New York. I fear it will be bad Economy. My Horses are so young that it will hurt them: besides how to get the Harness on?
I am pleased with all your Arrangements. I know you have Perplexities enough. And I have my share here, public and private.
You must get my Brother to board Billings I believe if you can. I shall long regret that I cannot pursue my Plan of fencing my Place with Wall. But my present situation calls for every Moment and every Thought. I shall give up Billings with great Regret.
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The Mail for Quincy is made up but once a Week I have discovered, so I shall send my Letters to Boston in future.
My Eyes will totally fail me in six months. I shall be obliged to resign for Want of sight, if I go on as I begin. The Number of Papers to read is prodigious. My Eyes complain most bitterly.
My Love & Duty to all.
It is uncertain whether this will reach you before you set out.
Affectionately J.A.
