Robert Treat Paine Papers, Volume 1
I write this, expecting to send it by Cato; but not he whose Noble Soul inspired all Rome to glorious Deeds, & whose Regularity of Life gave Laws to that wise People, but one whose soul or Body 'twere difficult to say is blacker. But this Auspicial Crow fam'd of old for ill Boding, at present brings no bad tidings. He leaves behind him that Degree of Health which 'tis hop'd he'll find blooming with you. In our Neighbourhood, lives one whose improved Talents has reduced to the Regularity of his Domesticks a real Crow, who faithfully keeps the Morning Watch & Alarms the Moenials to their dayly duty; & I doubt not this Crow, (as active by Nature as any) when Subjected to the intended Regulation of his Ingenious Supervisor, will perform those feats which If possible exceed the Nature of Crows.
I have been Gay since I see you, & hope you have spent many agreable Moments. I have got some business to write to you abt. but this ill boding Crow has left me no more paper than just to write yr. loving Brother,