Boston Decr. 1st. 1774 Dear Sr.,

I heartily congratulate you on your return to your Family; your being unwell accounts for the long silence from Taunton. I sincerely wish you a speedy restoration to health.1 You are wanted at Cambridge where you have been constantly expected ever since the session. I cannot inform you what they are about, for they are enjoyned Secarcey.

As to foreign news (that which relates to us) the reports are so various & change as they pass from mouth to mouth so that ’tis impossible to find the right. I have been so busy that I have not been abroad, nor read the 20paper yet, but have sent it by the bearer, that you may take the news from the fountain. I will inform Mr. Cushing of your ill health immediately.

We are in as good health as usual, my love to both Sisters, yr. children & my nabby whom I long to see. The bearer cannot wait for more therefore I must conclude. Yr. loving brother

Jos. Greenleaf

P.S. If I can do you any favor in yr. confinement pray let me know it.

RC ; addressed: “To Robt. Treat Paine Esqr. att Taunton favr. Mr. ”; endorsed.

1.

RTP fell ill on Nov. 25 and developed a high fever and vomiting. Not until Dec. 8 was he able to note in his diary: “rode out in Chaise after 14 days confinement.” He did not venture into Boston until Jan. 10, 1775 (RTP diary).