Boston April 10th. 1775 Dear brother,

We have recd. your truely fraternal letter by Mr. Cranch & thank you for your kind offers in this time of general distress.

I cannot determine in my own mind what will be best to do at present. It may be that we shall be glad of such a remote place as Taunton to retire to. At present I believe it will more advisable not to go so far.41

Can any business be done in Taunton in the printing or book binding way? If so I could do something to support my family & be less burdensom, but it will take up a great deal of room.

If your Sister & the children were out of town I should have less anxiety & consequently be more likely to conduct my affairs to the best advantage.

You suppose my plans are indigested. Tis true they are so; I should therefore be glad of your advice for my inventive facultys seem to have left me.

If I can get a horse I will endeavour to see you before you go to congress, but as this is uncertain must desire you to procure us a retreat in case we should be obliged to remove. I wish you better health a good Journey & wisdom equal to your important trust. I cannot but believe that the righteous governor of the universe will so over-rule the present commotions, as that we may have reason to say It is good that we have been thus afflicted 1 & restore us to our former happy state. I am Sr. yr. affectionate friend & brother,

J: Greenleaf

P.S. Since I wrote the above I am induced to believe that Taunton must be the retreat, J.G. Way’s & means to remove seems to be the dificulty.

RC ; addressed: “For Robert Treat Paine Esqr. Att Taunton”; on same sheet as Abigail Paine Greenleaf to RTP, same date, see below; endorsed.

1.

Adapted from Psalm 119:71.

April 10, 1775 Dear brother,

I don’t know what to say to your kind offer. Many Country Gent’lmen last sumer were desirious that we sho’d leave the town and said they wou’d fetch us out when ever we were willing. We can’t see them now but shou’d be glad to find them of the same mind for the charge of transportation is a sufficient reason for our going but little way.42

My love to sister. Love to the children the flutters of my spirits at present prevents writing more but my ardent desires for divine support & direction. Your Sister

A Greenleaf

RC ; on the same sheet as Joseph Greenleaf to RTP, above.