[addressed c/o Littleton Tazewell, Williamsburg, Virginia] John had promised to write Sam fully upon his return but his thumb is troublesome. Asks if Sam will be studying mathematics? John is trying to find a math tutor for himself but can't find a capable one in town. He feels envious of the advantage Sam is taking of the embargo.

[addressed c/o Littleton Tazewell] Enclosed is a receipt for two kegs of Dutch herrings, one each for the Bishop and Mrs. Tazewell. The Thespians have performed once. John is in charge of the committee to distribute food. Has not accepted appointment as a Brigade Inspector, but all call him Major.

Sam's letter to John caused him to spend much time with the dictionary. Sam is lucky to be in school. It is too late for Myer, but Fred shall have every advantage. McQuire is Fred's tutor. William Nivison gave John letters relating to Nivison's duel. The dispute was foolish.

Moses is going to Williamsburg. John thinks Sam is wrong in his suspicions about Bassett in his letter of the 19th. John is on friendly terms with him. "Papa will however set this to right." If Sam stays on in Williamsburg after the examination John will write to him.

John has sent the chest by the schooner Union. Sam needs to retrieve it as soon as she arrives. "Tell Myer the boat Petersburg now runs and as there is no Stephen on board, he better look after his betters himself every Wednesday."

Scope and Contents

Myer's letter contained one from "the Senior" at Albany. Nothing further from Montreal. John didn't have time to speak to Higgens about the Sarah Ann which is involved in a law suit. Augusta sends a bundle for Louisa. There is much talk against Henop.

John will ask General Taylor at the first opportunity, but doesn't think Taylor can be in Richmond in November. He will argue Florida claims case in DC then. Attached are a letter and account from Higgins which deal with the ship owned by Phillips & Magrath of Fredericksburg.

Scope and Contents

John notes what Sam said in his last about Fredericksburg. "I have no confidence in Phillips. He will sell the vessel, but not pay. He wishes to get the false papers out of view." John will see "the General" today about the insurance case. Sam's bedding was damaged.

Scope and Contents

John wrote Sam on December 22 by Capron, who with Herron, Moran, Stephen Harris "and a host" went up to try for contracts. Wants Sam to find out who gets the contract for the grocery. If they're not from Norfolk, perhaps MM&Sons can get the agency.

[date approximate] John has Sam's letters of December 23 and 24th. The jury found in Myer's favor, but Leigh & Copeland are trying to set it aside. Something is up with the US Bank here. Wheeler is unfit as a teller. Crawford of Philadelphia may replace him. Ask Etting why not Moses?

Scope and Contents

[Possibly 1823] John warns Sam that "You must calculate that in any new country and almost any other, efforts will be made to keep you down. The great art is to rise without letting others envy it." Says "The General" is looking at the papers.

[probably 1823/24] John notes Sam's remarks on New Orleans. John has been fixed on the place for 3 years. He was packed to go in 1821 when Abram's death stopped him. Then he had to help Fred, and family commitments kept him in Norfolk.

This series contains correspondence.