[M^r James Bryson Richmond Virginia 1796] [(Single)] [Received from State Dept. Rec^d. Oct 24. Ans^d. —] [Canvas — of — of Williamsburg Consent — of — of Williamsburg State — of [undecipherable] —] [2 9] Richmond Sept^r 24^th 1796 Sir/ I am very sorry to inform you that ever since I arrived here (which was on the fifth day after my departure) I have been confined by an inflamation in one of my heels; owing to my wearing a new pair of Boots, which I had wore one day before I set out. I am exceedingly unhappy that I am in this Situation; more particularly on the account of my haveing left the Horse [undecipherable] [undecipherable] with [undecipherable] with M^r Grant @ 3/6 P Day — As I found him more fit for the Draft than the Saddle, I thought best not to fatigue him too much. I shall return as it is possible for me to travel, without danger of bringing on a Mortification in my heel, which I have often dreaded. I hope Sir, this may convince you that negligence has not been the occasion of my Delay. I am Sir, Your Mo^st Ob^t Serv^t Samuel Hodgson Esq^r Ja^s [undecipherable]