[James M^cHenry Sec^y of War [undecipherable]] War office 17 June 1796 My dear Sir Indeed I am truly sorry at the situation in which you found Mrs Murray on your return. I did hint that the [undecipherable] indisposed before leaving this city; but I cannot but ascribe her getting worse to [undecipherable] absence from her, seeing as I can very well conceive how your presence might have added to her consolation. You and I have long thought of your wife the best friend in the world. I am not therefore surprised at your alarm, and hope that this very circumstance has served to increase it more than any real danger she may be exposed to. It is not easy to determine whether, the sea voyage or going to the Springs, ought to be preferred. You might prefer the former. This being the case I would give it a trial; because if the springs should not have [undecipherable], she might resort, and you also, that her own [undecipherable] had been neglected. I send you annexed two of your acts respecting western land. The operation of these acts will be to raise the value of the land warrants. I believe they have already had that effect. I put your Worcester friend in a way of getting a clue to his case. I sent him to the brokers to ascertain the selling price of deferred three and six per cents. This obtained he had only to divide the fund into three component parts, and buy the current price for each with or without an interest as he could make his bargain. Things have varied but little since you left us. The Flying fish has made a capture as you have seen by the papers, and Mr Adet has given a severe answer as you have not seen by the papers. I have not got into my House and I miss you very much. Yours affectionately James McHenry [arithmetic calculations in pounds, shillings, and pence notation, including references to 14 Nov^r 95 and 1 Mar 95, and the names M^cGist and M^rs [undecipherable]]