letter to Thomas Martin, 16 August 1769

TO THE REVEREND THOMAS MARTIN.

NASSAU HALL, August 16, 1769.

REV. SIR, I am not a little affected at hearing of your misfortune, but cannot but hope the cure may be so far accomplished as to render your journey not inconvenient. Your kind advice and friendly cautions are a favor that shall be always gratefully remembered; and I must beg leave to assure you that my happiness, which you and your brother so ardently wish for, will be greatly augmented by both your enjoyments of the like blessing.

I have been as particular to my father as I thought necessary for this time, as I send him an account of the institution, &c., &c., and of the college, wrote by Mr. Blair, the gentleman formerly elected President of this place. You will likewise find two pamphlets entitled "Britannia's Intercession for John Wilkes," &c., which, if you have not seen it, perhaps may divert you.

I am perfectly pleased with my present situation; and the prospect before me of three years' confinement, however terrible it may sound, has nothing in it, but what will be greatly alleviated by the advantages I hope to derive from it.

The near approach of examination occasions a surprising application to study on all sides, and I think it very fortunate that I entered college immediately after my arrival. Though I believe there will not be the least danger of my getting Jta Irish hint, as they call it, yet it will make my studies somewhat easier. I have by that means read over more than half Horace and made myself pretty well acquainted with prosody, both which will be almost neglected the two succeeding years.

The very large packet off for Carolina I am afraid will be incommodious to your brother on so long a journey, to whom I desire my compliments may be presented; and conclude with my earnest request for a continuance of both your friendships, and sincere wishes for your recovery, and an agreeable journey to your whole company.

I am, sir, your obliged friend and obedient serv.t.