May 19th 96
I am ever ready my Dear Papa to acknowledge the receipt of your letters, but this so unexpected was doubly pleasing. I am much gratified at the prospect you have of visiting Phila in so short a Time, as tis likely I shall see you here before I return. You seem Doubtful whether I do not leave this place with regret. I can positively assure I have at present no object that can excite a desire to be more in one place than another. I am highly gratified at the assurance you give me of the welcome I shall be receiv’d with on my return. Attention and the respect of my friends is the only thing that can reconcile me to Virginia. It is in fact the only thing that attaches me to Phila for any other city would be equally fascinating to young minds that had the same attractions, as this. It is a charming place to dissipate a winter. But in summer a rural life seems more calculated to please even those who are fondest of dissipations. I shou’d love Virginia were its