Richard Henry Lee to Samuel Purviance, Jr.

I had heared of my loss before yours of the 15th came to hand, and I regret it the more as Cards, and good ones especially, are not easy to be got. Those that you speak of, I had interested myself with the Workman at Wilmington to have of the best kind. I was in hopes that by a strict enquiry after them, they might yet be found, and spoke to your brother about having such enquiry made. At all events, Cards are so much wanted in my family, that I must beg the favor of you to procure for me a good pair of Cotton and one of Wool against I pass thro Baltimore in my way to Virginia, which will be in about 8 or 10 days; as my ill state of health will not admit of my staying long here. You will oblige me Sir by sending my Cask, that was left with you for me in June last, to Potomack river by the first good opportunity, and direct it to be landed at the house of George Turberville esquire, about 20 miles from the mouth of Potomac on the South side, and about 3 miles above the mouth of Yeocomico. I would prefer Mr. Crump to any other person for carrying the Cask, but I would not loose a good opportunity that might offer sooner. The affair of the Spanish fleet that you mention, we had heared of some time ago, and at the same time, that since the death of the King of Portugal, all differences were made up between the two Courts, and orders sent to South America to restore all things there to quiet. We hear nothing from Philadelphia, except that the Inhabitants are in great distress for provisions. Both Armies are still, and both have lately received reenforcements. A considerable part of Gen. Gate's army will shortly join Gen. Washington.

I am dear Sir your most obedient and very humble servant,

Richard Henry Lee