a of a braintree, and the affectionate father of her children. >> braintree, july 9, 1777. i sit down to write you this post and from my present feelings i shall be able to write for some time if i should do well. i have been very unwell for this past week with some complaints that have been new to me, though i hope not dangerous. i was last night taken with a shaking fit, and am very apprehensive that a life was lost. as i have no reason today to think otherwise. what may be the consequences to me, heaven only knows. i would not have you too much alarmed. i keep up some spirit yet, though i would have you prepared for anything that may happen. >> philadelphia, july 10, 1777. my mind is again anxious. my heart in pain for my dearest friend. oh, that i could be near to say a few kind words, or show a few kind of looks or do a few kind actions. oh, that i could take from my dearest a share of her distress or relieve her of the whole. before this shall reach you, i hope you will be happy in the embraces of a daughter, as fair and good and and virtuous as the mother. or if it i