Frederick Jay to John Jay, 18 July 1777

Fish Kill 18 th . July 1777

Dear John

Both your letters are come to hand–€” I have been to Kent & provided Accommodations for the Family in case of a Retreat–€”

I have endeavoured done every thing in my power to get your Books removed, but in vain, not a Wagon or Cart to be hired at any rate–€”the People here being busy in their Harvests–€” I shall speak to Collo. Hughes today for two Continental teams–€”if he has them, I make no doubt he–€™ll be ready to assist us–€” The Peas are not yet come [to] hand–€” The Family as usual; except Peggy who has been [ illegible ] ill with the fever ever since you left us, which is the reason of my not writing to you sooner.

Gen l . Sullivan with 2000 Continental Troops are now encamped in the Town of Fishkill, this affair makes the Old Gentle n imagine that the Enemy must ^ will ^ certainly attempt the River, I could wish he was as easy about the matter as myself–€”

Mr. Platt of Kent informs me that there is a farm of about 160 Acres with a Comfortable House to be sold near him for about 700 £ Lawful–€”would it not be better to purchase it, than have the Family in different Houses, However, had I the money of my own, the farm should be mine–€” The Old Gent n. I believe would soon come into the measure if you was to give him only a hint about it–€” I am Your Aff t . Brother

Fred Jay