[Extract]

... I am now to acknowledge yours by post of the 24 March, which contain'd a confirmation of what had been before rumored about, that Boston was in our possession which I am very glad to hear, as at any rate the driving tbe British Army from a place, that they had been in possession for near two-years, and had rendered us stronger the nature of its situation would admit of, must necessarily give the powers of Europe an high opinion ofour Spirit, Strength, & Military abilities ー what these vanquished troops may do next I know not, but am apprihensive that they will throughout the Colonys do every injury they can, to all such Towns, [Citi]es &c as are within reach of the Cannon of there [ships] as to their land forces, even if they are augmented to the full number that Administration expect, I donot see (provided America keeps firmly united) any great things that they can do, all the injury however they can do they will, for instead of any prospect of accomodation, such as America, would, or should consent to, it is plain to me that Great Britain would crush us to attoms if she were able, and if that is the case, I do not see what it is we should hesitate about I assess I could wish to hear that it was determined to set them at defiance and declair for a free Trade, which in all probability might ingage the powers of Europe to push for part of our trade, this might be productive of a quarrel, and furnish the British fleet with better imployment then blocking up our harbours ー . . . My House standing within point Blank Cannon Shott of the Shiping, thought it advisable to remove my family and most valuable efects, we are now living in the House where Mr Ballentine formerly kept store Just below Nomony Ferry-(Baptized Liberty Hall) I am with much respect Dr Sir [&c.]

J. A. Washington