Portsmouth July 19.th 1807
My dearest wife
I send you only one line, to let you
know that I am in perfect health. Both Nor-
folk & Portsmouth
enjoy an uncommon share
of that first of blessings
Yesterday I was at the most
sumptuous feast ever known in this country.
It was given to all the troops who came from
a distance. Near 700 persons sat down to
dinner; and the effusions of joy, patriotism &
gratitude, which were poured forth by the people
of Norfolk
, surpassed all description.
I am just about to visit M.rs Decatur
for the first time. I have seldom less than three
invitations every day to dinner; but I take
care to preserve sobriety & temperance.
Adieu my darling [Note] for the
present.
Yos eternally
P. R.
We have no prospect
of any thing to do in
the military way.
Let me know when the Governor
intends to recal us. I hope most ardently to see
you soon.