Samuel rejoices that Thornton made it safely to Boston, and he is glad that Thornton met up with George, whom Samuel promises to comfort in his times of misfortune. He talks about George's problems concerning certain negotiations in which George "wished to have the Loan of my Name." He mentions Eliza's educational expenses [see 197c and 197e]. He resumes the topic of George's problems which arise from a particular bond, the dealings with which put Samuel in a bad situation both in reputation and in monetary concerns. Samuel feels George should make amends. George also gave a bond of 40,000 to a Mr. Shotwell for two townships of land, but George later sold it causing Shotwell to become angered. Samuel talks about his healthy recovery at the Springs and his recent expenditures.
In reference to Thornton's recent visit, Samuel renders his thanks for his son's filial affection, as well as thanks to God for his return to good health. While on the mend, Samuel visited Judge Green and his wife where he was received with perfect hospitality and cordiality.
Samuel is overly anxious to hear from his son, and he wonders if his copious amount of correspondence is not being delivered to Thornton. Samuel plans to return to Paris next week. He recently heard from Sally, Eliza, George and the rest of the family.
Thornton's cousin has just arrived at the Springs, and Samuel is worried because he has not heard from Thornton for some time. David Avery had just visited Samuel at the Springs and said he had seen Thornton in good health two weeks earlier in Boston. Samuel needs money, saying he is "utterly destitute."
Samuel informs Thornton of his safe return to the Springs, and that his health is slowly improving. Samuel talks about his health and the possibility of his completing his journal.
Samuel writes to his son that the healing Springs have vastly improved his health. He entreats Thornton to pray for his health, because Samuel wishes to devote the rest of his life to God. He says that the medicinal waters of the Springs attract a geographically diverse group of people, coming from all parts of the country as well as from Europe. P.S. Sally's stay with Mr. and Mrs. Parson might be drawing too long, and she might be overstaying her welcome.
Samuel has not heard from Thornton since they last saw each other at the Mohawk River. He mentions his recurring monetary problems, specifically the 100 dollars he paid for Eliza's education [see 197c]. Mrs. B[Ingham?] is threatening Samuel with a legal suit for 850 dollars.
Samuel has sent a lengthy letter yesterday by Mr. Waldo or Judge Lincoln to be handed to Thornton by Mr. Hedge [see 198a]. Mr. Hedge feels he did not benefit from the healing waters and is too low spirited, in Samuel's opinion.
Samuel requests Thornton to forward all bills to Ballstown Springs. Concerning the 100 dollars for Eliza's education at Bethlehem, Samuel is upset because George had promised to take care of it. Samuel also tells Thornton that George's misfortunes have distressed him, but he has turned to the Lord for support.
In his last letter Samuel had asked Ralph to have Eli or Joel Bristol bring a horse for Ralph's aunt. However, she now plans to take the stage with General Cortland to Whitestown.
Samuel received a gray mare which is in bad condition and consequently out of commission for a while. In his eyes it is a great disappointment and an unnecessary expense. Samuel tells his nephew that Mr. Hart's sister just arrived. Samuel wishes to hear from Ralph at least once a week and hopes Ralph will make a short visit to the Springs soon. He conveys his love to Allen and hopes to send him some money to help with the business.
Samuel reminds Ralph to send his (Samuel's) silver inlaid stirrups or better yet bring them in person. He tells Ralph that the Springs could do wonders for his health and informs him that he still hopes to send Ralph a little pecuniary support. Samuel wants to know if Ralph has had an interview with Mr. Lothrop yet. He also talks at length about fattening up the hogs! P.S. If safe conveyance is available, send the Academy Papers at once.
Samuel advises Ralph on the best way to send the Academy papers in order that they arrive as soon as possible. His son Thornton (John Thornton Kirkland) is sending Samuel several sermons, and he wishes Ralph to unearth a few of Samuel's sermons to send back to Thornton.