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Hallifax C H. Virginia 24th August 1817 Dear Sir I arrived at this place on the 20th inst to attend my eldest son, a boy of about ten years, who lies dangerously ill with a fever of the most obstinate Kind. He was taken sick on the 13th inst more than 100 miles south of this, on his way to Washington, but his anxiety to get on to Burkingham where he expected to meet me, induced him to travel on until his disease became so alarming as to arrest his further advance. His situation is extremely critical. Should he recover it is probable that I shall be confined here ten days or fortnight longer. On Friday my hopes of his speedy recovery were strong. The evening blasted them, and during the whole of yesterday, my fears predominated. At present there is some reason to hope that his disease is about to yield to the vigorous treatment which he has undergone. The day before I set out for this place I rec'd your favor of the 17th inst. The change you have