Collections : [University of Michigan William L. Clements Library]

Personal letter to his wife commenting on the birth of their son and his desire for her to join him in Charlestown. Notes household difficulties without her. Discusses merchant affairs, such as the shipment of goods to Jamaica, purchasing a plantation, and other financial matters. "My Dear I am come into a Country where great improvem[en]t may be made of Money, & if I had yo'r Fortune in my Hands or 1/2 or 1/3 of it, I cou'd make more Advantage of it here (w'th God's Blessing) in a few Years than my Lord chancellor can do w'th putting it out at Interest whilst we live." Acknowledges difficulties of living in the southern colonies. Briefly mentions the sale of wine in South Carolina. Addressed to Burrell Massingberd.

Two letters: One abt ye change of ye Sabbath: The other abt ye beginning of it by rev. Joseph Lord of Chatham." Biblical study regarding the distinction between setting aside the "Seventh day" vs. the "Sabbath." Includes a story from October 1697 of a waylaid ship of pious men that were rescued from starvation through prayer, being accompanied by dolphins which they caught every day except on the Sabbath. Describes Biblical arguments for observing the Sabbath and the parameters for its observation, arguing for its beginning the evening of the seventh day. Includes three pages of mathematical computations and a note about the Earth's diameter.

Family news and plans to travel to York. Details on plan for building a house and stable. Fatherly spiritual advice and encouragement to persist in spiritual diligence.