Scripto | Transcribe Page

[page 1]

Eartham
Monday Feb 11
1782

My dear Sister

Tho I have only a few moments to devote to you I cannot let one Post escape me without hastning [sic] to relieve the apprehensions you so kindly express for the Health of yr poetical Brother

Behold me still alive at yr Service I have indeed been seriously ill but I believe in no great danger of passing the Ferry to Elysium - at least I did not see old Charon before me - Indeed I have been so often on the Edge of the Grave without slipping in that I may perhaps die laughing at those who tell me I am in danger — The subject of death naturally leads to Epitaphs you will think me an obstinate profane sort of a materialistical Blockhead still to oppose my Frame to your Spirit But in truth I cannot acquiesce in the