Page:Statement of the attempted rescue of General Lafayette from Olmutz.djvu/46

 procrastinations, and altho’ we had shortly before declined some propositions that had been made us, it was agreed to bring us here, where we were to be delivered into American hands, it having been previously stipulated that we were to leave the German territory within ten days.

But since the health of my wife does not admit of our embarking at this advanced season we design to settle during the winter in Danish territory—probably in Holstein—which although a German province belongs to the King of Denmark, a friend of the Republic, and a very independantindependent [sic] power.

My health is better than I expected and although I am still week and exhausted vet I hope soon to recuperate. My two friends, and especially Pucy, are much more affected than myself, but I trust they will soon recover. Of our servants, one is in a condition that causes anxiety, the other has suffered a good deal, but is improving. My daughters are doing tolerably well. My wife has for the last fifteen months heen in a lamentable condition. Fresh air and exercise, perhaps, would have benefitted her, but these were denied her. She is very much emaciated and weak.

The malady that formerly affected the arm has now settled in one of the legs, fortunately the inner parts have remained free from it, the extremeties only being affected. All the doctors agree that it would be madness to cross the ocean before she is somewhat improved, and therefore we intend tu establish a common hospital and devote ourselves to our recuperation.

You see, my dear friend, I set you the example of being very circumstantial, and I hope you will not conceal from me the slightest thing that concerns my hero and benefactor.

I need not tell you that the joy I feel at my liberty has heen lessened by the news, that troubles have arisen between the Republic and the United States. The exact circumstances are entirely unknown to me, but I am sure that nothing can be more impolitic for both parties, and that it is my warmest wish to see everything amicably adjusted. It ought never to have happened. I hope all will be well. Would to God I could be of any assistance. Farewell, my dear Huger. My regards to all our friends in your section of the United States.