To John Adams from Benjamin Lincoln

The same reasons which prevented my having the honour of dining with you yesterday now exist, and deny me the pleasure of doing it to day—From the confidence I have that your wishes are that every officer should be at his post, when his duties as such manifestly require it I persuade my self that you will not charge me with with neglect in these instances.—

Believe me my dear sir in / Assurances that I am with the / highest consideration

your / Affectionate friend & most / Obedient servant—