Its neatly drawn chirography is faded to a light yellow, but how alive it is with youthful ardor: "I think of you and pray for you very often," it says.

"I hope you have not forgotten me or must I look for another to help me enjoy that happy fortune of which you have heard?
Please tell me truly.

My father has met Doctor Franklin who told of the night he spent at your home and that he thought you were a noble and promising lad.

What a pleasure it was to hear him say that! We are much alarmed by events in America.

My mother and I stand up for Americans, but my father has changed his views since we came down the Mohawk together.