
          Troy. Feb 27th (Sunday evening) 1820

Dear friend,

You have just right to complain
that I have [added: not] , by writing, acknowledged my obligation
to you; though I am the greatest sufferer.

Since I return from Hudson I have given a
pretty full course at our Lyceum on Chemistry
and Geology. And I have advanced a fortnight
in my course in Natural [added: Philosophy] including Astronomy
with transparent paintings. I have
something over 120 in my class, about
70 of whom are ladies.

This would not have occupied all my
time; but I am preparing a rd.[revised?] Ed. of my
Geology. It will reach 250 pages 12mo with 
two copper plates. I intend to make a good
book of it. I believe I have more materials
for it, than my other person. I have finished
an elementary gramma of geology, which is,
at best new, in plan and execution. It will
fill about 60 pages.Printing will commence 
in about ten days, unless I visit you first.
The river seems to be breaking up; and if it
does, and vessels begin to run, I now think I 
shall call and quarrel with you about geol.[geology]
fo exactly six days. You know we can 
have many a squabble in that time. But
if the weather is cold, so that you expect no
Troy sloops, you must write me immediately.

        