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by some of my intimate friends & upon consideration I think it would
be the best plan I could adopt. Yet sir if you are of a different opinion
I will certainly relinquish it & pursue that course which you may
point out.

I noticed sir with, due deference, your salutary advice, for which
receive, the acknowledgement, & the best wishes of

Your grateful freind
Wm H. Thomson

P.S. The only excuse I can plead for
not acknowledging the receipt of your favor
last summer, is, that my diffidice
overcame my duty
Wm H T

Thomas Ruffin Esqr
Raleigh