Farewell party; ducks and quail!

Monday, December 8th, 1823 – Paid Prince’s bill, and settled account with Mr Kennedy 

9th – Expecting to sail next morning I had my Pigeons, Ducks and Quail on board, and it being my last day I spent it with Dr Hosack. At his house was a large party of friends who kept mirth up till a late hour in the evening. In the course of the day General Lewis called, having come to town for the season; he has kindly invited me to visit him should I not sail. 

I love the sound of this send-off party for Douglas. He has clearly endeared himself to many in the USA, excepting Mr Prince of course. I suspect drink may have been taken too! 

And what is it with the pigeons, ducks and quail? They have never been mentioned before. Are they new varieties DD is bringing home? That may well be the case, as they (the pigeons at least) are a gift from Clinton.

To Philadelphia

Wednesday, October 29th, 1823 – Waited on Mr Kennedy [who he?] and obtained some money of him [an advance on the account of the Horticultural Society, I guess?], then set out for Philadelphia. Got to New Brunswick at 4 o’clock in the afternoon and then by stage to Trenton, which I reached at 9 at night

Thursday, October 30th, 1823 – Left Trenton at 5 o’clock in the morning [another early start, in the dark] and got to Burlington at 9 [a.m., I think]. Went to Mr Smith and proceeded to take up the trees. In the evening called on W Coxe. Esq., [who he had met on his previous trip to Philadelphia], whom I am sorry to say I found very sick, so ill that he was by his medical attendant considered in danger. I am sorry; I am afraid he will not be able to get out before I leave.

October 31st – Finished taking up [the trees] and saw the trees packed by 11 o’clock. …….These I carried to the tavern and packed, and at 6 o’clock in the evening I went in steamboat to Philadelphia, which place I gained by 9 at night. The night was cold and rainy, with slight frost in the morning.