BurrillJames18200412_001

Andover April 12th 1820

My Dear Father

As I was desired by you to write you
once A week I now take up my pen to obey your command
which I consider as an amusement rather than a task.
My class is advanced to XV section of the sextus liber in
Caesar's Commentaries on the Belli Gallico. We have very
good ammusmentt [amusement] when out of school by playing ball. I have
got a cross gun and ball. The number of scholars here is about
130. Mr Bartlet of Newburyport is building another building
on the right [side?] of the chapel like the other one. They are making
a fence round the Academy building out houses and making
many improvements. Your affectionate and dutful [dutiful] son

James A Burrill

I have just recieved [received] your kind and affect. [affectionate] letter of the
6th this morning. I am sorry that you are unwell
for I am afraid that my conduct has troubled you and
made you sick. but be assured My Dear Father