Two correspondences were written to Dr. James Macdonald from his brother, John Macdonald. In the first correspondence, John wishes his brother a happy New Year and to let him know that his other brother, Allan had left to take a seat in the Senate. John informs his brother that the well-known banker of Philadelphia, Stephen Gerard had died and the public had much interest in his will.

In the second correspondence, John discusses local political elections in NYC and who was voted into office. John stressed to his brother that if he needed more to fulfill the objectives of his mission, he should take it. He assured his brother that the asylum would remain stable with Dr. Bailey there.