Your letter of November 1st duly came to hand as did your two former letters;1 though from the peculiarily of my situation, at one time, & my hurry at another, they were not acknowleged.

I did however, as Mr. Ames2 communicated to you, inform him, that nothing then was in my power. The same is the case now; and the rules I prescribe myself with regard to the future will only permit me to assure you that I shall bear your application in remembrance. Propriety requires that I should keep myself in a situation to weigh every circumstance at the moment & to act as shall then appear for the public interest

I remain with esteem   Sir   Your Obed ser