I recd a letter from chief Justice Marshall a a few days ago, in which he requests me to present to you in his name, a copy of his “history of the Colonies,” a compliment which he thinks due to you “on account of your great attention to the publication of the life of Washington.["] He desires me to state to you, that he has taken the precaution to take out a copy right for the book now sent you, to prevent the interference of others—not to affect you. Should you ever wish to publish an edition as amended, he will most cheerfully assist & aid you by correcting the very few typographical errors which have escaped the vigilance of Mr Small, & making any trifling corrections which he may hereafter suppose necessary.

     I am sorry to have to trouble you so often respecting the 5 Copies of “the Life of Washington” which by our contract you were to deliver me. I should not be importunate upon the subject, if I had not promised them, many years ago, to my 5 nephews, who for this reason refrained from furnishing themselves with the work, and have more than once reminded me of my promise. If you will be so good as to send them <to> me before I leave the City, I will give the necessary orders about sending them. With great regard, I am Dear Sir very sincerely yrs