I have just recd a letter from one of my daughters requesting me to ask Judge Washington if it is true that he has interdicted all visits to Mount Vernon by water. It seems that Miss Silsbie and some other young ladies, daughters of members of congress, being desirous befor they go home to pay their respects at the tomb of their country's Father, had formed a party with their young friends of Washington, for the purpose and had proposed for their convenience to take one of the small steam boats— when they were stopped by the information of this interdiction. They offer their parole for good behavior &c. But if there be a general prohibition I do not myself see how an exception can be made without giving offence or letting in all evils the prohibition was intended to prevent— Perhaps a permit under your sign manual to Miss West and her party may avoid the evils— But I do not ask it—I merely suggest it—and beg you to be assured that your refusal will not give me an instants' pain— because I know something would be done, if it ought to be done. I am affectly for Washington yrs truly & respectfully