On my return from Fauquier a few days past I received the copy of a letter addressed to you by Mr Sparks respecting the removal of the papers of General Washington to Boston. As a decision on that proposition rests exclusively with yourself my first intention was not to intrude any opinion of mine upon you. But on looking over the letter again I find there is a reference in it to me, & I have supposed it possible that you might expect to hear from me on the subject. This induces me to say that from my knowledge of the papers I am convinced that the work he contemplates cannot be executed on the plan he proposes without a constant recurrence to the papers.

I hope your health continues to improve. You were so visibly better at the conclusion of our last term than you were at the commencement as to justify this hope. With the most sincere wish that it may be realized I am dear Sir Yours truly