During my late Circuit at Phila. I met with Doct. Caldwell, the present editor of the Port folio, who expressed to me an anxious wish to obtain a biographical Memoir of Chief Justice Marshall to insert in one of the members of that work. He requested me to procure such a Sketch for him, which I promised to do if in my power. I thought of you at the time, but was apprehensive that your other engagements might oppose serious Obstacles to your undertaking it. I hope however that this will not be the case, as I know no person who is more capable of doing Justice to the subject. Should it however prove too inconvenient to you, will you do me the favor to sound Mr Wirt on the subject, or any other person who you may think likely to execute the work in a proper manner? I am Dear Sir very sincerely & respectfully yrs