Your Letter of the 20th anticipated one which I had intended to address to you on the same Subject. I have been a good deal surprised that so little has been said upon it in the federal prints, and concluded either that the success of the measure was too generally doubted by the well informed men of the federal party to induce them to make the experiment, or that it was deemed unwise to stir in the business until the public Sentiment could be more certainly ascertained. I am however decidedly of Opinion that were success more doubtful than I think it is, still the effort would be prudent. The greatest difficulty will probably be to fix upon a character who will unite the eastern & southern federalists. It is obvious that a difference of opinion upon a point so all important must prove fatal. The Southern people have probably turned their eyes upon general Pinckney who had before been nominated and voted for; the northern & eastern upon Mr King or some other gentleman residing in those states. It will be very unfortunate if state partialities should on such an occasion throw difficulties in our way. An understanding however upon this point should take place before the person is nominated, and the time is rapidly approaching when the character intended to be supported should be announced.

     Would it not be proper to learn as soon as possible the Sentiments of influential men in the southern & eastern States upon this Subject, & who so proper to conduct this business as yourself & some other federalists of your City?

     When something is determined upon, will you have the goodness to drop me a line? With very great regard & esteem I am Dear Sir sincerely & respectfully yrs