Your letter of the 21st has just reached me. I am astonished at the failure of my letter in answer to that which contained the proposition of Mr Sparks. I answered the day of its reception and expressed unequivocally my opinion that his offer should be accepted. In addition to the obvious reasons for accepting it stated by yourself I suggested others of a nature somewhat delicate which I would not willingly submit to any eye but yours. I also mentioned an idea respecting the second edition of The Life of Washington which I will state to you when we meet. This letter was addressed to you at Mount Vernon. I shall send this to Alexandria lest the address to Mount Vernon should not secure the conveyance to the proper post office.

Soon after writing to you I received a letter from Mr Sparks which I answered by informing him that I had received a letter from you communicating his offer which I had answered by advising its acceptance. With great esteem & affection I am dear Sir your obedt