It is with sincere regret, that I learn from you that it is not possible to supply me with any particulars, respecting the early life of Genl Washington. The interest and value of the work would be greatly enhanced by such additions, but as these cannot be had I must do as well as I can. With the materials now on hand I shall be able to throw much light on the part he took in the French war. Govr Dinwiddie’s Letter Books, and the papers in the Plantation Office in London, have furnished me with numerous facts.

You enquire when the first part of the work will be ready for the press. This is a difficult question to answer with any precision, but I trust the first volume will be ready in the course of a year. There is a great deal to be done in preparing this volume, for it embraces the whole period to the beginning of the revolution. As soon as this is through the press, the other volumes will go on with speed.

My intention is before long to send out proposals to several publishers, & then to accept the best offer. You will receive a copy of these proposals together with such offers as shall be made before I close any contract. I am, Sir, very sincerely & respectfully Your obt servt