Your favor of the 1st. inst. has been recieved. the three copies of the Oeconomy of human life had before come to hand. this elegant little morsel of morality has always been a great favorite of mine, and without pretending to be a critic in French style, I have no doubt you have done justice to the original in your translation. I am in your debt for the three copies, which I shall be glad to discharge to any body here for you, or, on account of your early departure, I think mr Duane, who is to send me some books, would be so obliging, on application, as to pay for these and put it into his account.

With respect to the insult we have recently recieved from England, the usages of civilized nations, & still more the principles of humanity require that we should give her an opportunity of disavowal & reparation, & should these be refused, our constitution has given to the legislature to decide whether war, non-intercourse, or what else shall be their resort. all arrangements respecting military emploiment would be premature at present in the Executive, and therefore precludes my availing our country of the tender of your useful services. Accept my salutations & assurances of esteem & respect