I have recd. the Copy of your Speech on the 1st. of Feby. which led you into the subject of our Foreign Intercourse.

It is justly observed that there are no subjects within the circle of our Federal transactions, on which the Public Mind is more susceptible of erroneous impressions, than the arrangements & provisions for diplomatic Missions. The explanatory views you have given of the policy & practice which have prevailed, can not fail to be useful to those who wish to form a just estimate of them.

With my thanks, Sir, for your polite communication, I renew the expression of my great esteem & friendly respects