I have learnt with pleasure that the Establishment of West Point is to possess a full length portrait of yourself executed by M Sully

I have always esteemed this Institution as a most important one to the permanent Strength of this Country—The objection to & the expence of, a large Army will always reduce the regular1 armed force of this Country, So as to make it a Comparatively small School for military education & So divided that the means of instruction will be very confined—Under these Circumstances the advantages of a Military School to lay a foundation on which a Scientific knowledge of the profession may be built when the occasion calls for the service, are incalculable—& I hope the present measure may operate as a Continuance for Years to Come, of that protection which you have So wisely afforded it & will enable it to resist all the attacks of false œconomy—Its destruction would be a great national evil—

I am gratified that it has fallen to Mr Sullys lot to be the Artist employed & beg leave to recommend him to that attention which—Talent & modest merits have ever experienced from you—