General Dearborn returned the day before yesterday. At Frederick-town he met with Mr. Pichon, who informed him that he was in possession of orders to Mr. Laussat to receive possession of Louisiana and deliver it to us. You must be already apprised that he has received the ratifications of the treaty and conventions. The enclosed letter from Mr. Monroe1 intimates his intention of proceeding to London with out going to Madrid for the present.

The deposition transmitted by Mr. Davis2 evinces a continuation of that arrogant and lawless conduct which has lately given rise to complaints against the British commanders in the waters of the Chesapeake. I have enclosed with it the deposition of Capt. Hand of the Hiland,3 a constant trader between Philadelphia and this city. I have not yet received the original of the latter, but shall endeavour to obtain it, before Capt. Hand leaves the place.

I presume nothing can be done with the case of the Whalers on the coast of St. Domingo,4 but to desire the owners to appeal from the sentences of condemnation.

The United States having paid Mr. Wilson’s passage from England, I think that considering that circumstance and the little chance he has of ever obtaining compensation from the British government in addition to what he has already received, he ought not to be countenanced in his new project,5 by recommendatory letters from the Government.

I have sent the packet Mr. Dallas alludes to to Mr. Pichon’s Secretary.6 The letter of which he encloses a copy must have been sent directly to Mr. Pichon, as it did not pass thro’ this office: if it had I should have hesitated much more about forwarding it to him than I did with respect to the packet complained of.

The enclosed letter from Mr. Pinckney7 is interesting as it exhibits the sensations produced at Madrid by the cession of Louisiana. With the greatest respect, I have the honor to remain, Dr. Sir, Your most obed. sert.