In my letter of yesterday—I forgot to answer your question concerning Marmontels thoughts of writing on American affairs. Marmontel had been appointed by the King—Histiographer of France, while I was there. I suppose that thinking—the <the> Duties of his office would require him to write on the connection between <this country> France & America & hearing of my letter to De Mably—desired to see it. I lent him the French Translation wh’ I lent to y’r father & which you have return’d to me—. When Marmontel return’d it, he sent with it the note which you have seen in his hand writing—. I am ashamed that such a trifling business should have given your father, yourself & me so much trouble. I would give more to see yr fathers first letter to me in print, than all the other letters & papers that have followed. But it is so flattering to me, that it would hurt me; & it is so bold that it would hurt him & you, I hope therefore, You will only Say that I was requested to explain this mighty <[. . .]> matter—