However favorably the inclosed papers represent the case of Alexander Trott, yet it would be against every rule of prudence for me to undertake to revise the verdict of a jury on ex parte affidavits & recommendations. if the judges & yourself who were present at the trial think the defendant a proper object of pardon I shall be ready, on such a recommendation, to issue it. I ask the favor of your information on this subject, & salute you with esteem & respect.