I have recd. the Communication of the Delegates from the Counties composing this Senatorial District assembled for the purpose of recommending four persons to represent it in the Convention wch. is to propose amendments to the Constitution of the State; acquainting me that I have been included in the number selected, and expressing a wish to be informed, whether the Delegation has my assent to their making it known to the people of the District, that if elected I will obey the call to the service assigned me.

Altho’ aware of the considerations which at my age & with the infirmities incident to it, might dissuade me from assuming such a trust, I retain too deep a sense of what I owe for past & repeated marks of confidence & favor, to my native State, and particularly to that portion of it, not to join my efforts however feeble, in the important work to be performed, should such be the will of the District.

In that event I shall carry into the Convention every disposition not to lose sight of the interest & feelings of the District; while availing myself of the lights afforded by the free & calm discussions becoming such a Body, and yielding to that spirit of compromise to which the foresight of the Delegation has so appropriately alluded.

I offer to the Delegation the expression of my sincere & great respect