The prospect of full employment at the mint still continues, and is likely to increase. It is probable that in the course of the present year we shall strike to the amount of not less than a million of dollars.

Our present Engraver, Mr. Scott, though indeed a meritorious and faithful officer, is yet so far advanced in life, being I believe upwards of seventy, that he cannot be expected very long to continue his labours;—and in the event of his sickness or death, the business of mint would probably be stopped for some time: since few, if any one, could be found qualified to supply his place, except Mr. Reich, an artist with whom talents I presume, you are not unacquainted; and this gentleman, not finding business here sufficient for his support, is, I understand, about to remove to Europe.   A small salary would, however retain him in the country, and secure his services to the mint—and, in truth, the beauty of our coins would be greatly improved by the assistance of his masterly hand.

An assistant Engraver was formerly employed in the mint, both by Mr. Rittenhouse and by Mr. Dessasure, and with your approbation, Sir, I would immediately employ Mr. Reich in that capacity.

He is willing for the present to accept of the moderate compensation of six hundred dollars per annum; and if this gentleman should be employed, perhaps more than his salary would be saved to the publick, in what is usually expended on the engraving of dies for medals; but which might then be executed by an artist in their own service, with little or no additional expence

I am, Sir, with perfect respect & esteem your most obedient servant