The present opportunity is so favorable for obtaining answers to the several particular cases, relative to individuals, which had been committed to your care at Madrid before I came into office, and also those of the same nature since, that I must ask the favor of you to give, by the return of Mr. Blake, a particular statement of what has been done in each case, addressing your letter ‘to the Secretary of state of the US’ as I shall retire from the office before his return. While in it, I have had the honor of receiving from you but a single letter, which was sent by Colo. Humphreys on his leaving Madrid. The case of the Dover Cutter, which has for so long a time been the subject of so many letters, is still the subject of constant sollicitation and enquiry here. I have the honor to be with great esteem Sir Your most obedient & most humble servt