I was this morning fav[ore]d. with your’s of Yesterday, and regret the obstacles you mention.

a Report is prevailing here that the chancellor is contemplated for France—1 Mrs. Montgomery is said to have mentioned it—on what authority I know not. Your Question deserves mature Consideration— unsuccessful opposition gives strength, especially in the Cases where the it may be ascribed with a tolerable Degree of Plausibility, to personal and Party animosities— It is also a serious Question who should succeed as chancellor— In some Hands that office would weaken the Security of Property, & be the engine of much political mischief— If he should be nominated by the Presidt. and approved by the Senate; my Plan would be, to put you in his place, and Gulian Verplank in your’s— I am too much pressed for Time to write to our Friend Hamilton on these Subjects— I meant to suggest to him some Hints and immature Reflections— for I have not Leisure to form any opinions which I would venture to rely upon— Be so good as to communicate this letter from [for?] to him— This opinion I can rely upon, that it will always be best for you to consult each other— rational men need and ask advice; not for Direction, but for Information. Yours very sincerely