Your 2 letters one from N. Y. inclosing a letter from Genl. Lafayette, the other from Charlottesville have been duly recd

The miscalculation on which you happened to proceed, and the long period which elapsed without seeking the information by which your perseverance was to be decided are much to be regretted; and the more so, as a remedy for the case does not offer itself. However the proposed monument to so illustrious a benefactor, be worthy of the gratitude of his fellow Citizens it can not be inferred from the existing circumstances of the Country that in the mode proposed, the object is attainable; and an attempt with a prospect of success, can have nothing to recomend it.

I am sorry that I could not give to your letters an answer more acceptable, but it is the only one that candour would justify. Be pleased to accept Sir my respects & good wishes