On Friday last Mrs. Hamilton favored us with a Visit.— Speaking of Doctr. Mason,1 she observed that the State of his Health not permitting him to write the Life of General Hamilton, she had received from him the Papers which had been put into his hands for that purpose.—

She expressed her Desire to have the Life written, and remarked in Substance, that she knew of no Person who was both so well circumstanced and qualified for it, as yourself. I concurred in this opinion, and at her Request promised to write to you on the Subject. I should have done it by the Mail of this week, but was prevented by Company.—

On the proposed Work, viewed in any point of Light, I can make no Observations that would be new to you— I will therefore only suggest, that your long and familiar Acquaintance and Intercourse with the General, and your comprehensive and accurate Knowledge of public affairs, and particularly of those in which he was engaged, afford Facilities for it, which you only possess in so high a Degree—

Permit me to add—that the Work, being biographical, would derive no inconsiderable advantage from the Character of the Author— I am persuaded that Mrs. Hamilton would consider herself greatly obliged by your undertaking it—2

Be pleased to present my Compts. to Mrs. King— I have heard that she was in delicate Health; and she has my best Wishes for its Reestablishment. with great Respect and Regard I am, Dear Sir, your faithful and obt. Servt.