My delay in returning you my thanks for your very obliging letter & its valuable contents has ill accorded with the grateful feelings they inspired. I consider that the opinions expressed in both those letters as well as the reasons by which they are supported will make them a most valuable addition to my forthcoming work. I had not been unmindful of Mr. Jefferson’s repeated references to the political unity of the federal government, and justice to his memory as well as a regard to what seems to me the only sound, or safe doctrine will impel me to make full use of them.

I have this moment completed the annual Consolidated Report for the Visitors. As soon as I can get disengaged from the University, I shall set off with Mrs. Tucker for Baltimore &—and I shall endeavour to call on you on my way, not however without some fear, that I may be troublesome to you in my queries & consultations—I beg to present my respects to Mrs. Madison & to subscribe my with great veneration your obedt Servt.