I have recd. a letter from Mr. Wm. Emmons accompanied by a copy of the "Fredoniad," elegantly bound; observing at the same time that the Edition had left hanging over him a debt of $2000, and that if disposed to assist the effort $10, the price of the work might be forwarded to you.

I am truly sorry that such an undertaking should have left him in such a situation, and consulting only my inclination, I should take a pleasure in proving my good will on the occasion. But I must frankly say that in my own situation I owe it to considerations of justice as well as of prudence to adopt a rule not consistent with the arrangement proposed. I wish M. Emmons, nevertheless, to know that in declining it, I am not the less sensible of the friendly feelings by which it was prompted. Be so good as to learn from him, whether the volumes which I can not retain, should be forwarded to you or receive any other destination. I take this occasion Sir to renew to you the assurances of my great esteem & best wishes.