I have duly received your letter of the 4th. instant, on the subject of the Journals of the General Assembly for the Sessions of May 1779 and 1782. I should have felt particular gratification in being able to contribute to the laudable object of the Legislature: But on examining my broken set, I find that it does not include the Journals of either of those dates. I fear there may be some difficulty in filling the chasm in the Roll’s office. Having occasion several years ago for a sight of the Journals for a particular period, and being desirous at the same time of replacing the lost part of my set, I was led to make enquiries in every promising direction, but without success. The only copies I ever obtained, were two from Kentucky, preserved by delegates from that country when a part of Virginia; neither of which happened to be what I wanted, or is of a date named in your letter. I wish that even a public invitation thro’ the press may enable the Executive to give compleat effect to the provisions of the law. May I be permitted to suggest, should the resort be found necessary, that the Library of Congress, which now contains that of Mr. Jefferson, may deserve the attention of the Executive. Be pleased to be assured, Sir, of my high consideration, and to accept my respectful salutations.