I have recd. your letter of the 10th. instant.

As I could say nothing that would throw light on the merits of your claim and ought not to presume that a mere expression of my good will could influence the decision on it. I can perceive no ground on which I could properly take the step you suggest. I cannot but persuade myself that on a full consideration of the subject you will concur in the view I take of it; and that you will find in this, nothing inconsistent with the respect & good wishes which I pray you to accept