Yours of the 27. Decr. reached New Canton during my late absence from home, which prevented it from coming to my hands as early as it otherwise would have done.

The papers accompanying your letter, discover a deplorable state of things indeed, in the depravity of the Hotel Keepers.

I have already confered with Mr. Cabell & Mr. Johnson upon this difficult & painful subject—and shall see Mr. Loyal also. It seems to be thought by the two first, that it will be unnecessary to call the Board of Visitors together. In any event, they are of the opinion, that the Executive Committee, can do whatever may be necessary until the meeting of the Board in July. In order to avoid as far as possible all inconvenient delays—I shall ask for leave of absence from the Board of public Works on friday next—and shall proceed as fast as I can, consistently with spending one day at home & another at the University, to Montpellier—and bringing with me the views of the members of the Board of Visitors here, you will be at once prepared to decide upon the proper Course to be taken.

The subject of the Military school has been attended to—and the result of the conference you advised with Mr. Cabell shall be fully made known when I shall have the pleasure to see you. With high regard & Esteem, I am Dr. sir Yours respectfully