It has been suggested to me, that some censure will attatch to my relinquishment of the seat in the Legislature of virginia to which I was elected in April last by the people of Franklin; I am not vain to hold a place in that body. No beleif is entertain’d that there, or in any other place my name would acquire approbation; farther than a sincere desire to discharge promptly and with fidelity what I conceiv’d my duty—merits; were my feelings consulted there would be no hesitation to continue in a Service from which I have experienced more real pleasure than at any other period of my life; arising from an uniform benevolence of Treatment of which I never think, but with a transport of gratitude which can never be controled or effaced;—nor would any consideration of personal Injury induce me to mention the Subject if I beleivd the smallest inconvenience would arise from my temporary absence, Mr Henry Dearborn would officiate during my stay in Rich’d—Having a confidence in your Judgement which nothing can impair, & knowing you would save me from any evil which impends my character now or hereafter, I have taken the liberty of submitting the case; your Opinion will be my defence & my determination; I am sincerely

Yours