Mr. Madison was to set out on Monday last, & is expected here to-day. we have some matters of considerable interest for consultation on which we shall be glad to have your aid.   The death of mr Purviance has vacated an office of value. my knolege of the personal worth of mr Nicholson & of his standing with the nation at large, could leave no doubt in my mind as to the propriety of offering it to him, which I do by the present mail. it will give him more emolument & more leisure than the office he now holds & therefore may be preferred by him; & to myself it is very gratifying to give him this proof that no circumstances have changed my friendly dispositions towards him. Accept my affectionate salutations & assurances of great esteem & respect.