I have received your letter of the 29. Ult. I sincerely regret that the situation which suggested it is such as you describe it: and it would well accord with my good wishes that a more eligible one could be substituted, but that in which I am placed does not permit me to take the step to which your letter points. The numerous applications I have received for interpositions in behalf of individuals desirous of employment and in the Federal government obliged me to decline the task altogether, and in the observance of this rule to give answers, in cases, some of them of a pressing character, with which a compliance in your case, would be inconsistant. It gives me pleasure that you have friends that you are ready to serve you, and that the other personal considerations to which you refer are such as speak for themselves, and may be expected to have the influence due to them. With this explanation to which I hope you will do justice, I tender you my friendly respect and good wishes.