Majr. L’enfant comes on to make such a survey of the grounds in your vicinity as may aid in fixing the site of the federal town and buildings. His present instructions express those alone which are within the Eastern branch, the Patowmac, the Tyber, and the road leading from George town to the ferry on the Eastern branch. He is directed to begin at the lower end and work upwards, and nothing further is communicated to him. The purpose of this letter is to desire you will not be yourselves misled by this appearance, nor be diverted from the pursuit of the objects I have recommended to you. I expect that your progress in accomplishing them will be facilitated by the presumption which will arise on seeing this operation begun at the Eastern branch, and that the proprietors nearer George town who have hitherto refused to accomodate, will let themselves down to reasonable terms.* I have referred Majr. Lenfant to the Mayor of George town for necessary aids and expences. Should there be any difficulties on this subject, I would hope your aid in having them surmounted tho’ I have not named you to him or any body else, that no suspicions may be excited of your acting for the public. I am, gentlemen