An Idea has occured to me, that it is possible to ascertain the Longitude of places in the Northern Hemisphere, when the necessary preparatory Tables are formed, in as simple manner, (or nearly so) as the Latitude. It appears to me that if the nightly positions of the pointers, in their revolution round the north Star, can be accurately fixed, & a Table formed thereof similar to that of the Sun’s daily declination, as used in the Seaman’s assistant, the desired effect might be obtained by observation with a Quadrant. It will perhaps be necessary to ascertain the relative distances of the pointers to the polar Star & of the same to each other, & to combine the nightly observation of them, with the last preceeding daily observation for the Latitude; hence, something more will depend upon reckoning & calculation, than in taking the Latitude & the operation, perhaps, from other circumstances will be a little more complex.

I have observed that the Sun’s declination on the meridian is the source of our Latitude & an Idea of a revolutionary body round a fixed (or nearly so) object would give as just an Idea from observation of our easting & westing, as the other does of our northing & southing (when the observations are combined). Relying upon your character I have been emboldened to write to you on the subject, with full confidence that if there is any thing in the suggestion worth attention, that it will not be lost. I am not master of a sufficient degree of Science to pursue the investigation, if worthy, you will put it into possession of some person that is. If not I am well assured in my mind that you will pardon the intrusion, that the perusal of this may make upon your public functions.

I am with the most sincere respect yr. obt.