I am so far on my way to Madrid and on the point of recommencing my journey this morning. my letters to Mr. Madison have been so full that it is unnecessary to enter into the same topicks here even had I time, tho’ I have not as I set out in an hour. It is possible that yr. attention may be directed to the fortification of our ports, since the establishment of certain fortifications on the coast as places of security for our vessels to retreat toward in wars to which we are not a party, independant of the great object of protecting our cities from the insult of cruisers &ca may make it adviseable to take the subject up. My mind has been long made up on that point, & that an attention to the object, as soon as others were arranged wod. add much to the credit of our govt. My attention however has been drawn to it at this moment by meeting here a most able & respectable Engineer Col: Vincent who made some important [. . .] New York, & was introduced to me when formerly in France by a letter from Govr. Clinton. It was Col: Vincent who assisted (or rather did it himself) in procuring that most valuable library which I sent to the department of war, which was most unfortunately destroyed at washington by fire. I do presume that the aid of some very skilful engineers wod. be found useful in such a business when undertaken and that these must be procured from abroad. It is not improbable that this gentleman might be prevailed on to engage in this service, as he is very much attached to our government & country. He is a Colonel of long service in France of great experience, and of the fairest character. If he was engaged he might take others with him, three or four and who wod. not only accomplish the great object proposed but lay the foundation of a military school. It is not impossible that Carnot who is his friend might accompany him. I only give you these hints for consideration. Shod. you wish any thing of the kind, an authority to me or General Armstrong, mentioning these men would be necessary. The approbation of their govt. might easily be obtained & would be indispensible. I am dear Sir with very great & sincere regard yr. friend & servant