I have not yet learnt whether a letter some time since forwarded covering an affidavit has been received, and therefore feel considerable anxiety lest it may have miscarried.

Mr Smith called on me a few days since & enquired whether my affidavit had been taken & forwarded to the President observing that he had been informed it had, but refused to give me the name of his informant—I informed him that my Affidavit had been taken, but on his requesting a Copy I declined giving it. From what source his information was derived I am entirely at a loss to know, as it was known only to two or three of my friends in this place—Whether he recd an intimation of it from Washington (which I think by no means probable) or whether it was merely a conjecture of his own, I am unable to ascertain, (the latter is most probable)—

I am also at a loss to know, what course he will pursue, But if an opinion can be found from his conduct on former occasions he may probably attempt to injure my reputation, especially as Slander seems to be the order of the day—Should this be attempted I beg leave to refer you for my character to Mr Mansfield the Surveyor General, & Daniel Symmes Esquire one of the Judges of the Supreme Court of this State. I mention these characters because they are well acquainted with me, & are themselves known at Washington City, and therefore require no other recommendation than their names

The person alluded to in my affidavit will give his if requested which will be in substance the same as that I had the honor to transmit—

Pray excuse the trouble this may give you

And believe me with Sentiments of the highest respect Your obt Hble Servt.