On my return home the other day I received a letter, from a freind in New York, mentioning Mr. James Renwick,1 at present professor of Nat. philosophy, in the college of Columbia, as a probable candidate for our vacant chair—and speaking of him in very high terms of commendation. Mr. Renwick does not wish to be regarded as a candidate, but his freind writes to obtain information to enable him to decide on the prudence of accepting the place, if offerred to him.

I have answered the letter giving the desired information, and asked in return, for more definite information of Mr. Renwicks qualifications.

He is spoken of as a man of very liberal education, well known in the literary world, particularly skilled in the practical application of the Mechanical powers, and filling his present situation with much credit.

I expect to receive more satisfactory information concerning him, in eight or ten days; and, in the mean time, if the appointment of doctor Jones has not been made, I would suggest the propriety of suspending it.

As soon as I hear from New York, I will communicate the result—with very great respect Your Obt. Svt.