I am informed by my brother that you have condescended to patronise my first effort as an author. With your name, I associate every thing that is dear and valuable to my country. Yours, Sir, will be the third name that will be remembered with gratitude by future generations. I was in the full glow of youth during your administration, having entered my 21st year in 1809—hence you appear more near to me than the good Jefferson. I was one of the minority of Massachusetts, save when we elected Sulivan and Gerry. I saw, I felt what faction was; and I could not resist the torrent of my feelings to paint its baneful effects in my poem. Indeed, it was this circumstance, together with a determination to prove that the war was a necessary, honourable and glorious act, that strengthened me to persevere with untiring ardour to the end.

Great has been my labour; and every moment of my leisure is still devoted to the subject. I am determined that no effort of mine shall be wanting to make it worthy of the theme I have chosen. After a second edition shall be published (should I ever be patronised so far as to effect it.) and it should then be pronounced a failure by the publick, I shall submit, as it becomes a freeman, to the will of the majority.

After thanking you for your patronage, permit me to add my benediction for your health and happiness—