I have duly recd. the copy of your speech on the 28th. of Ocr. last; for which I am indebted to your politeness & tender my acknowledgments.

I join very sincerely in all the praise which has been bestowed on the intellectual power & impressive eloquence by which it is distinguished But I am constrained to mingle with this just tribute, the remark that it comprizes doctrines in which I can not concur, & an indulgence of feelings which I can not but lament.

As you appear to attach much importance to the Virga. & Kentucky proceedings, occasioned by the Alien & Sedition Acts, & may not possess them in the most convenient form; possibly, not have seen them in an entire State, I ask the favor of you to accept the pamphlet Edition of them herewith inclosed: assuring you at the same time of my best wishes that the talents & virtues of which you enjoy the high reputation, may ever be exerted in ways as really, as I am persuaded they will be, intentionally, conducive to the good of our Country & the cause of Liberty

I must intreat you, Sir, to grant to the freedom used in what I have said, the excuse which I fear it may need; and to regard the motives to it as in perfect accordance with the cordial respects & salutations which I pray you to accept