I received your letter of the 5th inst. together with the MSS. & other papers sent with it, which I have returned.

It gives me pleasure to see any attempts made towards improving literature & science, more especially when they tend to the immediate & particular advantage of this Country, & I should always wish to encourage & promote them: but I cannot with propriety enter into your plan, & offer you the encouragement you desire, as I am not so well acquainted with your character & abilities as many Gentlemen in Alexandria undoubtedly are, who will have an opportunity of attending your lectures, which I shall not; & are capable of giving your plan every encouragement which it deserves. I am Sir &c.