At the same time I am to acknowledge the rect of your Letter of the 17th inst. and to agree with you in sentiment that nothing can be attempted in the Works you project, so long as the War continues, I must take the liberty also to inform you candidly I do not imagine, that the State of Virginia, or either of the southern States or Companies of Gentlemen in them, will for many years to come, think themselves sufficiently interested in the commerce of the great Rivers you mention, to incur any considerable expence in opening the Navigation of them.

You may be assured, Sir, I can be actuated with no unfriendly motive in thus giving you my opinion, & that I should not discourage the Project did I not apprehend you would meet with insuperable difficulties. for the plan is, I believe, not only practicable in itself, but if executed, would hereafter be of immense advantage in its consequences; and indeed I have no doubt it will in some future age, (which perhaps the rapid increase of population & wealth after the War may precipitate beyond all calculation) be carried into execution.

But from the present juvinile State of the Country, the abundance of land, the scarcity of labourers, and the want of resources, I say from these, & many other circumstances, it appears to me that this is too early a day for accomplishing such great undertakings; and that it would be more advisable to turn your attention & abilities to works of more facility in the performance & of more immediate public utility, in attempting which you will doubtless experience the encouragement & patronage of all who are friendly to the liberal & useful Arts, as well as the interests of society & their Country. With due regard I am Sir Your Most Obed. Servt