there will be an early subject of difference, for I do not suppose the Gov^r can give them any other answer this year than he did, the last, to the same request[.]

In your letter to me in November, you alluded to the ad progress of our Literary & Historical Society. If I can get a frank for it tomorrow, I will send you our last annual report[.] We have heard, perhaps not on sufficient grounds of fact, that you have a large collection, made by yourself while in the North West country, of original Indian tales; as related by the Indians over their fires at night[.] I can easily conceive that such a collection, made by one with your habits of observation, would contain much that is both new and interesting[.] And although we can though we cannot hope for your personal assistance or countenance to our endeavours, I am convinced your good will towards us would induce you to allow us to make use of any such valuable materials for publication, if they should be of a nature suitable to our transactions[.] Will you be kind enough to say, when you next write, whether you have any such papers in your possession. By the way, [is...][.] I am sorry we shall not see you in your place this session, — and still more sorry for the cause[.] The Chief Justice has had a severe illness since the middle of Dec^r; — though long since convalesent; — but he is still confined to his room[.] His disorder was influenza[.] M^r Smith too has been very ill for several weeks, — first form an upset in a cariole which greatly injured his leg & back, & then from erysipelas following the accident, which has given him a sad pair of swelled legs, & keeps him still confined to his couch[.] Judge Bowen sits Speaker (very properly) notwithstanding the out cry long made in the Assembly, and since re-echoed by the Council against

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