I had just written, and was about to put into the hands of Mr. Taylor, (a Gentleman in the Department of the Secretary for Foreign Affairs) the enclosed Letter,—when I had the honor to receive by Post your Favor of the 20th. instant.

I have a grateful sense of the partiality of the French nation towards me, and feel very sensibly the indulgent expression of your letter which does me great honor.

When it suits Mr. Houdon to come hither, I will accommodate him in the best manner I am able, and shall endeavour to render his stay as agreeable as I can.

It would give me infinite pleasure to see you: at his place I dare not look for it; tho’ to entertain you under my own roof would be doubly gratifying. When, or whether ever I shall have the satisfaction of seeing you at Philada. is uncertain, as retirement from the public walks of life has not been so productive of the leisure and ease as might have been expected.

With very great esteem and respect, I am Dear Sir, Your most obedient &c.