Please allow me, Monsieur, to ask you a favor, if it does not trouble you. A friend of mine from the north has an interest in a company in his country which does considerable business; he would very much like to know if there is free trade in the United States of North America. He has given me, for this purpose, a small number of points, about which he would like to be informed. I have the honor of sending them to you, copied across half the page, so that if possible, you would be so good as to reply. I would be truly obliged, because he is an excellent man, to whom I would be enchanted to render this service with your help.

I have the honor of being, Monsieur, with the most distinguished sentiments of esteem and attachment Your very humble and obedient servant