Mr. Samuel Vaughan junr has informed me, that he purposes applying to Congress for an Employment in their intended Mint, and for some Encouragement to explore the United States, with respect to the Ores, Minerals, &ca. that may be contained in their Territories; and has requested of me a Line of Recommendation to you.

I do not know how far his Views may be compatible with those of Congress, nor do I presume to have any Interest that may promote them; But if it may be of use to him, I with Pleasure give this Testimony, that I have known him some Years, during which he has been constantly engaged in the diligent Study of Metallurgy and Mineralogy, and in travelling thro’ most of the Countries of Europe where there are Mines, and where those Sciences flourish, to inspect the one, and converse with the learned and experienc’d Professors of the other: That he has brought with him to this Country a most valuable Collection of Books on the Subject, as well as a very great Assortment of all the different Ores &ca. and that I esteem him as a Man of Probity and Integrity, as well as of great Skill and Ingenuity, so that in my Opinion if induced to stay among us with his Collections, it will be a valuable Acquisition to our Country. With great Respect, I have the honor to be, Sir, Your most obedient and most humble Servant.