The inclosed act of the executive will shew your excellency, that we have put the preparation of the laws, requested in a letter from the Vice president, in a fair train. I hope to be soon able to forward them to the supreme executive council.

Last night I received your favor concerning Joseph Elam. The testimony against him is so well authenticated, that, not knowing how to question its truth, I cannot account for his prudence of conduct and discourse, as far as I have witnessed them. It is not my wish to uphold any violations of the peace, nor countenance any infractions of religious order and decorum. I shall therefore state the matter to him, when he returns, according to my present view of it, and doubt not, that I shall prevent a repetition of his improper behaviour. I have the honor sir to be with great respect your most obedient servant