The day was cloudy and mild. I read some of Wallenstein and then went to the Office. Received a letter from Mr. Frye requesting a letter containing information about our Revolutionary Land Law passed last year. I was obliged to go for it to the State House. Wrote more of my Record, which now and then grows long.

A later arrival from France puts a more pacific aspect upon affairs. But the great question of the decision of the Chamber of Deputies upon which the whole question of our relations must turn is as unsettled as ever. It is a little amusing to me to see the effect upon the spirits of people whose interest is thought to be much affected—As much elated by the little spark of hope today as depressed by the slight cloud on the other side on Saturday. Never giving to every thing its due share of importance. And never regarding the true state of the question at all. I have some stake in these matters myself but I hope I shall never fall down to Mammon as the God of my Idolatry.

Walk. Read Ovid. Afternoon. Made great progress in the final disposition of the papers under my care. I have nearly completed them. Wrote a reply to Mr. Frye1 and read a little of Grimm. Evening. Looked into a Life of Talleyrand which seems to be a gross libel upon him from beginning to end.2 I was so disgusted with it’s details that I threw it up. Conversation and Wallenstein which interests me.