In the last letter that I had the honor of writing to you from New York,1 I made known to you a few works that would be worthy of your attention since they concern the prosperity of your country. They consist of the petition contained herein, and the memorandum which accompanies the petition. The memorandum supports the petition by means of the series of principles I had set down therein.2 Their truth cannot be disputed, anymore than can their good effects. However, one individual to whom I communicated this work, and who desires the introduction in his country of all laws capable of accelerating its prosperity, told me not long ago that the private interest of members of Congress would pose an obstacle to the outcome of this petition. I am convinced that there is no objective useful to the public that may not be obtained from an assembly, provided it be presented properly; so I am sending it in such a way that the petition cannot possibly be rejected.

I would therefore be infinitely obliged to you, sir, if you would be so kind as to examine the petition in light of the public interest alone, and in particular the principles of the memorandum. If you acknowledge that their adoption may indeed accelerate the prosperity of your country, there will remain only to alter the petition and make a selection among those members of the House of Representatives most dedicated to the public good and who would enforce its principles over the objections of private interest. Being germane to his department, it would also then be an objective to pass on to Mr. Hamilton. I will still rewrite the conclusions in such a way that they may not be refuted and that the Europeans may equally find their surety therein.

I am with utmost respect, sir, your most humble and most obedient servant