In preparing my intended Discourse upon Mr Clinton I shall have occasion to speak of the Erie canal and of those who contributed to its accomplishment. I know that upon one occasion in the senate you rendered very important services by a speech which you delivered and which essentially contributed to change the current of opinion in that body at a time when great opposition existed. Can you favor me with a copy of that speech or direct me where I can obtain it? For it is my intention to refer to every important document on this subject. I will also esteem it a favor, if your leisure will [perm]it to receive from you, confidentially if [. . .] account of the agency you had [. . .] <illegible> [. . .] <illegible> to any one individual but is a child of many fathers and that I am desirous of ascertaining its parentage and the services of all who have contributed to its maturity.

As I intend to deliver my Discourse on the final sunday in novr. I will be greatly obliged if your occupations will permit you to reply before that time. In the appendix, which will be of considerable extent, I can find a place for any details that you may deem interesting and which I will with great pleasure introduce. From Mr Hawley, Foreman, Platt, Troup Watson, Tibbitts and others I have obtained highly interesting and original materials that will enable me to place that subject before the public in a new and I hope more correct point [. . .] exists at this time. [. . .] were not permitted to prevent you ^after his decease^ from offering a just tribute, to his worth and services, after his decease, I shall and notice and give a place in the appendix, to your address at Washington on this subject.

I hope this application will not be deemed intrusive at a moment when you may be engaged in other important duties.

I am Dear Sir with sentiments of esteem and great respect