You will know best how far the letter accompanying this, from Mr Crabb is entitled to consideration. In my judgement, it has an honest face.  I will make inquiries as to the man, & if they are answered satisfactorily, I have not ^the^ least doubt that the subscriptions may be obtained, if it shall be deemed expedient to encourage any thing of this sort.

I am not surprised at this opinion of the Pennsylvanian. Bennett is too ruthless & dishonest—as marketable as Webb—indeed, now as heretofore, his friend & confederate. But I freely leave this matter to time: with the sincere hope that I may be disappointed in my estimate of the man & the value of his labors. Undoubtedly the affectation of friendship by all such fellows as Webb, Bennett & Sutherland, is more to be dreaded than their avowed hostility—enmity they ever have, if it be ever so much concealed, from sinister designs, for a season.

I meant to have said as much as this to our friend of the Mech. & Farmers’ B., but I was prevented from seeing him this morning previous to his departure. Do me the favor to return the letter by him.