The extreme pressure of my avocations has hitherto prevented me from saying what I ought long since to have done, that I appreciate aright your motives in the letters you have written me upon the subject of the profession & that although we may not agree upon all points I shall never think otherwise than well of your disposition & intentions.

The President informed me some days since that he had written you & will see by the Globe of this morg a repetition of his views. The times will be hard & the struggle a great one, but the patriotism and fortitude of the people will triumph over all obstacles. Be sure of it. Remember me kindly to Mrs. H & the family & to Mr & Mrs Ludlow.