The "unfavourable reports" which you say are pouring in upon you are devices of the enemy & nothing else. It was to prevent the desertions from their ranks which were apprehended that this expedient of lying without rhyme or reason was resorted to. That we may be beaten is certain & if such should be the case I can conscientiously say it is not my fault & will cheerfully submit to what is unavoidable. But that appearances indicate that we will be beaten is false as the Alcoran. Every letter we receive from the West gives continued evidence of our Improvements in that quarter. I see in your enumerated condition as to your trial with Judge Van Ness you have no stipulation as to the Judge who is to be preside. I presume my friend the Chief Justice is Silent on this subject as he ought to be—for should he pronounce his brother a persecuted man &c &c. you might feel it your Interest to cause it to be remembered & your duty hereafter to rely upon it if circumstances should require it.

I congratulate you on your removal. It may be productive of present inconvenience to you, but sacrafices in the republican cause are never made in vain.

The Jockies calculated that the appointment of Foot would not reach Chatauqua before the election. I got a Copy of the minutes hower & have ensured its transmission there by express from Buffalo. I go today to Columbia. My best respects to Mrs H. & believe me to be affectionately yours—