Early Governors' Papers

Washington Jan^y 24. 1803

Sir

Accept my thanks, for yours of the 30^th of Nov^r. and the willingness you express to furnish me, as soon as is convenient, with such information as may be necessary, from the offices in your state, to elucidate the object of pursuit. I have delayed an answer, from an hope of receiving from carolina, or collecting from other sources such information as would enable me to de-cide understandingly the evidence, in its extent, and kind, which it would probably be requisite to procure from the offices of your Government. I, however as yet have processed no such infor-mation, must therefore rely very much on your own knowledge of the subject. My own opinion is, that certificates, with some general explanations, pointing to the objects of enquiry will be sufficient - of this, You indeed, are the best judge - and my wish is, that your discretion would elect a mode, which will be effectual, with as little expense to the United States as is consistent with accomplish-ing the business -

I have the Honor to be Sir very respectfully your most ob^t Sev^t Len Lincoln

His Excellency Archibald Roane Esq.

Att^y Gen^l. U.S. L. Lincoln

His Excellency Archabald [sic] Roane Governor of Tennessee Knoxville -