p.

betwixt Mrs Ellett and Judge Hopkinson, — and
I am sure you could not have selected
better society any where.

Previous to writing you I had submitted
your manuscript to Mr. Poe, who handed it back
to me as being suitable for the Messenger. After
I had it put in type, I sent a corrected
proof of it to him. He returned it, as you
will see, making several corrections, — and
arranged other things, striking out your first
paragraph, or exerdium. He also struck out
your two concluding paragraphs — but I thought
them worth preserving — and therefore took upon
myself the "responsibility" of retaining them. I
have no doubt whatever, that Mr. Poe done
what he has done for the best. I hope, moreover
that you will think so also. Be that
as it may, I assure you there was not the
slightest intention on my part (nor do I
believe there was on that of Mr. Poe's) to mar
your production. I hope this rapid
explanation will be satisfactory to my friend.

Mr. Poe retired from the editors life of my
work on the 3d inst. I am once more at
the head of affairs. Nevertheless I have private
friends to whom I submit all articles — and
I have consented to abide by their judgment.

So soon as I can spare the time, I will
write to Mr Wilborn. In the meantime, if you
can get me a patron do so and I will send
you on the No' 11 & 12 — to make up the set.
I have not a copy of No 1 or 2 on hand —