1

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.