[XXIX - 154] New York October 21^st 1791 Dear Sir. On my return from Boston I met with your Letter of the 2^d Inst. but omitted answering &c, as it was not then in my power to see when I could be in Philadelphia and as our friend Duer proposed making your [undecipherable] & coming with you. I thought it best to charge him with a message on the Subject, which I doubt not he has communicated. Since that, the face of things have changed, a Manifesto from England is arrived, agreeable to my communications from some Ladys, and I have by this Post offered myself as a Candidate for the appointment as the Consul of London, & upon which I conceive to be strong grounds — If this can be Obtained, I am confident It will have a very extensive Influence & Operation — permit me to request your good Offices on the Subject & that you will favour me with a line as soon as [undecipherable] — With great respect & regard I am Sir Your Your Sincere Friend & Humble Ser^t [signature: W. S. Smith] The Hon^ble H. Knox