[Nov. 13 1797] [W^m Hemsley] The Hon^ble James M^cHenry Hon^ble M^r Hindman Philadelphia Maryland Queen Annes County Nov. 13^th 1797. Dear Sir Your favor of the 2 instant came to hand a few days ago for which please to accept my thanks — Should you have Occasion to write me in future direct by the Centreville Mails and you shall get it many days Sooner than if the Letter goes on to Easton — I presume you must have heard that my Son sailed for London in August so that he probably arrived there in 15 or 20 days after M^r Kings first Letter to him arrived here, which was on the 14^th September — I have little doubt but he will accept the Appointment which M^r King has so politely offered him, and I flatter myself his Conduct will be such as to do credit to himself & give entire Satisfaction to the Minister — If we are to judge from the Elections, to the State Legislature it would seem as if French principles and Democracy were gaining ground, but I dont think those Elections are the proper Criterion to form an Opinion on — I am well Satisfied when the Election for a Member of Congress comes on that M^r Hindman will be Elected by a great Majority. And on any great National Question you would see all the Wealth & respectability on the Side of Government — I have no fear but that of M^r Hindmans declining to Serve, and have endeavored to press on him the necessity of continuing his Services until some Federal Man of Respectability can be prevailed on to take his place — With every Sentiment of respect & Esteem I am D^r W^m most obed^t Serv^t W^m Hemsley [undecipherable]