[undecipherable] Quincy August 13^th 1799 [224] Dear Sir Last night I received your favor of the 6, I have read the enclosures all which I return to you. I will not object to the appointment of Mr. [undecipherable: probable reading Browne] as one of the three — but I will not appoint him first as long as [undecipherable: probable reading Browne] lives. If you can find another American mathematician better than [undecipherable: probable reading Browne] it is well — if not we will appoint him first teacher. — I am well satisfied with the recommendation of Col. David [undecipherable: probable reading Vance] and willing to appoint him; but I wish you to ask the opinion of Mr. Wolcott. In all business, which involves expense, I love to consult the Secretary of the Treasury. My opinion is clear in favor of one commissioner, rather than three & [undecipherable: probable reading Vance] will be enough. I need say nothing about [undecipherable] fellow Mr. Mc. Hen[ry] or Mr. [undecipherable] if we have but one. Would it be worth while to write to Presidents Willard, Dwight, Smith, [undecipherable: probable reading Ewing] &c to enquire after young mathematicians? Secretary of War I am Sir with cordial [undecipherable]