352 Life of Count Rnmford. 



this head, I am convinced that his political sentiments are 

 correct. 



"Be good enough to communicate this letter to the Presi- 

 dent. 



" With great respect and esteem, I have the honor to be, 

 dear sir, 



" Yours faithfully, 



"RUFUS KING. 

 COLONEL PICKERING." [Secretary of State.] 



"LONDON, March 10, 1799. 



" DEAR SIR, I anfiex a copy of a letter from Count Rum- 

 ford, formerly Sir Benjamin Thompson, to me upon a subject 

 somewhat interesting. I am persuaded that the establishment 

 of an American Military Academy is an object of the first im- 

 portance to us. Count Rumford has founded one in Bavaria 

 that enjoys a very high reputation, and I have reason to believe 

 that he would receive very great pleasure in communicating to 

 us the results of his Experience on this subject. I have not 

 seen his Military Books, Drawings, &c., but am informed that 

 that they are inestimable. The cannon he proposes to make a 

 present of to the United States is a perfect Model, and will 

 serve to assist us in the casting and mounting of our Field 

 Artillery. I have sent a copy of the Count's letter likewise 

 to Col. Pickering, and must wait for the President's instruc- 

 tions through him or you in what manner I shall answer it. 

 Count Rumford proposes to return with the view of residing 

 part of his time in his native Country. On this subject I take 

 the Liberty to refer you to a letter from me to Col. Picker- 

 ing, and will only add, that it would undoubtedly be encour- 

 aging and grateful to him to receive an assurance from the 

 Piesident through me, or in any other way, that he will be 



received in a kind and friendly manner 



" With sincere esteem and respect, 



"RUFUS KING. 



" JAMES MI-HENRY, 



