
          And. [Answered] Dec. 9.


 Cambridge, Thursday Eveng [Evening]


 My Dear Friend 


 I despatched a letter to 
 you this morning, but I must 
 write again now, to inform you 
 that Dr. Pickering came out this 
 morning to tell me, in confidence, 
 particularly desiring me to tell you 
 however that they have at 
 length got rid of Rich at Washington, 
 by his receiving some appointment 
 as Paymaster in the Army. 
 We both think that the coast 
 is now very clear for you, and
 P. [Pickering] would like to see [crossed out: a part of the 
 work] you appointed to look after 
 it. Pickering only hopes that Wilkes
 will not throw all into the hands of 
 some incompetent man. Have you 
 heard anything from Wilkes, or 
 Drayton? in reference to what Drayton 
 was to undertake in your behalf. 
 If not, pray write to Wilkes at 
 once yourself about the Californian 
        