pamphlets published in one or more of our weekly newspapers.

Accompanying this I send you a pamphlet, which has been lately
published by my old friend Birkbeck, which is by far the best
publication which has been yet given to the public. After you
have perused it, you will confer a favor on me to loan it for the
perusal of our mutual friend Biddle, to whom I beg you to present
my kind regards.

With great respect and sincere regards, your friend,

EDWARD COLES.

TO ROBERTS VAUX,
Philadelphia.

We have had the misfortune (two days since) to lose our State
House by fire. This accident will operate in favor of a
convention. Many profess to be opposed to slavery but in favor of
a convention to remove the seat of Government. There is now of
course less inducement for keeping it here. I still, however,
hope and believe we shall have no convention.

MORRIS BIRKBECK TO GOVERNOR COLES

WANBOROUGH, Dec. 6, 1823.

_Dear Sir_: * * * * * * * * * *

I take the liberty by this mail to send you half a dozen; and if,
on reading a copy, you should think it may be useful to any of
the unconverted Conventionists, you may put it in their way. I am
glad you think favorably of the course the question is taking. I
believe the advocates of a Convention are not so numerous as they
have been on this side of the State. The leaders do not seem to
be so sanguine. This may, however, be a _ruse de guerre_
preparatory to a grand push in the spring. I am rejoiced that you
have escaped from sickness this summer. My family has enjoyed
excellent health, and the neighborhood--as heretofore. We should
be glad to see you amongst us; and a friendly visit from you
would give _me_ peculiar pleasure. I have not seen Mr. Pell since
the morning, when I received your letter. I shall deliver your
message to him, and I beg you to believe me your sincere friend,

M. BIRKBECK.
TO GOVERNOR COLES,
Vandalia.

GOVERNOR COLES TO MORRIS BIRKBECK

VANDALIA, January 29, 1824.

_My Dear Sir_:--I had the pleasure to receive, in due course of
mail, your letter of the 6th ulto., together with six of your