John Hanson to Thomas Sim Lee

I am honored with your Excellencys two letters of the 3d and 4th instant. It would give me pleasure at all times to be serviceable to any Gentleman honored with your Excellencys recommendation, and more especially when it is in favour of one for whom (as in the present instance) I have a personal esteem & regard. But I must inform your Excellency that untill all the states have passed similar Laws granting the 5 Per Cent Duty, no Commissioners Can be appointed. Hitherto the State of Rhode Island has refused or delayed to Adopt the measure and before it is probable any thing will be done, my time in Congress will have Expired.

I have bespoke a hat, price Six pounds, it shall be Sent to your Excellency by the first Opportunity. No news in Town worth Communicating, nor any intelligence from our ministers abroad since my last. Inclosed is this days paper, and have the honor to be with esteem and regard,

Dear Sir, Your Excellencys most humble Servt,

J.H.