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Sir:

Various Reports having been Circulated on the reasons for the return of Mr. Rucker from Europe, I thought it advisable to write to

Mr. Constable for such a Statement thereof as he might choose to give. Inclosed You have the Correspondence of the Truth of which I have the fullest Reliance. You know that we shall have credit on the Books of the Treasury on the receipt for the delivery of the Tobacco. Nevertheless I have judged it necessary to give you this information in Opposition to any reports unfavourable to the Credit of the Contractors.

I submit to your Excellency the propriety of Communicating this information to the Public in General, though it is intended by me only for your Satisfaction & that of your Friends.

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