remarking that he thought the Editorship should not be left to a person who only supplies and is responsible for, a dry detail of shipping intelligence. I think no one will deny that the Messenger has fallen off very much lately. I have been turning over in my own mind, lately, a plan by which I think the style and interest of the articles might be much improved, I have refrained from making any observations to Mr. Smith on the subject, because I believe he cherishes the idea that it never was so well conducted. I shall at any rate be prepared to submit to you upon your return a system for its better publication in the hope that inasmuch as His Ex. has Desired a change in the Editorship, you may be willing to recommend that I should at least have the opportunity of trying my hand at conducting the paper. I remain My dear Sir Very respectfully yours William B. Baker