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[Penciled at top of page:] 2 Foote [the latter partly obscured]

Wiscasset Nov. 16.1820

Dear Sir

Yours of the 14th was recd. & you will see it have due attention - I took the liberty to vary a little, which it is hoped is approved -

If any thing further strikes you as proper & necessary to be done in this business, please to say and I will see it done -

The practice of having Justices of the Peace through the State, appears to be recognised by the Constitution of Massachusetts - Chap.r 6 Art 2 0 [four underlined] - but not by our Constitution, except by inference [one underlined] -

The tenure however, that all Commissioned Officers have by virtue of the Commission, being expressed therein, I am inclined to the opinion that it is a matter of discretion & expediency with the Governor, whether to appoint any Justices of the Peace through the State -

You will see by the Resolve of our Legislature that the votes for Electors be returned, on or before [three underlined] the 20.th of Nov.r & are to be examined by the Governor & Council -

The Towns to be heard from in this District are Vinalhaven & Deer Isle - as the votes now stand Mr. Hill is elected by 57.

Yours truly E. Foote