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New York, 11th mo., 11th, 1815. RESPECTED FRIEND, I have had considerable conversation with ourmutual friend, Judah Colt, Esq. of the town of Erie,on the subject of the proposed Canal from Erie tothe Hudson, and being extremely desirous of know-ing the sentiments of the citizens of your State rela-ting to a plan, that appears to me, so interesting toyou as well as to us, I take the liberty, in conformityto the recommendation of my friend Colt, to crave ofthee, to give me such information as may be in thypower. I have been, for twenty years, a Director inthe West Inland Canal Company of this State, andhave frequently visited our western country; and asone of the Commissioners appointed by our legisla-ture, for the consideration of all matters relating tothe improvement of the internal navigation of theState, I explored in company with the said Com-missioners all our western waters, as far as LakeErie. I mention these circumstances, merely toaccount for the zeal I may discover, in wishing topromote an object of the highest importance, andincalculable value, as it regards the state of NewYork, and most of the other States in the Union.No person who has sufficiently reflected on the sub-ject, would hesitate one moment on account of thecost, as it is a well known fact, that the resources ofthis State alone, are fully equal to the undertaking.During the late war, the subject of course did notcommand much public attention, but since we haveenjoyed the blessings of peace, the minds of most ofour citizens appear to be anxious to have it accom-plished. Still we shall have many difficulties to en-counter—with the timid, who are afraid of the expense—and the ignorant, who are incapable of apprecia-ting its importance and advantages. I have lately received a letter from a gentleman, who resides on theAllegany River in this State, who states he has latelybeen in the State of Ohio, as far as the falls of the