New- York, February 26, 1799. DEAR SIR I last night received your letter, dated yesterday the resolutions of the- : ;

Common Council discover a mistake as to the character under which the gentlemen named in them, made their communication to yourself and the Recorder. They did not pretend to appear in an official capacity, but intended to be considered merely as private individuals. As such they gave information which they thought might be useful to the city. Specific propositions in writing were requested from, not proposed by, them they were sent in an informal shape, because it was not meant to ;

attach formality to their interposition. Having been digested by me, as the sum of a previous conversation among ourselves, I have no objection to authenticate them by my signature and I freely add, that the changes in the plan of the Corporation, which they suggest, have the full concurrence of my opinion, With respect and esteem, I am, dear sir, your obedient servant, RICHARD VARICK, ESQ.. A. HAMILTON.

Communication accompanying this Letter. Among the objects agreed on all hands to be necessary towards preserving the city from pestilential disease, are the following :

I. The conveyance of water in pipes through every part of this city, as well for the more convenient cleaning and washing of streets, alleys and lanes, as for the supply of the inhabitants. Then follow four other provisions as to draining low grounds, filling up slips, &c. As to the first point, the plan proposed by the Corporation is, that the business shall be executed by the Corporation for their own benefit and that, towards enabling them ;