Encloses two letters from WW, one to R. L. Shiel in Oct. 1850, and one to JH, as Shiel's successor, dated 17 Dec. 1850. Both letters state WW's response to Shiel's announcement of proposed changes in organization of Mint. Appeals to JH to reconsider plan to deprive WW of use of Mint machinery for WW's private engraving contracts. Protests abolition of office of probationer engraver, for which WW's son has been training.