Rufus King Letters for the years 1790 thru 1821

London, ENG - 18 March 1790

According to present appearances, the war must recommence between France and Austria, if it has not already begun ; but that an honest and solid confederacy against France is likely to take place between the great powers

London, ENG - 12 November 1796

The declaration of war by Spain, at a moment when England appeared to be making serious efforts to conclude a general peace, strengthens the belief of many that France prefers still to continue the war.

London, ENG - 6 February 1797

Some uneasiness has been manifest here for some few weeks past, concerning the situation of the British territories in the East Indies.

New York, NY - 7 February 1807

It appears that our Negotiators in England have not yet finished their Treaty, owing, as is said, to a difficulty respecting the seamen.

unknown - 30 March 1807

I recd. your Paper concerning the Impressment of our seamen but have delayed its publication in expectation of becoming acquainted with the Contents of the Treaty.

unknown - 30 June 1807

I am sorry to remark that I am able to discern but little probability of your receiving adequate encouragement to continue to devote your time and talents to the important and laborious investigation, in wh. for so many years you have been engaged.

Jamaica, NY - 13 July 1807

If the weather should be good, I think of making you a visit on Thursday

Jamaica, NY - 31 July 1807

I shall attend the Meeting of the Trustees of Columbia College advertised for Monday next, and invite you to meet me in town

New York, NY - 11 September 1807

Concerning our disputes with England, I have never believed they could end in war, unless Congress engage in the management of our foreign affairs.

unknown - 31 December 1807

The embargo has excited the most profound alarm, and will here occasion real and extensive distress.

unknown - 7 January 1808

There is not a particle of doubt that full Reparation will be made for the affair of the Chesapeake ; nor will any honest man be persuaded that the business of impressment is now more than heretofore cause of War.

unknown - 19 January 1808

Mr. Rose has it in his power to separate the Case of the Chesapeake from all other matters, and without doubt will do so.

unknown - 24 January 1808

With regard to our affairs with England, if Mr. R. [Rose] be a man of talents and temper, he will prevent a rupture between the two Countries

New York, NY - 24 January 1808

Mr. Pendleton supposes that the administration will relinquish their Claim to all naturalized seamen provided G. Br. will discontinue the Practice of impressing on the Ocean.

New York, NY - 0 February 1808

Mr. Rose's Mission had special reference to the affair of the Chesapeake and perhaps this is his sole business.

unknown - 5 February 1808

Republican Members of Congress to nominate candidates for the offices of President & Vice President. Messrs. Madison and Clinton being the nominees.

unknown - 16 February 1808

My opinion has been that Jefferson would, if he could avoid it, go to war with neither France nor England : but if France imposed upon him the alternative of fighting her or England, that he would make a choice of the latter for his enemy.

New York, NY - 4 March 1808

Peace can no longer be maintained with both France and England, and in the choice of an enemy England will be preferred.

New York, NY - 10 March 1808

your talents as a public man especially in these hard and portentous times have appeared to me of great value.

New York, NY - 2 April 1808

On my return from Long Island where I have been attending to my garden, I recd. your kind letter of the 25th. ulto. with a copy of the correspondence with England respecting the Chesapeake.

New York, NY - 12 April 1808

It may be apprehended that the issue of the Massachusetts Election will encourage our Rulers to persevere in measures, that must prove ruinous to the Trade & Navigation of the Northern States.

Jamaica, NY - 28 July 1808

Tho' the poor child's wound was extremely hazardous, and the danger is not yet passed, he has, thanks to God, suffered very little pain

Jamaica, NY - 27 September 1808

Perhaps the Democrats in no State are more generally and efficiently united in favour of Madison than in this State.

Jamaica, NY - 10 October 1808

If the alternative be war or Embargo, as Mr. Jefferson alleges to be the case, I conclude that the Embargo will be continued.

Jamaica, NY - 1 December 1808

Mr. Madison to avoid the charge of acquiescence, has contended that the Berlin Decree did not infringe our Neutral Rights in any case antecedent to the case of the Horizon.

New York, NY - 12 December 1808

Not being of the political faith that is here at present in favour, I pass my time in the bosom of my family, thinking and saying as little as I can upon the subject of politicks.

New York, NY - 5 January 1809

We daily receive alarming rumours, from the seat of Govt

New York, NY - 15 January 1809

By reason of his sagacity and fidelity Mr. Jay incurred the displeasure of the French Court, which did not fail to show itself here afterwards through the French Ministers.

unknown - 31 January 1809

With regard to Mr. Jefferson's sincerity in seeking a good understanding with Eng., I will mention a fact, that has appeared to me of great significance.

New York, NY - 7 February 1809

If the Law be repealed, which forbids our merchants to arm their vessels, every one will be at liberty, as he ought to be, to arm or not to arm

New York, NY - 15 February 1809

The Law wh. authorized the Pr. to interdict our ports to the Br. Navy expires with the present session of Congress ; it will not be revived.

New York, NY - 9 April 1809

perhaps the Eng. Cabinet may desire to resume the negotiation, upon the belief, or supposition, that Mr. Madison will act with more impartiality than Mr. Jefferson

unknown - 27 April 1809

Should you think of the establishment of a check upon your Treasury, I shd. think it might be done by the establishment of a Comptroller

Jamaica, NY - 3 August 1809

The War on the Continent is too complicated for me, without more information to form a correct opinion respecting it.

Jamaica, NY - 6 August 1809

I ... send you the following Extract of a Letter from our old friend D. P. dated Paris July 1st 1809.

New York, NY - 25 December 1809

In respect to Mr. Jackson, it is true that I opposed his being sent to this Country as the successor of Mr. Liston

unknown - 2 January 1810

Whatever may be the ultimate aim of our Rulers, if any such they have, their present object seems to be mostly to gain time, and to do nothing.

New York, NY - 26 January 1810

I have for some time apprehended, that the Administration, embarrassed by the domestic difficulties into which they have plunged the country, have meditated a connection with the continental powers of Europe

unknown - 19 February 1810

The offering of Gerry as their candidate cannot have been very satisfactory, and does not manifest great confidence of success

New York, NY - 5 March 1810

The Packet which arrived yesterday brings London news to Jany. 12.

New York, NY - 6 March 1810

The dismission of Mr. Jackson is regarded as a confirmation of what was before strongly suspected, that our administration are unwilling to settle the misunderstandings with England

New York, NY - 21 March 1810

You probably are apprized that the Conveyance by Trinity Church of the ground on which the College stands contains a condition, that conformably to a provision of the Charter, requires that the President be an Episcopalian

New York, NY - 24 February 1811

I would plant a Hedge of this Thorn in the Spring, of about 40 Rods, provided Mr. Main could supply the plants, and should be of opinion that I should succeed upon a level piece of Ground

unknown - 0 August 1811

I have received and am much obliged to you for the tracts which you kindly sent me

New York, NY - 10 December 1811

Naturalization when it confers new rights, does not, and cannot dissolve, old duties, the performance of which within his own or a common Jurisdiction, the former sovereign may compel.

Jamaica, NY - 17 July 1812

have understood, and from a pretty direct channel, that the Expedition agt. Canada is postponed, and that it will not proceed this year.

Jamaica, NY - 9 September 1812

The imbecillity of Madison is daily more manifest, still his friends and party in general adhere to him.

Jamaica, NY - 19 September 1812

there was no evidence exhibited that Mr. Clinton, with the aid of the federalists, can be elected, and, if elected, that he will pursue a better system than that of Mr. Madison.

Jamaica, NY - 23 October 1812

...but between him and Mr. Clinton for reasons which in my judgment deeply concern the public liberties, I prefer the election of Mr. Madison.

unknown - 28 October 1812

I send you for yr. amusement the morning Chronicle for August.

Jamaica, NY - 14 February 1813

You will have observed in the Public Paper the notice of my appointment to the Senate ; this decision has created some embarrassment in my mind

Jamaica, NY - 7 March 1813

I yesterday wrote a confidential letter to Gov. Strong concerning your appointment to the Senate

unknown - 18 March 1813

I this evening received such an answer as I expected and desired from - (Gov. Strong).

Jamaica, NY - 29 March 1813

A separation of the Churches, so that each Shepherd may have his own Flock, can alone put an end to these Disputes.

New York, NY - 28 April 1813

My son, Mr. Charles King, who is the bearer of this letter, will embark in a few days for Lisbon, from whence he may find it necessary to proceed to England

New York, NY - 28 April 1813

Upon the presumption that my son, Mr. Charles King, will be permitted to go from Lisbon to London, I have taken the liberty to give to him this Letter of Introduction to you

Jamaica, NY - 29 August 1813

The Russian Minister soon after informed Mr. Adams that the Emperor was pleased to learn that the war with England could not lead to any new connexion between America and France

Jamaica, NY - 30 September 1813

...if Col. Pickering be right in his supposition that Russia has not authorized the offer of her mediation, it is very extraordinary that no intimation has been made in the English Papers

Jamaica, NY - 22 October 1813

Perry's victory (to applaud which I was glad to see you took a part) has enabled Harrison to recover Detroit and invade upper Canada.

Jamaica, NY - 1 November 1813

Being in town to-day I saw Doct. Mason, and asked him if the Report circulated under his name and authority, of what Col. Hamilton told him a little before his death, was true

Washington, MD - 19 December 1813

With sixty thousand men all Canada may be conquered, says Genl. Armstrong (who would be named Lieutenant Genl., if he could), in a single campaign

Washington, MD - 9 January 1814

To Admiral Warren's proposal of an armistice in 1812, Mr. Monroe replied, that notwithstanding the Repeal of the orders in Council, the subject of impressment remained unadjusted

Washington, MD - 26 January 1814

I send you enclosed an extract of a letter that I received by my son Charles from Sir William Scott.

Washington, MD - 10 April 1814

But so long as the Enemy keeps up the Blockade, altho' English Goods may come in, the Produce of the Country not being suffered to go out, the Payment for Eng. Goods must be made in Specie

Jamaica, NY - 24 May 1814

Democracy honored & loved Louis XVI. - it loved & honored Robespierre & Company who murdered him, it loved and honored Bonaparte who overturned them, and should it happen that Louis 18th expels Bonaparte...

Jamaica, NY - 11 July 1814

It is manifest that the democratic Party are disappointed, and confounded, by the overthrow of Bonaparte - they affect to be, and perhaps are, alarmed at the Politics of England

Jamaica, NY - 15 July 1814

The Drain of Specie that is imperceptible, has the effect to lessen the cash at the Bks throughout the U. S.

Jamaica, NY - 30 August 1814

...the disgraceful loss of the Capital and the agitation it has excited brought me to town ; where the effect upon the Populace is such as might be expected.

Jamaica, NY - 2 September 1814

Yesterday I was in town to assist on the occasion of the Stoppage of the Specie Payments of the Bks. - I found everybody well inclined to adopt any measures

Jamaica, NY - 2 September 1814

What we feared has come to pass ; the Public credit has failed. The Banks in this quarter are obliged to stop the payment of specie and I presume the same causes will have the same effect at Boston and with you.

Washington, MD - 0 October 1814

Crawford writes from Paris that Eng. influence pervades all the States of Europe; that none are disposed to listen to our Representatives agt. England

Washington, MD - 13 October 1814

Even Mr. Madison lately complained that the Ears of every Court in Europe were closed against us ; such, as he says, have been the intrigues and misrepresentations of England

Washington, MD - 14 October 1814

Early in this month, the Federalists of the two Houses of Congress met at Crawford's to consider of the course which they ought to pursue during the Session.

Washington, MD - 19 October 1814

Genl. Lewis is removed from his command ; and that Govr. Tompkins has been requested to repair immediately to the City to command the Forces.

Washington, MD - 21 October 1814

Monroe proposes to fill the regular army to 62 thousand, by conscription

unknown - 23 November 1814

Another of the patriots of the revolution is gone...

Washington, MD - 11 December 1814

description

Washington, MD - 8 January 1815

...a Bill, which required of the Militia of the several States, to furnish recruits for the regular army, under the penalty of being themselves drafted to serve in the prosecution of the war.

Georgetown, MD - 7 February 1815

Mr. Gallatin's Plan of Finance for the war, was to raise by Taxes within the year sufficient to support the Peace Establishment, taken at 7. mills., and to pay the interest upon the old & new Debt

Georgetown, MD - 11 February 1815

General Jackson who had charge of the Tennessee troops in the Creek war, had been ordered to proceed from Mobile to N. Orleans, and his militia, as well as that of Kentucky and Louisiana...

Washington, MD - 12 February 1815

The People must feel the inconvenience, & suffer the punishment, of their own folly, before they will consent to renounce it.

Washington, MD - 15 February 1815

We have received the Treaty of Peace: it will be considered by the Senate tomorrow.

Jamaica, NY - 21 March 1815

Having had a quiet, and uninterrupted day or two here, I have endeavored to revise, and pass over again, the occupations in which during the three last sessions we have been engaged

Jamaica, NY - 22 May 1815

Of the opinions in France, I scarcely think it worth while to enquire, France is ruled by the sword ; and those whose profession is plunder and violence call for rulers and leaders who are attached to, and masters of, the business.

Jamaica, NY - 22 July 1815

we ought not perhaps to be obliged to Messrs Clay & Gallatin for their selection ; had they employed one of their Secretaries I shd have been as well satisfied.

unknown - 29 August 1815

When I adjusted the countervailing Duties under Mr Jay's treaty, the Duties on Potash, Lumber, Masts, Timber, &c. were the same as these articles imported from Canada & Nova Scotia.

Jamaica, NY - 2 November 1815

Mr. Burke has remarked that all men professing unlimited and discretionary power tending to their own advantage abuse it, and we are not to expect a miraculous interposition to alter the laws of nature.

Jamaica, NY - 4 November 1815

On Wednesday Mr. Gracie gave a Breakfast to the Count Survilliers, alias J. B.; the Count St. Jean D'Angely and three or four young Frenchmen came with the great Personage

Washington, MD - 23 December 1815

Mr. Jay's Treaty opened to us the navigation of the St. Lawrence as low down as Quebec ; from this we are to be excluded hereafter.

unknown -

I have received your letter of the 17th inst, which informs me that I have been elected a Manager of the American Bible Society ; and calls on me to make known whether I accept the appointment.

unknown -

My nomination at Albany, as you will have believed, was a surprize to me

Washington, MD - 1 January 1816

Laying aside the amusements, the occupations & pursuits of the past, it behoves you to adjust your condition, employment & expectation, and to fix your whole mind to the scene that surrounds you

Georgetown, MD - 6 January 1816

Indeed the public will have no small interest in placing a Bk. in Indiana. The intention has been with a view of aiding the Revenue, and its collection, that Branches should be established through't. the U. S.

Washington, MD - 2 March 1816

description

Washington, VA - 7 March 1816

On presenting to the Secretary of War, the claim of the City of N. York for the reimbursement of money paid on account of damages to the land, on which the works for its defence were erected in 1814, the Secretary replies that the amount cannot be al

Washington, MD - 9 March 1816

I have had the Honour to receive your letter of February the 16th, informing me, that by a Convention of Delegates from the several Counties of the State, I had been nominated a Candidate for the office of Governor

unknown - 9 March 1816

You may have heard that I have been nominated at Albany a Candidate for the off. of Govr. This was quite a surprize

Washington, VA - 9 March 1816

We have here some symptoms of the declining influence of Mr. M. ; as he draws towards his close, his authority diminishes ; expectations are directed beyond his term.

Washington, VA - 28 March 1816

Circumstances, occasioned by absence from home, brought me reluctantly to consent to become a Candidate for the off. of Gov. I entertain little expectation of being elected and no personal desire to be so.

Washington, MD - 19 April 1816

The perseverance with which I am censured for having interfered to prevent the emigration of the Irish chiefs to this Country, has induced me to think that a little explanation might be useful.

Washington, VA - 1 May 1816

The Tariff which Congress have passed, is an important measure ; its provisions calculated to protect the manufactures of wool & Cotton have been matter of considerable division among our political Economists.

Elizabethtown - 14 May 1816

After Mrs. King went up stairs last Evening, Gilmour the Trader returning from the West with Cash and Horses, came into my room.

Jamaica, NY - 15 May 1816

As regards what I deem the best policy of the Country, as well as the purity and duration of our Institutions, I ought to regret this manifestation of public opinion.

Jamaica, NY - 19 May 1816

As I have informed you we accompanied Mr. Gore to Frederic, Mard. ; here we parted, he crossing the Potomac at Harper's Ferry on his way to the Warm Springs, Va.

Jamaica, NY - 21 May 1816

the Federalists will be able to assist the true interests of Freedom & of Justice, by giving their influence to the least wicked Section of the Republicans.

Jamaica, NY - 18 June 1816

I am satisfied with the Resolution which you seem to have formed of abstaining from Political discussions and devoting yourself to those of the Law

Jamaica, NY - 26 June 1816

I am not inclined to oppose measures proposed or done by Republicans, which Federalists proposed and did in former times.

Jamaica, NY - 29 September 1816

While abroad I took some pains, (by ascertaining from the members of the Corps diplomatique at London the best maps of their respective Countries, and employing Mr. Faden to procure them) to make what I esteem a valuable and extensive Collection of M

Jamaica, NY - 5 November 1816

We are like to lose, if we have not already lost, one of our distinguished citizens. Mr. Gouverneur Morris was not expected to live thro yesterday. He has been long subject to a stricture in the urinary Passage

Jamaica, NY - 22 November 1816

Mason & Webster with their wives have passed a night with us, and we went to town yesterday, which we rarely do, except for little commissions, to meet them at dinner at Mr. Gracie's.

Baltimore, MD - 26 December 1816

Tomorrow morning we shall proceed to the metropolis. I shall go to Crawford's, when I shall decide to remain or remove as I shall find expedient.

unknown - 0 January 1817

Congress have done little ; the H. of R. have consumed much time in unprofitable debate on the Compensation Law.

Crawfords, VA - 2 January 1817

It has been reported that Mr. Adams has been, or will be, recalled to be Secy, of State ; I hear that Mr. Clay says this must not, and shall not be

Georgetown, VA - 17 January 1817

Your great men from Boston have not yet appeared ; when they arrive, I hope they may find out better quarters than these at Georgetown.

Senate Chamber, VA - 30 January 1817

Within the last week it is said with much confidence, that J. Q. Adams is to be the Secretary of State ; the competitors having been J. Q. A., Gallatin & Crawford.

Crawfords, VA - 2 February 1817

Adams seems to be still the more probable successor to the Dept. of State. It has been taken for granted that Crowninshield wd. retire with Mr. Madison..

Crawfords, VA - 16 February 1817

The new Ministry still a matter of mere conjecture some persons suspect that there has been no real intention to place J. Q. A. in the Dept. of State, that the report was circulated to draw off the pub. attention from Clay.

Crawfords, VA - 17 February 1817

I recd. to day yours of inclosing a letter for Trumbull. I believe that you are misinformed of the sum to be paid to him for two or three of his Paintings that are taken by the Academy of N. Y.

Crawfords, VA - 19 February 1817

Like a tigress she immediately turned on Crawford and what business have you with my husband, what are you looking at him for?

Crawfords, VA - 21 February 1817

In the Senate, we have a resolution brought forward to reduce the army to 5000 men. If the Taxes had been repealed, the reduction of the army would have necessarily followed

unknown - 23 February 1817

Poor Grosvenor continues dangerously ill, and I am really afraid will die.

Crawfords, VA - 2 March 1817

To day, as I have done each Sunday, I confine myself to my room taking a bowl of broth only for my dinner. As usual many bills are crowded upon us on the last day or two of the session.

Jamaica, NY - 13 March 1817

It is not easy to foretell the course wh. Mr. Monroe will pursue. I think he will meet with difficulties ; already, or I mistake much

Jamaica, NY - 17 April 1817

...as regards the order of Connecticut, I have no apprehension that Mr. Wolcott's administration will be less favorable than Mr. Smith's.

Jamaica, NY - 12 June 1817

The President arrived in town on Wednesday, having passed the preceeding day with the Vice Pr. at Staten Island ; having on consideration thought it expedient to make my congratulations & compliments, I went to town in season to be there on his arriv

Jamaica, NY - 21 June 1817

Govr. Wolcott was to be at New Haven to receive the President ; he wd. proceed to New London, New Port, & Providence, thence to the Head Quarters of good principles.

Jamaica, NY - 4 July 1817

I was sorry to see it announced that you had relinquished your seat in the Senate. To the force of some of the motives that have influenced you on this occasion I am not insensible.

Jamaica, NY - 15 July 1817

I have recd. your Letter of and am pleased that the President availed himself of the opportunity, while in your neighbourhood, to make you a visit.

unknown - 0 October 1817

Nothing but the injurious consequences to the house of A. Gracie & Sons, that may follow the condemnation of their Ships Rolla and Protectress with their cargoes could have induced me again to address your Lordship on this subject.

Georgetown, VA - 30 November 1817

Mrs. King and myself arrived here last evening and the force of habit has set us down again at Crawford's. . . .

Washington, VA - 14 December 1817

We have no controvercy with any power but Spain, and she is hardly worth attention ; hence we are to enjoy perpetual Peace.

Washington, VA - 20 December 1817

Lessons in money making I do not think myself very competent to render ; but as regards many ways in which money is lost, I have not been an inattentive looker on, and can therefore speak from experience.

Washington, VA - 31 December 1817

Gaines is ordered from the Creek Command to take charge of the expedition agt Amelia ; & Jackson directed to finish the Indn. War.

unknown -

As the old Party no longer exists, it is desirable that the country be reunited as far as possible not for the sake of such men as I am, for our day is past ; but for the sake of the Country, whose destinies are daily unfolding themselves...

Georgetown, VA - 3 January 1818

Crawford, it is whispered, cannot support himself on his Salary, and talks of retirement. Whether this be the real motive, or an unwillingness to figure in the approaching contest, or whether the whisper be correct, we know not.

Washington, VA - 6 January 1818

The Memorialists, as I have abundant reason to know, entertained full confidence that the business of sending supplies to the Peninsula, would be protected from the hostile molestation of England.

Washington, VA - 18 January 1818

Your Legislature, it seems, intend taxing the U. S. Branches, that are placed in the State of Ohio. I am not clear that they have, or have not, such a power

Washington, VA - 12 February 1818

the Crown prohibited all purchases from the Indians by individuals ; whenever the progress of settlement required, and the Indians were willing to sell, lands, the same were ceded by the Indians to the Crown, which in its turn, protected the Indians

unknown - 13 February 1818

The South American question will when brought forward excite a good deal of attention. My own opinion is to let S. America alone, and so long as other Powers do not meddle, to leave the struggle to those who are engaged in it.

Georgetown, VA - 0 March 1818

The President continues that same course of professions which was so engaging in the course of his Eastern tour. This is more befitting a Sec. of State, who decides nothing, than a Pr. who decides all things.

unknown - 1 March 1818

As you will have seen, and as perhaps I have already informed you, the Bkrupt bill has failed. The South and the West seem resolutely opposed to it ; and yet neither are much concerned in commerce, or affected by the provisions of a system of Bkruptc

unknown - 4 March 1818

Here we have to day taken a measure in the Senate of no ordinary character, to the accomplishment of which I have given all my strength.

unknown - 15 March 1818

I do not know how, but there seems to be a good deal of trade not only between Jamaica and the Spanish continental Colonies, but likewise between N. Orleans & Vera Cruz.

Washington, VA - 22 March 1818

It has been said that Eng. has given to Spain a sum of money, to hasten her abolition of the Slave Trade, and that this money has been, or is to be, paid to Russia for these Ships of war.

unknown - 5 April 1818

Banks, more than others, should be moderate in their plans : when so many of these institutions exist, greater moderation than elsewhere is requisite.

unknown - 5 April 1818

The Senate have passed a Bill, in which I have assisted, closing the ports of the U. S. against Brit. Vessels coming from any port ... of G. Br. that is by the ordinary laws of navigation & trade, closed agt. vessels of the U. S.

unknown - 5 April 1818

The time is favorable : other Nations are moving in order to abridge the advantages of Eng. Monopoly ; and this co-operation will increase the probability of success.

unknown - 12 April 1818

The period had arrived, when we were to decide whether we wd. acquiesce forever in the Eng. monopoly of this great branch of navigation & trade, or meet their exclusion of us, by the exclusion of them.

unknown - 12 April 1818

The navigation law has passed with an extraordinary majority. It is a very strong and important measure

Crawfords, VA - 21 April 1818

We have morever passed a Navigation Law, that, after September, closes our ports against Brit, vessels coming from British ports, closed against Amer. Vessels. This is a strong measure, but called for, as I believe, by a just regard for Amer. Navigat

Washington, VA - 21 April 1818

We are not like the ox, who when his belly is full lies down on the green bank, and is quiet until more food is wanted. Men are unhappy without excitement and impatient when every thing is quiet and stationary. They want change and strive to make it.

Elkton, PA - 26 April 1818

We left Georgetown on Friday. . . . Mr. Otis and wife were off the last day of the Session. He it seems has given up his Judgeship, and embarks his fortune on his success in the Senate.

Jamaica, NY - 5 May 1818

Webster acquitted himself with the highest credit & produced the strongest sentiments of respect and admiration. Mr. H. fell below mediocrity, and, as I conceive from the current reports, lost all pretensions to the character of a man of distinguishe

Jamaica, NY - 19 May 1818

I am not informed, nor curious to be so, whether there is a disposition in our Legislature to reappoint me. I shall neither decline nor solicit a reappointment

Jamaica, NY - 28 June 1818

I will desire Charles or James to send you a Copy of the Speech that I made in the Senate on the Navigation Act. The subject is one of a good deal of importance.

Jamaica, NY - 28 June 1818

Mr. Madison's Resolutions wh. embraced a Regulation of the Eng. colonial trade (not its prohibition, unless we equally shared in it) had for their purpose to constitute a fund to indemnify our Citizens, whose vessels were taken

Jamaica, NY - 12 July 1818

It is by dominion on the ocean that not only national safety, but national glory are to be attained, & it is by this power chiefly that the Eastern States will be enabled to retain that influence & authority in the national councils

Jamaica, NY - 3 September 1818

according to the directions which they contain I have had the Charts, and Maps and the Case in which they have been placed, carefully packed in two large packing cases

unknown - 6 November 1818

The papers inform us of the loss of the Exchange Coffee house by fire, and that Mr. Clay lost a part of his baggage. The fire is said to have commenced in the billiard room it is to be hoped that the Speaker had not been among the negligent players.

Washington, VA - 18 November 1818

The portion of the Message that treats of Pensacola, Jackson's campaign &c, may give satisfaction ; but I do not think that its justification, if made out, is placed on the correct ground.

unknown - 5 December 1818

The over issue, and excess, of Bank Notes is the true cause of the present difficulty. There is no practical check of this excess except the convertibility of these notes into specie...

Washington, VA - 31 December 1818

The National Intelligencer of yesterday contains a long letter from Mr. Secy. Adams to Mr. Erving, Madrid, purporting to be an instruction, or an answer to Pizarro's manifest or letter to Erving relative to Jackson's invasion of Florida

Washington, VA - 14 January 1819

I have a letter from John of the 8th, and write to him by this mail concerning what is passing here...

Washington, VA - 16 January 1819

The Jackson debate will be hot and angry ; the current agt. him, I think grows stronger.

Washington, VA - 20 January 1819

The House are engaged in a great debate respecting Jackson's Campaign ; it will continue several days longer ; the issue is not well understood...

Washington, VA - 23 January 1819

The Bk. Report discloses the dishonorable and injurious proceedings of the Confederacy of Speculators in Balte. and Philadelphia and has had the effect to shake the public confidence in the Bk. and will also impair our credit abroad

Georgetown, VA - 6 February 1819

They fought with muskets at 10 paces, each musket charged with two or three balls. Mason was mortally wounded and died in a short time

Crawfords, VA - 7 February 1819

You will understand how very few men have any correct notions on the subject of money, as a currency, and will therefore easily comprehend the confusion of ideas the utter ignorance of a correct theory, as well as the rash & intemperate measures...

unknown - 9 February 1819

This McCarthy complied with, arrived on Friday, recd, the challenge, accepted it, and proposed that he and Mason shd. each sit on the same barrel of gun powder with each a torch, and that either might touch the powder.

unknown - 10 February 1819

The time may come when this may be proper, and Mr. Clinton made to feel there are limits to forbearance.

Washington, VA - 11 February 1819

It has long been my opinion that it wd. be good policy in every direction, that the District of Maine shd. be separated from Mass., politically as it is naturally, and admitted as a new State into the Union.

Senate Chamber, VA - 11 February 1819

If Mr. C. throws away his claim to my forbearance, I shall not offend in not permitting him to attempt my degradation, without suffering something in his turn.

Georgetown, VA - 12 February 1819

I regard this duel as ferocious, barbarous and savage, repugnant to any code of honor, where the thirst for blood or the malignant purpose of destroying the life of another are the motives, instead of the desire to protect individual honor

Washington, VA - 20 February 1819

Spain cedes the Floridas in sovereignty, and in consideration thereof the U. S. release Spain from all claims by American citizens on account of illegal captures, condemnations &c and engage to satisfy these claims to an amount not exceeding five mil

unknown - 12 March 1819

We consider our journey in a great measure past, as the greater part of the bad roads and miserable inns are behind us.

Jamaica, NY - 17 July 1819

Our commerce is at a stand ; no one feels confidence that a voyage of any sort, or to any country, will be more likely to give profit than loss.

Jamaica, NY - 26 August 1819

I took occasion last winter to confer with you respecting a claim of my friends A. Gracie & Sons, upon the French Govt. ; and the instruction respecting the same afterwards given to Mr. Gallatin led to the hope...that their losses would also be made

unknown - 27 October 1819

I must remonstrate agt. the publication of facts that in conversation I may have mentioned ; and think it altogether improper that the transaction respecting Mr. Clinton's electioneering measures at Boston shd. be coupled with the late misrepresentat

Jamaica, NY - 22 November 1819

Conformably to your request in behalf of the committee appointed by the late meeting in the city, on the business of the Missouri Bill, I have the honor to send you the substance of two speeches, that I delivered in the Senate...

Jamaica, NY - 30 November 1819

I did not, until my return last evening, receive your letter of the 23d., requesting a copy of my speech in the Senate on the Missouri Bill. I have much reason to believe that the Society over which you preside... have overrated my poor efforts

Jamaica, NY - 14 January 1820

I likewise received from Mr. Bacon, on the part of the Senate, information of my appointment

Jamaica, NY - 14 January 1820

I last evening recd the letter, of which a copy follows, from W. W. Van Ness

Georgetown, VA - 30 January 1820

I arrived on the 25th, found the Senate and House both engaged upon the Missouri Question, which engrosses the whole time and attention of Congress.

Washington, VA - 31 January 1820

The V. P. left us today at noon ; on his way he stopped at the Senate, and we had a short conference in one of the Committee Rooms.

Washington, VA - 6 February 1820

The Missouri question is still in debate;

Washington, VA - 11 February 1820

I have been very much engaged in the Missouri question

Washington, VA - 16 February 1820

having entered fully into the Missouri Debate, I have been so entirely engaged in it, that I have attended to nothing else.n

unknown - 16 February 1820

I observe that you have consented to admit the Judge to appear with Counsel before yr. Committee, and that the House have also employed on their part Counsel.

unknown - 17 February 1820

I have been deeply engaged in the Missouri question. Mr. P. had delivered his speech before my arrival ; it was pronounced by his admirers to be unanswerable...

unknown - 20 February 1820

The Missouri Bill is gone from the Senate, but meets with formidable opposition in the House of R.

unknown - 20 February 1820

The more I have thought of the course adopted by your Committee, and which has been sanctioned by your House, the more fully am I persuaded that it has been altogether erroneous

Washington, VA - 23 February 1820

I yesterday received the Columbian with Mr. Miller's indecent address to the public concerning the charge agt. him in the American.

unknown - 25 February 1820

The Missouri Bill remains as it was. Nothing decisive has occurred. I fear ill ; we are on slippery ground, and my experience teaches me that time here gives strength to the wrong side.

Washington, VA - 29 February 1820

The reception of the V. P., at Albany excited some considerable feeling ; what will be its effect, and how the struggle between him & Mr. C. will terminate, I am without the means of judging.

unknown - 0 March 1820

But when the opinions, and arguments ascribed by one speaker to another are not only stated, but the very words cited and marked by inverted commas, the public are naturally led to suppose such report to be correct even to the letter.

unknown - 0 March 1820

The subject of domestic slavery is one with which Mr. K. is very imperfectly acquainted and on which he has not bestowed much consideration

Washington, VA - 3 March 1820

The observation of a Compromise is therefore deceptive. The slave States with the requisite Recruits from the Senators & Representatives of the free States have carried the Question

Washington, VA - 4 March 1820

I will not however suffer my opinions respecting the Editors of the A. to be misrepresented, nor shall I acquiesce in being misrepresented concerning Mr. Clinton.

unknown - 5 March 1820

I shall not suffer Mr. Miller's misrepresentations, either in respect to the Editors of the American or of my sentiments or opinions respecting Mr. Clinton to go uncontradicted...

Washington, VA - 11 March 1820

We have been most shamefully deserted in the H. of R. on the Missouri Bill, which has given a great triumph to the slave States. The result will be fatal, unless the People apply the true corrective.

Washington, VA - 18 March 1820

My opinions of Mr. C. and his associates, I mean his recruits from the Federalists, are unchanged ; and I cannot ever be insensible of the liberal and very general support of the Republicans, who are opposed to Mr. Clinton.

Washington, VA - 20 March 1820

I received today from Charles the letter addressed to me by yourself and others relative to the course which you have elected to pursue, in the approaching election.

Washington, VA - 1 April 1820

I mentioned this subject to the Sec. of the Navy before I suggested it confidentially to Mr. Van Buren and to you, in order that the friends of the V. P. should be seasonably apprized

Washington, VA - 9 April 1820

I understand that Maine will return Holmes (as contemptible and vulgar a fellow as any one in the new State) to be one of her Senators.

Washington, VA - 22 April 1820

The situation of the Treasury is bad.

unknown - 28 April 1820

After a long session the H. of R. have this evening passed the Tariff Bill to be engrossed & read a third time by a majority of 12 or 15 : its fate in the Senate, which stands adjourned till Monday, is said to be doubtful.

unknown - 30 April 1820

On passing thro Paris Genl. Vives told Gallatin that he was not the bearer of the Ratification of the Treaty, but had power to consent to our occupation of Florida preliminarily, and thus to enter into further negotiations with the U. S.

Washington, VA - 4 May 1820

There will be no opposition to Mr. Monroe that I have heard of ; none is expected even from New York, whose Legislature in all probability will be anti-clintonian.

unknown - 8 May 1820

Congress will adjourn at farthest on this day week. Otis adjourned himself, and with his brother Mason went off yesterday.

Washington, VA - 9 May 1820

The Florida Message was sent to the two Houses of Congress to-day, and the tenor thereof is pacific as was anticipated.

Jamaica, NY - 25 May 1820

As Virginia has appealed to the respective States in the Missouri Question, I hope that your Legislature will not only sustain the appeal, but give judgment in the cause.

Jamaica, NY - 4 June 1820

I yesterday received your letter of the 30th past : its frankness is gratifying to me...

Jamaica, NY - 5 June 1820

The truth is we have no scholars, or so few that the value of the ancient authors is neither understood nor properly estimated : the young men are to study Chemistry, & Philosophy, and Eloquence...

Jamaica, NY - 6 July 1820

States like Men who fail in self-respect, are without title to the respect of others.

Jamaica, NY - 24 October 1820

I wish that I had been earlier apprised of the proposed plan of establishing a theological Seminary in this Diocese, and regret that it was not in my power to express my unwillingness to be chosen one of the V. Presidents of the Society

Washington, VA - 19 November 1820

It seems that the French Govt. required of Mr. Gallatin, authorized on our part ... to allow the admission of French vessels into Louisiana on the same footing as the vessels of England

Washington, VA - 21 November 1820

A committee of each House is charged with the Constitution of Missouri, and I am doubtful whether any business will be done before the question of the admission of the State be determined.

Washington, VA - 22 November 1820

The Clintonians here are encouraged in their hopes, and leave nothing undone to advance their views

unknown - 24 November 1820

The solicitude wh. manifests itself concerning the admission of Missouri convinces me that no business will be done until the question be settled.

unknown - 26 November 1820

As yet no business is done by Cong, and none will be done before the Missouri Decision be made tho the Senate does not probably create any solicitude, the House occasions a good deal.

Senate Chamber, VA - 29 November 1820

On Mr. Thompson's nomination being called up to-day, Mr. Sanford & myself according to usage were expected to say something respecting the Candidate.

unknown - 1 December 1820

The Pr. is in fine temper, the prospect of a unanimous Reelection very naturally excites these kindly feelings.

unknown - 18 December 1820

All the new States, whose Constitutions passed under the Revision of Congress, disregard property qualifications. Virginia adheres as yet, but she was obliged to make practical concessions

Washington, VA - 21 December 1820

I see that Mr. Clinton & friends are industrious in their labors to vindicate themselves, and to depreciate their opponents, among whom you are not omitted.

unknown - 24 December 1820

By the terms of office the Judiciary is exempt from the instability which belongs to, and is mingled up in the other Departments of our Govt.

unknown -

We have a difficult subject before us respecting the land Debt of 22 millions. The project will be to give the debtors time, and also to diminish a portion of the Debt

Washington, VA - 6 January 1821

Mr. Crawford's department is ill conducted : he shows neither zeal nor talent

Washington, VA - 9 January 1821

I yesterday saw & read Mr. Duer's speech in Orange. I think it very able and satisfactory.

unknown - 13 January 1821

There is no concord, and I fear little wisdom in the Cabinet in these matters : but flattering as the Exports certainly are Mr. Crawford will another year be obliged to propose taxes instead of loans.

Washington, VA - 19 January 1821

Mr. Monroe is reelected unanimously or nearly so, and nevertheless the plans or measures of Govt. are without friends in Congress

Washington, VA - 26 January 1821

We have before us a most difficult enquiry in the subject of the Debt due for pub. Lands. I have today offered a plan which with suitable correction amendment may produce good results in this perplexing business.

unknown - 11 February 1821

The green bag has made no proselytes here : on the contrary it has dissatisfied those, or at least some of them, who were friends of Mr. Clinton.

unknown - 18 February 1821

Last year Mr. Randolph said the dough faces of the north came over to them ; they had as many as they wanted, and could have had more : now he likens his opponents to sheep

unknown - 24 February 1821

Mr. Clay has got up a joint committee of 23 on the part of the House & 7. on that of the Senate respecting Missouri

Jamaica, NY - 22 June 1821

For a fortnight past I have been absent from home, attending the examination of the Cadets at W. Point.

Jamaica, NY - 23 June 1821

We have just passed thro an election of members to a State Convention, which is called to revise our Constitution, and among the persons chosen I have been named by this county.

Albany, NY - 18 September 1821

Our progress in the Convention is slow, but I preserve my confidence in the moderation and good sense of the members.

unknown - 2 October 1821

We made progress onwards to the Senate as the consenting body on the Governor's nomination. There we are to spend some time and still more on the appointment of Justices of the Peace by the People.

Albany, NY - 4 October 1821

The Constitution will not be as sound, and provisions which we may regret, may obtain insertion in the Constitution, by the pressure and agency of the Judges

Albany, NY - 6 October 1821

The Convention is engaged on Van Buren's report ; and the mode of appointing magistrates and sheriffs is the immediate subject of embarrassment.

Albany, NY - 9 October 1821

The Suffrage question as reported by the Comee. of 13. is established ; it is in effect universal suffrage ; the colored people except such as own freeholds of 250 Dol. are exempt from direct taxes, and denied a suffrage.

Albany, NY - 14 October 1821

It was my hope and intention to have been able to make you a visit this fall, but Congress will meet on the 3d. of Dec., and I shall barely have time to put my affairs in order

Albany, NY - 15 October 1821

The affairs of the Convention are to my apprehension in a condition little satisfactory.

unknown - 17 October 1821

The power of impeachment is vested in a majority of the members elect of the Assembly

unknown - 20 October 1821

The appointment of the Justices in the Counties has excited great uneasiness among the members of the Convention.

Albany, NY - 21 October 1821

I perhaps went too far in saying that nobody here talks of adjourning

Albany, NY - 9 November 1821

Our Convention have finished the amended Constitution, which is to be offered by a vote of tomorrow to the People for their acceptance or rejection.

unknown - 25 November 1821

I met in the Street the Otises, on their way to Congress ; and was rejoiced to learn from them that your health is better God grant that it may remain so.

Washington, VA - 16 December 1821

The Unitarian chaplain (Jared Sparks) excites even here some sensibility.