Thomas Jefferson Papers
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To Thomas Jefferson from William C. C. Claiborne, 17 June 1807

New Orleans June 17. 1807.

My dear Sir

I continue confined to my room, and experience considerable pain—but the wound now suppurates profusely and my Surgeon gives me reason to believe that in 3 weeks I shall be enabled to walk—I fear however that the warmth of the weather will considerably retard my recovery.

The business of my office will meet with no derangement by my present confinement—My private Secretary makes out under my immediate directions the necessary dispatches and the Executive department will go on as usual

Genl. Adair is still here– but with what views I know not,—it is by some said that an attempt will be made by a certain party to introduce him into our assembly at the fall election and that in the mean time he will employ himself in obtaining and securing his Titles to a portion of the Ouachitta lands,—I understand however that Adair has himself said that his business here was to pay his respects to Genl. Wilkinson and with the same view he should very soon proceed to Virginia.

The long and inveterate dispute between the Catholic Priests of this City has not yet subsided,—the Vicar General lately named by Bishop Carrol repaired on yesterday to the Cathedral Church and was denied admittance.—A mob which had collected on the occasion composed of low Spaniards, free Mulattos and negroes discovered a very riotous disposition—but by the timely interference of the Parish Judge and the Mayor of the City the croud was dispersed & no mischief ensued,—I fear however that these refractory priests will so agitate and divide their congregation that the Civil authority will be obliged to take the necessary measures to ensure the public peace.

The City of new Orleans continues to improve with rapidity, and even at this warm season of the year Commerce seems to be as flourishing as during the winter. The revenue from the Custom House here must greatly augment; in eight years it cannot be less than a million of dollars per annum.—In speaking of the revenue it reminds me of a letter in which I expressed my fears that Mr. Brown the Collector was under the influence of some men who were not friendly disposed to the administration. I have since had reason to change my opinion—he meddles not at all with the politics of the day—is a faithful and I believe a capable Officer—and altho’ he did not approve of the measures lately pursued here yet I do not find that he either said or did any thing which was calculated to injure the government or its officers.

I have the honor to be, your faithful friend

William C. C. Claiborne

DLC: Papers of Thomas Jefferson.

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