Thomas Jefferson Papers

To Thomas Jefferson from William C. C. Claiborne, 18 March 1806

New Orleans March 18. 1806.

Dear Sir

In a letter to the Secretary of State, I have given the particulars of the stoppage at Mobile of the American Schooner Ann, bound to Fort St. Stephens with provisions for our Troops.—I am firmly impressed with an opinion, that the Spanish Government is not disposed to extend towards the United States either a just or respectful conduct.—I further believe, that, to obtain for our fellow Citizens a free and uninterrupted use of the waters of the Mobile, we must have recourse to Force—and perhaps the sooner this expedient is resorted to, the better.—In an official letter to the Secretary of State, I acquainted him of the opposition made by the Spanish Agents to the passage of the Mail of the United States, by the way of Mobile.

With sentiments of great respect, I am, Dear Sir, Your faithful friend

William C. C. Claiborne

DLC: Papers of Thomas Jefferson.

Index Entries