On a view of our affairs with Spain, presented me in a letter from C. Pinckney, I wrote you on the 23d. of July1 that I thought we should offer them the status quo, but immediately propose a provisional alliance with England. I have not yet recieved the whole correspondence, but the portion of the papers now inclosed to you,2 confirm me in the opinion of the expediency of a treaty with England, but make the offer of the status quo more doubtful. The correspondence will probably throw light on that question. From the papers already recieved I infer a confident reliance on the part of Spain on the ominipotence of Bonaparte, but a desire of procrastination till peace in Europe shall leave us without an ally. General Dearborne has seen all the papers. I will ask the favor of you to communicate them to Mr. Gallatin & Mr. Smith. From Mr. Gallatin I shall ask his first opinions, preparatory to the stating formal questions for our ultimate decision. I am in hopes you can make it convenient on your return to see & consult with Mr. Smith & Genl. Dearborne, unless the latter should be come on here, where I can do it myself. On the reciept of your own ideas Mr. Smith’s and the other gentlemen I shall be able to form points for our final consideration & determination.

I inclose you some communications from the Mediterranean.3 They shew Barron’s understanding in a very favorable view. When you shall have perused them, be so good as to inclose them to the Secretary of the Navy. Accept my fervent wishes for the speedy recovery of Mrs. Madison, and your speedy visit to this quarter.