Pardon me for again writing to you in so short a time—I always do it with reluctance, because I know your time occupied constantly with momentous concerns.

But the present crisis seems pregnant with very eventful issues.

the public mind is on the [stretch].1 Love of order is the dominating principle, & hatred to draw blood from fellow citizens weighs—the opinions of the minority of Congress are resorted to.

M. Gallatin always voted with our senators, Mr Smylie with our delegates, & they are declared to be among the leaders of the insurgents.

this may be a fact or may be so, but being credited as a truth it is from thence agreed that the resistance to law is venial & the effect will I fear be unfortunate to order where the fact is beleived & the inference regarded—However I must yet adhere to my opinion given in my last letter2 viz., that the great body of the people will faithfully support their Cheif majistrate & their government.

Individuals once high among us in political influence will feel a decrease of weight.

Information transmitted weekly of the measures of the insurgents to be communicated here from authority I think would produ[c]e a continuance of the temper already shewn by my fellow citizens & I shall be very happy indeed to be instrumental in continuing & confirming their present general disposition. I have the honor to be dear sir with unalterable attachment your friend & sert