We have heard here that a circular ltr. from you to the several collectors relative to French prizes1 has given great offence to the British minister2 & that this conduct on the part of the U.S. will contribute to produce a rupture with G.B. I should be very much obliged to you for the truth on this point & its expected consequences.

Peace to America is in one word, our all. A set of clamorous desperadoes in their fortunes or political hopes cry aloud for war & I fear G.B is not indisposed to take advantage of every event to injure us. What the intemperance of some among us & her solicitude to avenge past disgrace may produce time alone can unfold, but I hope that the true friends to their country will every where & on every occasion unite to prevent the calamitys of war.

What is the real state of things in france, & will not her enemys after victory there, feel the exploit but half accomplished, unless we also be politically changed. On this ground I sometimes apprehend danger, but am revived again when I look at the sea which divides us & reckon on the exhausted state of their finances. Farewel3