I received a few days ago your Excellency’s favor of the 9th. inst: covering the patriotic Resolutions of the Legislature of New York of the 3d. the times do certainly render it incumbent on all good citizens, attached to the rights & honor of their country to bury in oblivion all internal differences, and rally round the standard of their country in opposition to the outrages of foreign nations. All attempts to enfeeble & destroy the exertions of the General Government in vindication of our national rights, or to loosen the bands of union by alienating the affections of the people, or opposing the authority of the laws, at so eventful a period, merit the discountenance of all.

The confidence which the Legislature expresses in the national administration is highly consolatory, and their determination to support the just rights of their country with their lives and fortunes is worthy of the high character of the State of New York.

By all, I trust, the Union of the States will ever be considered as the Palladium of their Safety their prosperity & glory, and all attempts to sever it will be frowned on with reprobation & abhorrence. & I have equal confidence that all moved by the sacred principles of liberty & patriotism will prepare themselves for any crisis we may be destined to meet, & will be ready to cooperate with each other and with the constituted authorities in resisting and repelling the aggressions of foreign nations.

The Legislature may be assured that every exertion will be used to put the United States in the best condition of defence that we may be fully prepared to meet the dangers which menace the peace of our country. I avail myself with pleasure of every occasion to tender to your Excellency the assures of my high respect & consideration.