Thomas Jefferson Papers
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From Thomas Jefferson to Christopher Greenup, 21 March 1807

Washington March. 21. 1807.

Sir

Altho’ the present state of things on the Western side of the Missisipi does not threaten any immediate collision with our neighbors in that quarter, and it is our wish they should remain undisturbed until an amicable adjustment may take place; yet as this does not depend on ourselves alone, it has been thought prudent to be prepared to meet any movements which may occur. the law of a former session of Congress for keeping a body of 100,000. militia in readiness for service at a moment’s warning is still in force. but by an act of the last session, a copy of which I now inclose, the Executive is authorised to accept the services of such volunteers as shall offer themselves on the conditions of the act, which may render a resort to the former act unnecessary. it is for the execution of this act that I am now to sollicit your zealous endeavors. the persons who shall engage, will not be called from their homes until some aggression, committed or intended, shall render it necessary. when called into action, it will not be for a lounging, but for an active, & perhaps distant service. I know the effect of this consideration in kindling that ardour which prevails for this service, & I count on it for filling up the numbers requisite, without delay. to yourself, I am sure, it must be as desirable as it is to me, to transfer this service from the great mass of our militia to that portion of them to whose habits and enterprize active & distant service is most congenial. in using therefore your best exertions towards accomplishing the object of this act, you will render to your constituents, as well as to the nation, a most acceptable service.

With respect to the organising and officering those who shall be engaged within your state, the act itself will be your guide: and as it is desirable that we should be kept informed of the progress in this business, I must pray you to report the same from time to time to the Secretary at war, who will correspond with you on all the details arising out of it.

I salute you with great consideration & respect.

DLC: Papers of Thomas Jefferson.

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