From Thomas Jefferson to Henry Dearborn, 1 August 1802
To Henry Dearborn
Monticello Aug. 1. 1802.
Dear Sir
Your favor of the 29th. came to hand yesterday, and I now return the papers it inclosed. I am in hopes the measures you have taken will enable Govr. Harrison to satisfy the Indians. I believe there is nothing new in the present circulation of lies among them. I have always understood that they are peculiarly inundated with lies at all times. that vice is practised pretty freely by themselves; but the traders and other whites among them use lies as the ordinary machinery for bending them to their purposes.
I inclose you another commission from Alexandria. whether these resignations (of which I have before sent you several) [are] from federalists chiefly or schismatic republicans I know not. they shew that there is more passion than patriotism on that side of the river. if you will be so good as to enquire for the best substitutes & send me commissions for them they shall be signed. Accept assurances of my sincere & respectful attachment
Th: Jefferson
P.S. [it would] be well to know beforehand whether the individuals will accept commissions. this I think a good rule in gen[eral cas]es.
PrC (DLC); faint; at foot of text: “The Secretary at War.” Enclosures not found, but see below.
Between 20 July and 5 Aug. 1802, TJ recorded in SJL the receipt of at least nine RESIGNATIONS from officers in the District of Columbia militia, none of which have been found. These include George Wise, Charles McKnight, Alexander Kerr, Josiah Faxon, John Johnston, John Stewart, Ferdinand Marsteller, Thomas Addison, and Robert Stewart (see Appendix iv). For a list of militia officers appointed by TJ, see the Alexandria Times; and District of Columbia Daily Advertiser, 20 July and the Georgetown Olio, 22 July.