On the 27th. of April I wrote to Govr. Claiborne in these words. ‘Congress has permitted lots to be taken for M. de la Fayette as low as 500. as. this secures to us the parcel on the canal of Carondelet: but at the same time cuts off those smaller locations proposed by mr Duplantier. indeed it would not be for the interest of the General to let his claim get into collision with any public interest. were it to lose it’s popularity it might excite an opposition neither agreeable to his feelings or interests.’ this may already have produced some effect towards abating the expectations of M. Duplantier, & the fears of the city. still I think it better that mr Madison should write explicitly to him. indeed I think we had better have a consultation, and determine on the proper limits of the public reservation. for however justifiably desirous we may be to relieve a man who stands so high in the public affection as La Fayette, still it should be only by granting to him such lands as would be granted to others if not located by him. the idea of consolidating by getting Suarez’s land was to satisfy the limit of 1000. as. then imposed on him, while others would have been free to have taken these smaller parcels. that idea may now be waived.

With respect to Colo. Newton’s enquiries what measures are to be taken with armed vessels coming into that harbour, I think he may be told to go on as we have done until further orders. these ought not to be given till we have gun boats there to enforce them. then I shall be for an exact police over these vessels. should we not by special letters keep the Collectors on the alert as to the three proscribed vessels and commanders? it is very desirable to get hold of Whitby. affectionate salutations.