Inclosed I transmit the Leyden Gazette up to yesterday in which will be seen a Short Accot. of a most affecting accident that has lately occurred in that City by the bursting of an immense quantity of Gun Powder1—fire being communicated thereto in a way unknown to any one. 100 houses are totally ruined & as many more heavily damaged & two to three hundred people have lost their lives & among the unfortunate victims is Proffessor Lusac & many others male & female of distinguished Character & worth. The public prints inform us that a large number of Privateers are fitting out in the Ports of France to Cruise upon neutral vessells trading with England Scotland & Ireland. I fear much that this procedure may operate to involve our Country in new difficulties with France especially as it is said that our disputes with GB are settled by treaty—our righ⟨t⟩ to do which is certainly not to be disputed—on any rational grounds—but the rancour which at prese⟨nt⟩ reign in the French Govt against the English may induce the first to regard those as enemies who negotiate with the latter. It is indeed a difficult task for the UStates to stear Safely between Scylla & Charybdis—but by the prudence of our Govt this valuable object has hitherto been effected & I cordially hope it may so continue. I have the honor to be With great respect Yr Ob Sevt.