At this momentous Crisis [. . . .] it is much feared that our Country is on the Eve of a rupture with a powerful nation of Europe—Every thing Calculated to diffuse the [. . . .] knowledge which may Shew what are our natural & adventitious rights Cannot but be acceptable for which purpose I send thee the inclosed hoping that in the pending negociation with Brittain all will be done to avoid involving our Country in hostilities which is Consistant with our national honor & independence

The nations of Europe seem disposed to Contend the point for us & as long as we Can Escape the Calamities inseperable to War I Concieve we ought—& I hope thee will be enabled to retire from the honorable Seat in which thy Country has placed thee (& which has been filled to the Satisfaction of So large a majority of thy fellow Citizens) with the pleasing reflection that thr’o the dreadful agitations of the Nations of Europe thy Country has been favord with the inestimable Blessing of Peace—I remain thy Friend