Collections : [University of Michigan William L. Clements Library]

Hardships caused by the embargo; he has heard that the embrago may not be taken off "in this city…less than one or two years." The American government will have it so that the "the people of this Country shall suffer all the disadvantages of War & not reap...the advantages of peace." Mentions the specifics of a duel, and feels that it is advantageous to settle in the Ohio country.

Regarding a violation of embargo in Vermont; "you will perceive that a violation of the Embargo laws, is contemplated on the borders of the lake, within the State of Vermont...I am directed by the President of the United States...to request that you will afford such further assistance by the Militia...for suppressing any unlawful combination with an intention, of violating the laws of the United States, by opposing those laying an Embargo, passed in the present of Congress."

Discusses Madison’s election and relations with Britain; "I preceive there will be no other Alternative but War, or a continuance of the Embargo, with such additional provisions for a strict & ridged execution of it…the honor and character of the Nation must forbid any relaxations in our measures until the European Nations shall be disposed to respect our sacred rights."

Regarding the benefits of employing seamen during embargo; "It is intimated to me that there is a probability of the Embargo's being continued. If that should be the case is it not desirable that the seamen...should be engaged in the Service." Speaks on the benefits of employing these men, including the fact that they will not be idle, which contributes to riots in seaport towns. The "Govr. continues & is able to do business.--it is said he will hold out & die with honor" [referring to James Sullivan, who would die on December 10, 1808].

Regarding the political situation and the lack of an American Navy; "I believe Mr. Madison is at present convinced that if he plunges America into a War with England, it will involve the Country in such a scene of espence and misery, or will injure eventually his popularity, and make his administration painful in the extreme." He states that a war with France might be preferable because New England is hostile to Madison "and who have no objection to a War with France."

Some are looking to war; he encloses a report from Mr. [Albert] Gallatin, "I think his views against to War…"

Regarding naval matters; appointment to second Lieutenant and reassignment to a new ship. Captain [Isaac] Hull has taken command of the Chesapeake. Bainbridge sends a message to Biddle's father.

Letter from son serving on a ship; "I have not heard a word from Elkton [Maryland] since my departure." Gives a description of the houses and buildings around New Orleans; "they remind me of old castles I have read of in novels." Mentions the commercial importance of the city.

Letter from son serving on a ship, mentions the embargo; "the news of the removal of the Embargo hindered it from being a proftable one…the situation of many Americans as well as Spaniards & French in the Floridas was truly wretched." Discusses matters relating to the United States' differences with Great Britain and issues regarding search and imprisonment.

Proceedings and condemnation of ship Aristides (in French).