(In cipher.) No. 7.
BOSTON, _March 7, 1809_.
SIR: I have now ascertained, with as much accuracy as
possible, the course intended to be pursued by the party in
Massachusetts that is opposed to the measures and politics of
the Administration of the General Government.
I have already given a decided opinion that a declaration of
war is not to be expected; but, contrary to all reasonable
calculation, should the Congress possess spirit and
independence enough to place their popularity in jeopardy by
so strong a measure, the Legislature of Massachusetts will
give the tone to the neighboring States, will declare itself
permanent until a new election of members, invite a Congress,
to be composed of delegates from the Federal States, and erect
a separate government for their common defence and common
interest. This Congress would probably begin by abrogating
the offensive laws, and adopting a plan for the maintenance
of the power and authority thus assumed. They would, by such
an act, be in a condition to make or receive proposals from
Great Britain; and I should seize the first moment to open
a correspondence with your Excellency. Scarcely any other
aid would be necessary, and perhaps none required, than a
few vessels of war from the Halifax station, to protect the
maritime towns from the little navy which is at the disposal
of the National Government. What permanent connection between
Great Britain and this section of the Republic would grow out
of a civil commotion, such as might be expected, no person is
prepared to describe; but it seems that a strict alliance must
result of necessity. At present the opposition party confine
their calculations merely to resistance; and I can assure you
that, at this moment, they do not freely entertain the project
of withdrawing the Eastern States from the Union, finding it a
very unpopular topic; although a course of events, such as I
have already mentioned, would inevitably produce an incurable
alienation of the New England from the Southern States.
The truth is, the common people have so long regarded the
Constitution of the United States with complacency, that they
are now only disposed in this quarter to treat it like a truant
mistress, whom they would, for a time, put away on a separate
maintenance, but, without further and greater provocation,
would not absolutely repudiate.
It will soon be known in what situation public affairs are to
remain until the meeting of the New Congress in May, at which
time, also, this Legislature will again assemble. The two
months that intervene will be a period of much anxiety.
In all I have written I have been careful not to make any
impression analogous to the enthusiastic confidence entertained
by the opposition, nor to the hopes and expectations that
animate the friends of an alliance between the Northern States
and Great Britain.
I have abstracted myself from all the sympathies these are
calculated to inspire; because, notwithstanding that I feel the
utmost confidence in the integrity of intention of the leading
characters in this political drama, I cannot forget that
they derive their power from a giddy, inconstant multitude;
who, unless in the instance under consideration they form
an exception to all general rules and experience, will act
inconsistently and absurdly. I am yours, &c.