The
embargo appears to be approved, even by the federalists of every quarter
except yours. The alternative was between that and war, and, in fact,
it is the last card we have to play, short of war. But if peace does
not take place in Europe, and if France and England will not consent
to withdraw the operation of their decrees and orders from us, when
Congress shall meet in December, they will have to consider at what
point of time the embargo, continued, becomes a greater evil than war. I
am inclined to believe, we shall have this summer and autumn to prepare
for the defence of our sea-port towns, and hope that in that time the
works of defence will be completed, which have been provided for by the
legislature. I think Congress will rise within three weeks. I salute you
with great affection and respect.
Th: Jefferson.
LETTER LXVIII.--TO CHARLES PINCKNEY, March 30, 1808
TO CHARLES PINCKNEY.
Washington, March 30, 1808.
Dear Sir,
Your letter of the 8th was received on the 25th, and I proceed to state
to you my views of the present state and prospect of foreign affairs,
under the confidence that you will use them for your own government and
opinions only, and by no means let them get out as from me. With France
we are in no immediate danger of war. Her future views it is impossible
to estimate. The immediate danger we are in of a rupture with England,
is postponed for this year.
Pages:
167
168
169
170
171
172
173
174
175
176
177
178
179
180
181
182
183
184
185
186
187
188
189
190
191