If
armies are combined with their fleets, then no resource can be provided,
but to meet them in the field. We propose to raise seven regiments only
for the present year, depending always on our militia for the operations
of the first year of war. On any other plan, we should be obliged always
to keep a large standing army. Congress will adjourn in about three
weeks. I hope Captain McComb is going on well with your defensive works.
We shall be able by mid-summer, to give you a sufficient number of
gun-boats to protect Charleston from any vessels which can cross the
bar; but the militia of the place must be depended on to fill up the
complement of men necessary for action in the moment of an attack, as we
shall man them, in ordinary, but with their navigating crew of eight or
ten good seamen. I salute you with great esteem and respect.
Th: Jefferson.
LETTER LXIX.--TO DOCTOR LEIB, June 23, 1808
TO DOCTOR LEIB.
Washington, June 23, 1808.
Sir,
I have duly received your favor covering a copy of the talk to the
Tammany society, for which I thank you, and particularly for the
favorable sentiments expressed towards myself. Certainly, nothing will
so much sweeten the tranquillity and comfort of retirement, as the
knowledge that I carry with me the good will and approbation of my
republican fellow-citizens, and especially of the individuals in unison
with whom I have so long acted.
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