TO MR. GALLATIN.
Washington, October 14, 1807
I think the proper instructions for Mr. Christie's revenue cutter may be drawn from those given to Captain Decatur. The authority of the proclamation is to be maintained, no supplies to be permitted to be carried to the British vessels, nor their vessels permitted to land. For these purposes force, and to any extent, is to be applied, if necessary, but not unless necessary, nor, considering how short a time the present state of things has to continue, would I recommend any extraordinary vigilance or great industry in seeking even just occasions for collision. It will suffice to do what is right when the occasion comes into their way. I cannot doubt the expediency of getting the instruments recommended by Mr. Patterson, and of the best kind, if they can be got in England, because I almost know they cannot be made in any other country equally good, and I should be quite averse to getting those which should not be perfect.
May we not at once appoint the republican candidate for the collectorship of Snow-hill? Affectionate salutations.