TO MR. MADISON.
August 19, 1807.
I suppose Mr. Gamble should be told that his opinion in favor of the appointment of a Consul General for the Danish islands being founded on the supposition of a war with England, the executive cannot at present act on that ground. It would seem indeed, that in the event of war, our agent or agents in those islands would be very important persons, and should therefore be chosen with care. I presume it would become the best office in the gift of the United States.
It will be very difficult to answer Mr. Erskine's demand respecting the water casks in the tone proper for such a demand. I have heard of one who, having broke his cane over the head of another, demanded payment for his cane. This demand might well enough have made part of an offer to pay the damages done to the Chesapeake, and to deliver up the authors of the murders committed on board her. I return you the papers received yesterday. The Governor has enclosed me a letter from General Mathews of August 13th, mentioning the recent arrival of a ship in the Chesapeake, bearing the flag of a Vice-Admiral; from whence he concludes that Barclay is arrived. I salute you affectionately.