TO THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY.
Monticello, August 9, 1807.
Dear Sir,—Soon after my arrival here I received a letter from Governor Cabell, requesting me to give such instructions for regulating the intercourse with the British squadron as might enable the officers to act correctly. I accordingly undertook to digest the rules of practice, as to flags, as well as I could, and so as to meet all cases, in a letter to the Governor, a copy of which I now enclose you. Soon after sending it, I learnt from Mr. Madison that the arrangement at Washington had not been known or understood to exclude the officer commanding on shore from the right of communicating by flag, and that some particular orders from the War office, respecting Mr. Erskine's letter, might produce a collision. I have therefore written to Governor Cabell, making the correction stated at the foot of the enclosed letter, which is the safer. As Mr. Newton (of Congress) is the Major Commandant ashore, you will see by the letter that I meant to send a copy of it to Captain Decatur, but have thought it more proper to send it you, with a request to forward it, or a copy, to him. Mr. Newton receiving also a copy, they will be enabled to act by one uniform rule. I salute you with affection and respect.