How long we are to remain in this savage country God only knows. No doubt it must depend in a great measure upon the exertions that are made in our favour. We rely with implicit confidence that the government of our country will make the most speedy, as well as effectual measures for our release. While we are here, our lives must be in constant jeopardy and uncertainty. Adieu. Remember me affectionately to Mrs. Alston; and believe me,
With much esteem and respect,
Your most obedient servant,
JAMES BIDDLE.[3]
Footnotes:
1. Subsequently Mrs. Commodore Decatur.
2. The Philadelphia.
3. Now Commodore Biddle, and son of the late Charles Biddle.
CHAPTER XV.
An amendment to the Constitution of the United States having been proposed by Congress, and doubts existing as to the manner in which it should be authenticated and transmitted to the several states, Mr. Burr, as president of the Senate, addressed a note on the subject to the secretary of state, Mr. Madison, and to the secretary of the Senate, Mr. Otis, to which the following replies were made.