I am, sir, your obedient servant,
STEPHEN DECATUR.
To Commodore James Barron,
Hampton, Virginia.
[EXTRACT.]
NORFOLK, AUGUST 24, 1819.
My Dear Commodore: Nothing had transpired here previous to my arrival, on the subject of the correspondence; but a Lady, a Miss ——, I think her name is, from Hampton, has stated, that a correspondence had taken place between you and B. which she feared would end in a meeting. The fears of this lady are at direct variance with the opinion of your friends here, who think that he does not purpose saying more on the subject.
As it seems that it was known at Hampton, and even here, that letters had passed between you and B. may I venture to ask you to send a copy of them to Mr. Tazewell, who I have just left. He will, with great pleasure, he says, attend to your wishes.
Receive the best wishes of your friend,
W. CARTER.