My ardent desire is, and my aim has been (as far as depended upon the executive department) to comply strictly with all our foreign and domestic engagements; but to keep the United States free from political connexions with _every_ other country;--to see them independent of _all_, and under the influence of _none_.

In a word, I want an _American_ character; that the powers of Europe may be convinced we act for _ourselves_ and not for _others_.
This, in my judgment, is the only way to be respected abroad, and happy at home; and not by becoming the partisans of Great Britain or France, create dissensions, disturb the public tranquillity, and destroy, perhaps forever, the cement that binds the union.
"I am satisfied these sentiments can not be otherwise than congenial to your own.

Your aid, therefore, in carrying them into effect would be flattering and pleasing to me." This accurate chart of the road he was invited to travel, presented in itself no impediments which to Mr.Henry appeared insurmountable.

By private considerations alone was he restrained from proceeding in it.
* * * * * NOTE--No.

XIV.