On March 19, in a further special message, he communicated dispatches from the American envoys in France, and also informed Congress that he should withdraw his order forbidding merchant vessels to sail in an armed condition.

A collision might, therefore, occur at any moment.
On March 27, 1798, a resolution was introduced that it is not now expedient for the United States to resort to war against the French Republic; a second, to restrict the arming of merchant vessels; and a third, to provide for the protection of the seacoast and the internal defense of the country.

Speaking to the first resolution, Mr.Gallatin said that the United States had arrived at a crisis at which a stand must be made, when the House must say whether it will resort to war or preserve peace.

If to war, the expense and its evils must be met; if peace continue, then the country must submit: in either case American vessels would be taken.

It was a mere matter of calculation which course would best serve the interest and happiness of the country.