Mr.Gallatin accordingly called upon Congress for the necessary powers.

They at once responded with the Enforcement Act, which Mr.Gallatin proceeded to apply with characteristic administrative vigor, and summoned Jefferson to authorize the collectors of revenue to call the military force of the United States to support them in the exercise of their restrictive authority.
There was to be no evasion under the systems which Hamilton devised and Gallatin knew so well how to administer.
His annual report made to Congress on December 10 had clearly set forth the situation, and, without recommending war, had pointed out how it might be carried on.

Macon wrote of him on December 4 to their mutual friend, Joseph H.Nicholson, "Gallatin is decidedly for war." After his report was sent in the situation became still more perplexing.

Rumors came of an intention to call a convention of the five New England States, with New York, if possible, to take ground against the embargo.
As these indications of dissatisfaction became manifest, and the contingency of the employment of force at home presented itself, Gallatin made a careful balance of the advantages and inconveniences of embargo, non-intercourse, and letters of marque.

This paper, dated February, 1809, and entitled, "Notes on the Political Situation," no doubt served as a brief for consultation with Madison upon his inaugural message, it being then understood that Gallatin was to be secretary of state.