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" By reports of the debates, or rather the rapid passage of every favorite measure
of the Virginia Interest, it appears there is no use in our northern federal members
remaining there—would it not be as well for you all to return home, and leave them
to themselves? I think it probable some might feel the force of Mr. Morris'" obser-
vation, and want the protecting force of the Judiciary to save them ;
it is said here
that your business in the House of Representatives is finished to your hands before
it comes into the house, and without the knowledge of about -J- of its members— if
so, that one third can only experience a mortification by being present at the passage
of the business ; if they have fortitude enough to bear it, and to stand ready to
defend their own principles, much is due to them. . . .
" I believe it is well known to you that the French spoliations were more severely
felt by the commercial interest of this town and vicinity, in proportion to our mem-
bers and capital, than almost any town or place that is within my knowledge, except
Alexandria ; a great proportion of our traders have been totally ruined, and others
are great sufferers. We are now preparing a memorial to Congress, praying com-
pensation for the claims we had against the French Government, which for some
purpose have been bartered by our Government, and left us no other hope but in the
justice of the Government. .
. . Should
justice be refused, I fear ruin will be
attached to many, and bye and bye the commercial interest will be less tenacious of
their sacred regard to the revenue. . . . We
hope for the best, but, if driven to a
pointed enmity to the revenue-system, it appears to me they could as effectually ruin
it as the Virginia interest have ruined the Judiciary, not by a majority of only one,
but by a unanimous vote. I feel a pride in the belief that our Connecticut Members
of both Houses know the true interest of their country, and that it has a warm place
in their hearts, which principle, united with their desire of justice, will secure them
to us as advocates in this cause. .
"Hon"'' Roger Griswold Esq."
" Sir,
. .
" ¥" friend and serv'
J. Howland."
"Knoxville, Dec. 26"", 1803."
" The Exertions you have made to stem the torrent of Democratic Delusion,
and to support the constitution of our country against the insidious attacks of the
Demagogues who now rule, have induced me to address you on a subject which, if
my opinions are correct, every Friend to the Constitution is interested in. I allude
to the late requisition of the militia of this State by the General Government.
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