University of Virginia Library

306. ALLIANCES, Entangling.—[continued].

I am for free commerce
with all nations; political connection with
none; and little or no diplomatic establishment.
And I am not for linking ourselves by
new treaties with the quarrels of Europe; entering
that field of slaughter to preserve their
balance, or joining in the confederacy of
Kings to war against the principles of liberty.—
To Elbridge Gerry. Washington ed. iv, 268. Ford ed., vii, 328.
(Pa., 1799)