7148. RANDOLPH (John), Attacks on Jefferson.—
That Mr. Randolph has openly
attacked the Administration is sufficiently
known. We were not disposed to join in league
with Britain, under any belief that she is fighting
for the liberties of mankind, and to enter
into war with Spain, and consequently France.
The House of Representatives were in the same
sentiment when they rejected Mr. Randolph's
resolutions for raising a body of regular troops
for the western service. We are for a peaceable
accommodation with all those nations, if it can
be effected honorably. This, perhaps, is not
the only ground of his alienation; but which
side retains its orthodoxy, the vote of eightyseven
to eleven republicans may satisfy you.—
To William Duane. Washington ed. iv, 591.
Ford ed., viii, 432.
(W.
March. 1806)