University of Virginia Library

TO JAMES MONROE.[115]

Dear Sir

I have yours of the 12th intended for the 11th
inst: I have no map by which I can judge of
the comparative values of the 2 offers of Mr.
Bagot as to the fisheries.[116] There will be some
delicacy in referring the arrangement to Mr. A.
who prefers a decision here, and will say that we
having better means of procuring the necessary
information we ought not to put the task & responsibility
on him. If Mr. Bagot will not favor
an arrangement which we can acquiesce in I still
think it will be best to decide nothing but to instruct
Mr. A. to press the subject in such an extent as we
think admissible, and to engage as far as we can the
co-operation of Mr. B. As to armaments on the
Lakes, Mr. A. may be furnished with our propositions
and if they be concurred in the effect will be
accelerated, in case the B. Govt. be liberal eno' to
send over the necessary orders, without waiting
for the consummating forms. If it be understood
that Shaler intends or wishes to leave Algiers,[117] Poinsett

may take his place; and in the event of an
ulterior mission, he will be so far on his way. I
think, however, he ought not to be permitted to
form any ulterior expectations as well because the
ulterior mission in question is of too important &
too delicate a nature to be hastily contemplated, as
because unforeseen selections may become preferable.

As you will so soon be here I leave for consultation
the choice of an agent for the pacific. The gentleman
you name comes fairly into a comparative
view of characters.