University of Virginia Library

TO W. H. CRAWFORD.

Dear Sir I have just recd. from Mr. Monroe a
very extraordinary communication, confidentially
made to him by Col. Jessup. A copy of it is inclosed.
An invasion by a Spanish force at the present period
might be pronounced a mere chimoera, if a less degree
of folly reigned at Madrid; unless, indeed the Councils
of Spain shd. be supported by a power, whose councils
may reasonably be more confided in. It is
probable however that Onis is intriguing at N.
Orleans, and the extent to which he may mislead, an
ignorant proud & vindictive Govt. cannot be calculated.
It is incumbent on us therefore to have
an eye to our S. W. Frontier, proportioning our
precautions to our means, and to a fair estimate of
the danger. As Gen: Jackson is apprized of the

apprehensions of Col. Jessup, tho' without some of
the grounds of them mentioned to Mr. Monroe, we
may expect soon to hear from him on the subject.
Are there any reinforcements or defences, which
can be added to those now within his employment?
Should Jessup execute his purpose, it will be the
boldest project, ever assumed by no higher authority.
I communicate the intelligence he gives, to the
Secy. of the Navy. Be so good as to do the same
to your Colleagues at Washington.[124]