[Free T. Pickering] James M^c Henry Esq^r Downing's Town Pennsylvania [L...nng Pickering L...ry [undecipherable: 25 Aug?] 1797] --- Trenton Oct. 25. 1797 D^r Sir. 14 Last evening I received your letter of the 22d, with an open packet for the President, which I have read, feled, and shall this day forward. Can the cautious restriction of Powers — the preposterous idea of taking the posts of S^t Louis, Genevieve & New-Madrid — be accounted for, except on the principle that they may cover sinister views, the conspiracy of which prompts × × × × to over-act his part? But if hostilities were to commence on the Mis-sissipi, why not collect the utmost force to that quarter? Why the zeal to attack — & the contradictory measure of lessening the force he could command, by remanding a company where it was not needed? His construction of Rivets letter is probably just. But if the poor missionary has two years salary in arrear, it would seem advisable to pay him at least one, immediately. What is [undecipherable] of the other priest? Janin? I thought both had gone to the Spaniard. Will not the retaining of his pay, furnish an excuse for unfaithfulness & desertion? And with the influence he has acquired over the Indians, may not his desertion hazard mischief? — Doubtless it had been better than we had never given either. By the overtures of Q. it is clear that he belongs to the nation of fries & intrigues. I return M^r Hindman's letter, & thank you for the perusal. But how astonishing that at this time Youngsburg should increase! Surely the people want information. Adieu! T. Pickering James M^cHenry Esq^re