Trenton, 22 Oct^r 1798 Dear Sir, It is a long time since I received one from you a letter, and perhaps a little longer since my writing one to you. I have little indeed to communicate, but as the opportunity by our commissioners is direct and safe, I could not omit availing myself of it. The Country in general is tranquil. The Indians, at peace with each other and the U.S. The recruiting service for the new regiments successful. The navy progressing. The general commerce of the country prosperous. The results, from our taxes and imposts favourable, and susceptible of being augmented, with an certainty of obtaining further loans if wanted. As to parties. There will be a greater [strikethrough: number] [strikethrough: of] nominal, if not of real federalists in the ensuing Congress than we had in the last, owing perhaps more to the operations of personal influence in the persons elected, th[strikethrough: an] any change in principles among the people who elected them. you know it would not in all cases, be a just conclusion, to consider representatives in Congress, the echo of their constituents upon political questions. I am much afraid, and not without ground, that the mass of the people are still in a situation which subjects them to be governed in their political [strikethrough: p] opinions, by lies and desperate leaders. The election in Pennsylvania for Governor has closed. The powers of both parties were excited and exerted to the utmost, the one for M^r Ross; the other for M^r M^cKean. The latter is carried by large majorities. I need scarcely [undecipherable: remark] because the antifederalism of Pennsylvania, while it does not appear to [undecipherable: me], that Jacobinism has at all decreased in Virginia. Another subject. Opinions among federalists differ relative to a just solution of the following question. 1^st. Whether the original appointment of ministers to treat with France was compatible with the dignity and interests of the U.S. 2^o Whether the recent changes which have taken place in France unhinged with those which are [undecipherable: advisable] did not require a suspension of the mission. The fact is, the mission has become an apple of discord the effects of which it is impossible to foresee or calculate. I trust however now that it is [undecipherable: actually] done to a superintending Providence. with great regard and esteem I am Dear Sir yours truly & affectionately James McHenry [Prince W^m Smith.] [M^cHenry to Dallas]