Now I have all the images. Let me compose the transcription from the primary copy (pages 1–4) and the endorsement (page 10), using the "Other Copies" only to resolve unclear passages. Trenton 22 Oct^r 1799 Dear Sir. It is a long time since I received 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 imports favourable, and susceptible of being augmented, with a certainty of obtaining further loans if wanted. as to parties. There will be a greater number 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, than 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 echoes 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 [undecipherable], 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 Mr. Ross, the other for Judge M^cKean. The latter is carried by a large majority. This event, will increase the antifederalism of Pennsylvania, while it does not appear to me, that Jacobinism has at all decreased in Virginia. Another subject. Opinions among federalists differ relative to a just solution of the following questions. 1st. Whether the original appointment of ministers to treat with France was compatible with the dignity and interests of the U.S. 2°. Whether the recent changes which have taken place in France combined with those which are [undecipherable] did not require a suspension of the mission. The fact is, the mission has become an apple of discord [strikethrough: the effects] of which it is impossible to foresee or calculate. I trust however now as I have always done to a superintending Providence. With great regard and esteem I am Dear Sir yours, Truly & affectionately James McHenry [Ans^r W^m Smith.] [Endorsement on verso: 22 Oct^r 1799 / J. from [undecipherable] / [undecipherable] [undecipherable]]