Letterbook

Report from George Salmon to James McHenry on Maryland's Congressional Elections of 1798

Salmon discusses the Maryland Congressional elections of 1798 with James McHenry. Smith's interest among mechanics and militia will surmount all opposition. All merchants and people of fortune made every exertion much to their credit. Salmon notes that all that was required of him was his vote and private support. He notes astonishment at the numbers who would not interest themselves, even though they make their living from the government. Craik and Dent elected without opposition; Sprig has turned out; Christie has got his election; not certain whether Hindman will be continued, but generally imagined he will succeed. If so, State of Maryland won't appear worse than formerly. Elections in Virginia will show wonderful change for better. Enclosed was written by Bourne of Amsterdam; Salmon had extract inserted in papers. Smith's election must have cost $4000; a trifle for a man who is anxious to make money; he had a dreadful mob that made every thinking person apprehend mischief. Buchanan has given information; he means to apply to legislature for relief from creditors. He would have been helped here with health; but we are ready to tear one another's eyes out. This is a poor world and Salmon is tired of its follies;

1798

10

07

Baltimore

James McHenry

Secretary of War

George Salmon

Mr. Craik

Mr. Dent

Buchanan

Mr. Bourne

S. Smith

Baer

Christie

Sprigg

Winchester

mob

Federalist Party

Baltimore

Philadelphia

War Office

Amsterdam

Maryland

Virginia

Federalist Party

Congressional election 1798

Quasi War

1798100740001

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"as I before mentioned that Smith's interest among the mechanics and militia would surmount all opposition."