(Private)

    Mount Vernon, June 24, 1796.

    Dear Sir: If in the opinion of Judges, it is thought best for my India wine to remain undisturbed where it now is, I am content it should remain there. I had, however, directed Mr. Kitt⁵ (my household Steward) to learn when it would be ready for landing; and to have it brought up, and stored in my own Cellar; where, it would not only have been safe, but would also have remained undisturbed; which may not be the case in a Merchants Cellar which is continually receiving, and disgorging its liquors; and frequently removing one Cask to get at another.

[Note:Frederick Kitt. ]

    You will perceive by the copy of a letter which goes from me to Colo. Pickering by the Post of tomorrow from Alexa. that, be the circumstances of the Mount Vernon ⁶ as they may there is strong ground to believe the French mean to continue the practice of siezing our Vessels in their Commerce with Great Britain. It is the Buzz of the Democrats; And the Aurora is, evidently, preparing the Public mind for the event as the natural consequence of the ratification of the British Treaty.

[Note:Owned by Willing & Francis, of Philadelphia, had been captured by a French privateer called the Flying Fish . ]

    This measure will merit serious consideration, and close investigation; and I hope it will meet with them accordingly, that the decisions of the Government may be wise, temperate and consistent.

    With very great esteem etc. ⁷

[Note:From a photostat of the original in the Connecticut Historical Society. ]