I had always expected that when the republicans should have put down all things under their feet, they would schismatize among themselves. I always expected, too, that whatever names the parties might bear, the real division would be into moderate and ardent republicanism. In this division there is no great evil,--not even if the minority obtain the ascendency by the accession of federal votes to their candidate; because this gives us one shade only, instead of another, of republicanism. It is to be considered as apostasy only when they purchase the votes of federalists, with a participation in honor and power. The gross insult lately received from the English has forced the latter into a momentary coalition with the mass of republicans; but the moment we begin to act in the very line they have joined in approving, all will be wrong, and every act the reverse of what it should have been. Still, it is better to admit their coalescence, and leave to themselves their short-lived existence. Both reason and the usage of nations required we should give Great Britain an opportunity of disavowing and repairing the insult of their officers. It gives us at the same time an opportunity of getting home our vessels, our property, and our seamen,--the only means of carrying on the kind of war we should attempt. The only difference, I believe, between your opinion and mine, as to the protection of commerce, is the forcing the nation to take the best road, and the letting them take the worse, if such is their will. I salute you with great esteem and respect. TO THE SECRETARY AT WAR. WASHINGTON, July 9, 1807. DEAR SIR,--Considering that gun-boats will enter very materially into the system of defence for New York, I have thought that Commodore Rogers, (who is proceeding to that place on other business,) from his peculiar acquaintance with their operation and effect, might be useful as an associate in your examinations of the place, and the determinations to be formed. His opinions on that part of the subject will add weight to whatever shall be concluded. I have therefore desired him to take a part with yourself, the Vice-President, and Colonel Williams, in the examinations and consultations.