I am much pleased with the ardor displayed by our countrymen on the late British outrage. It gives us the more confidence of support in the demand of _reparation_ for the past, and _security_ for the future, that is to say, an end of impressments. If motives of either justice or interest should produce this from Great Britain, it will save a war; but if they are refused, we shall have gained time for getting in our ships and property, and at least twenty thousand seamen now afloat on the ocean, and who may man two hundred and fifty privateers. The loss of these to us would be worth to Great Britain many victories of the Nile and Trafalgar. The meantime may also be importantly employed in preparations to enable us to give quick and deep blows. Present to Mrs. Page, and receive yourself my affectionate and respectful salutations. TO BENJAMIN MORGAN, ESQ. WASHINGTON, July 18, 1807. SIR,--We learn through the channel of the newspapers that Governor Claiborne having engaged in a duel, has been dangerously wounded, and the Secretary having resigned his office, the territory will in that event be left without any executive head. It is not in my power immediately to make provision for this unfortunate and extraordinary state to which the territory may thus have been reduced, otherwise than by beseeching you to undertake the office of Secretary for a short time, until I can fill up the appointment. I well know that immersed in other business, as you are, this will greatly embarrass you; but I will not desire you to do anything more than absolute necessity shall require, and even from that you shall be shortly relieved by the appointment of a successor. This request is made in the event of Governor Claiborne's wound having proved mortal. If he is alive, the commission need not be used. I shall be anxious to hear from you. In the meantime accept my friendly and respectful salutations. TO GOVERNOR CABELL. WASHINGTON, July 19, 1807. SIR,--Your letter of the 15th was received yesterday, and the opinion you have given to General Matthews against allowing any intercourse between the British Consul and the ships of his nation remaining in our waters, in defiance of our authority, is entirely approved. Certainly while they are conducting themselves as enemies _de facto_, intercourse should be permitted only as between enemies, by flags under the permission of the commanding officers, and with their passports. My letter of the 16th mentioned a case in which a communication from the British officers should be received if offered. A day or two ago, we permitted a parent to go on board the Bellone with letters from the British minister, to demand a son impressed; and others equally necessary will occur, but they should be under the permission of some officer having command in the vicinity.