Your letter mentioning the calling into service near the Capes, a company of Infantry, I enclosed to the Secretary at War for his information and opinion, and received his answer yesterday. Your observations satisfy him that Infantry alone can be effectual in that station, and induce him to think that the company of Infantry should be a substitute for that of Cavalry, and that the latter should be discharged. To the weight of his opinion and advice, as the head of the department, is added the apparent fact that the British squadron means to be quiet till orders from England, an intention much strengthened by the complexion of Captain Hardy's letter now returned. The duty therefore of husbanding our resources for the moment of real want, requires that I should approve his opinion, and recommend the discharge of the troop of Cavalry. The company of Infantry will be as vigilant as they can to cut off supplies from the squadron, according to the proclamation; and it is proper that a daily express from the station of the company to the Norfolk Post Office should be established under your Excellency's direction. I salute you with great esteem and respect. TO THE SECRETARY AT WAR. MONTICELLO, August 18, 1807. DEAR SIR,--Yours of the 14th and 15th were received yesterday. The former is now returned. I shall, in answer to Mr. Nicholas, say that we cannot lend arms but to volunteers training for immediate service, and that as to a deposit in his neighborhood, we shall in due time take up that subject generally, when just attention will be paid to that section of our country. Our separation at this time having been agreed on, I supposed it equally settled as to yourself that you also would take a recess as soon as the affairs of your office would permit; and that no further approbation on my part could be wanting. However, if it were, I hope you considered my letter of the 12th as expressing it fully, so as not to permit yourself to be detained for anything further. Wishing you a pleasant journey and happy meeting with your family, I salute you with affection. TO THE SECRETARY OF STATE. MONTICELLO, August 18, 1807.