and river vessels may meet and exchange loads, and where those employed
about them may be safe and unmolested. The right to use a thing,
comprehends a right to the means necessary to its use, and without which
it would be useless. The fixing on a proper port, and the degree of
freedom it is to enjoy in its operations, will require negotiation, and
be governed by events. There is danger indeed, that even the unavoidable
delay of sending a negotiator here, may render the mission too late
for the preservation of peace. It is impossible to answer for the
forbearance of our western citizens. We endeavor to quiet them with the
expectation of an attainment of their rights by peaceable means. But
should they, in a moment of impatience, hazard others, there is no
saying how far we may be led: for neither themselves nor their rights
will ever be abandoned by us.

You will be pleased to observe, that we press these matters warmly and
firmly, under this idea, that the war between Spain and Great Britain
will be begun before you receive this; and such a moment must not be
lost. But should an accommodation take place, we retain, indeed, the
same object and the same resolutions unalterably; but your discretion
will suggest, that in that event, they must be pressed more softly, and
that patience and persuasion must temper your conferences, till either
these may prevail, or some other circumstance turn up, which may enable
us to use other means for the attainment of an object, which we are
determined, in the end, to obtain at every risk.

I have the honor to be, with great esteem, Dear Sir, your most obedient
and most humble servant,

Th: Jefferson.