Gazette Of The United States

For the GAZETTE of the UNITED STATES.

MR. FENNO,

I most cordially join in the general joy of every good citizen, on the patriotic firmness exhibited by our worthy President in supporting the constitution of the country: for though he discreetly waves hazarding a sentiment on the right of exercising an absolute negative on the determination of the Senate, yet he is under no hesitation in giving their constitutional decision, a formal effect.

That the tenor of the treaty is not coextensive with the wishes of the citizens of the United States, is admitted by all, but as our constitutional Representatives have till thought it politic to give it a partial confirmation, I ought not to suppose that, any real well wisher to his country would dare to substitute the hasty ill digested resolutions of uninformed individuals. Would not such measures tend to the destruction of all government?

Have we not a constitution founded on rational and liberal principles, which though opposed by some in its formation, yet has been wisely and universally permitted to enter into full operation.

Upon what principles then is it attempted to usurp the power of government and place it in a multitude of detached bodies. If one set of men meet and attempt to direct public councils, another may with equal propriety meet in opposition. Where will this terminate? will it not dissolve the bands of Society and cast us back into a state of nature?

Surely no considerate man will lend his aid to the workers of confusion; for whatever pretences may be made, of a mere opposition to the treaty, there is too much reason to fear that it arises from a deep rooted hatred to the Constitution; a Constitution under which there is more true liberty and happiness enjoyed, than under any form of government in the world. Let us but support our present system of mild government and good laws flowing from constitutional sources and we must be a great and envied people. That there will be turbulent men in all countries must ever be expected, and that there will be weak men who will follow them blindfold into the absurdest measures; but the great bulk of the people whilst they are enlightened will pursue their own happiness, and support good government.

It is not to be understood that by supporting good government we are tamely to submit to Insolence and injustice; the late conduct of the British cruisers, even in our ports should claim our most pointed resentment, not stopping at the dilatory mode of obtaining satisfaction by diplomatic complaints, the arms of government should be immediately pointed to the offender; when a commander of a ship of war shall insolently and wantonly break through the rules established by neutral nations, he should be denied the enjoyment of neutral rights.

Though we are sincerely disposed to pursue pacific measures with all nations, yet their subjects shall not be permitted to affront us on our own territory,

Capt. Home and his crew should be informed that the ports of America should be shut to them as men who have violated the rights of nations the rights of their own nation and of ours. Whilst foreigners treat us with decency and justice they shall find us the friends of mankind, but at the same time that we are men who know our rights and how to protect them.

I.