Thompson, Thomas W., 1766-1821 to John Langdon

Written by New Hampshire Congressman Thompson to Langdon as Governor of New Hampshire. Says nothing of interest has occurred since the suspension of the non-importation law. Claims domestic issues take up most of their time. Has hope that negotiations with Britain and France are going well. Says that Aaron Burr's presence in Louisiana gave the Jefferson Administration great anxiety. But the capture of part of his flotilla and the probable capture of the rest, has relieved Jefferson. Jefferson considers Burr's insurrection suppressed. That being said, he reports that General James Wilkinson is in New Orleans and his dispatches to the Secretary of War as late as 30 November say the city will fall to Burr immediately unless government assistance is proferred. Claims "This enterprise of Burrs is certainly one of the most mysterious & extraordinary I ever heard of. Says that Jefferson thought Burr wanted to capture Mexico first and then New Orleans and Louisiana. Also says they are framing a bill "to prevent the importation of slaves after the commencement of the year 1808, but find it difficult to dispose of the poor fellows who may be imported contrary to law." Says the southerners "revolt" at the idea of having them set free because insurrection will inevitably take place. But says that "Eastern gentleman are very unwilling to restrain the unalienable right to personal liberty common to all men." Goes on to discuss European affairs and his concerns about Napoleon's ambitions. Is nervous that Great Britain will fall to Napoleon which he feels will have a negative effect on the United States. Will find Langdon a copy of the National Intelligencer so he can read the latest news.