It cannot be necessary for me to premise to you, or to others who know my Sentiments as well, that to quit the tranquil walks of retirement, and enter the boundless field of responsibility and trouble, would be productive of sensations which a better pen than I possess would find it difficult to describe. Nevertheless, the principle by which my conduct has been actuated through life, would not suffer me, in any great emergency, to withhold any services I could render, required by my Country. especially in a case where its dearest rights are assailed by lawless ambition, and intoxicated power, contrary to every principle of justice, and in violation of solemn compact, and Laws which govern all Civilized Nations. And this too with obvious intent to sow thick the Seeds of disunion for the purpose of subjugating the Government and destroying our Independence and happiness.

Under circumstances like these accompanied by an actual Invasion of our territorial rights, it would be difficult for me, at any time, to remain an idle spectator under the plea of Age or Retirement. With sorrow, it is true, I should quit the shades of my peaceful abode and the ease and happiness I now enjoy to encounter anew the turmoils of War to which, possibly, my strength and powers might be found incompetent. These, however, should not be stumbling blocks in my own way; but there are other things highly important for me to ascertain, and settle, before I could give a decided answer to your question.