Scope and Contents He expresses regret that he has not heard from him, but knows how busy he is. People are greatly disturbed by the "critical situation of American Commerce occasioned by the unprecedented depredation of British Agents and Subjects." Forty American ships were confiscated when the British captured Gaudaloup. He is concerned about the Americans who have fallen into slavery under the Barbary pirates. The British have stirred up the Indians and fortified as their own territory. Gov. [John Graves] Simcoe of Canada has fortified the rapids at the foot of the Miami River. The majority of Representatives have been crying for vengenance against British intrigue. The President has sent John Jay to try to work out negotiations between the two countries. The country is quite prosperous except for the interference of the British. Manufacturing of woolens and cotten cloths has increased and nothing seen but home spun. Local distilleries and breweries are rapidly increasing and pushing out foreign competition due to the cheapness of their goods. The majority of the Americans want to cut out the British and "the cause of the French is the cause of America." Some people have been tarred and feathered for their British sympathies. Macaulay and Charlton of York, agents of British merchants, have had to be quiet or run the risk of abuse and molestation. The recipient's brother [Wm.C.Galt] is beginning to study "physic" under their father and natural and moral philosophy at William and Mary.