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Page [1] view page image I had the pleasure to receive yesterday, your friendly Letter of the With respect to the disbanding of the additional Army I still think, that the measure would have been proper;__ An Invasion of our Territory, is a possible, but (in my opinion) not a probable event one thing however is very certain that the existence of the additional Army would not avert an Invasion if one is intended & if it should be effected, the additional Army, would be inadequate to the repelling of an invading Foe;__ the militia of the Country must be resorted to, send to them we should look for the permanent defence of our Country__ But you are certainly accurate in saying that we should combine discipline with force; But this discipline should be applied to the militia, and every Page [2] view page image every shilling , which the reduction of the additional Regiments, would have retained in the Treasury, & should have wished expended in furnishing Arms for the Militia, and for paying old & experienced officers, to be employed in the different States, for the purpose of training the Officers and privates of the militia_ I am very far however, from wishing the Army entirely reduced, on the contrary I am a firm friend to the permanent Regiments, & shall always think, that a small military Force to garrison the Forts established on the Frontiers and Sea_ Board, will always be necessary_ I agree with you, that unanimity in our National Council should be encouraged, on [gap] Page [3] view page image lar disposition is possessed by the Citizens of the Union, for myself, I dread not the Power of France , or even of all Europe combined The enclosed paper, will give you the latest News__ Accept my best wishes
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