Political conversations I really dislike, and therefore avoid where
I can without affectation. But when urged by others, I have never
conceived that having been in public life requires me to belie my
sentiments, or even to conceal them. When I am led by conversation to
express them, I do it with the same independence here, which I have
practised every where, and which is inseparable from my nature. But
enough of this miserable tergiversator, who ought indeed either to have
been of more truth, or less trusted by his country.*
[* Here, in the margin of the copy, is written, apparently
at a later date, * General H. Lee.']
While on the subject of papers, permit me to ask one from you. You
remember the difference of opinion between Hamilton and Knox on the one
part, and myself on the other, on the subject of firing on the Little
Sarah, and that we had exchanged opinions and reasons in writing. On
your arrival in Philadelphia I delivered you a copy of my reasons, in
the presence of Colonel Hamilton. On our withdrawing, he told me he had
been so much engaged that he had not been able to prepare a copy of his
and General Knox's for you, and that if I would send you the one he had
given me, he would replace it in a few days. I immediately sent it to
you, wishing you should see both sides of the subject together.
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