180

    To Nathaniel Barrell

    Philadelphia        2 January 1799

    Dear Sir

    I have recieved yours of the 15th last, and read it with much pleasure—as well that part I do not think just, as much the greater part which I believe is so—that part which is of a practical nature will certainly be particularly attended to if circumstances permit1—A Representative is hardly at liberty to make any personal distinctions between those who are his friends & such as may oppose his election. His eye must over look all these subjects of dispute, & fix on the general Good; which his enemies as well as his friends may have in view2

    That you should think my friend [Joseph] Priestley wrong is what I should calculate upon, & yet look upon you both good honest men—Your views of the Christian Scheem are to[o] varient to permit you to think very favourably of each other; but as I am personally acquainted with you both I can will make all such allowances for your Judgment towards each other that cander & charity make necessary—On this subject we will converse hereafter3

    We have no foreign news, but what came yesterday in the Boston papers from Hambourgh [Germany], & arrived at Newbury-Port—

    I believe I may tell you our national affairs will take a favourable turn4—I intended to have said something more on general Subjects but the Post-boy calls for my Letter5

    And I must subscribe myself your friend & obedient Servant

    * * *

    ALS, Barrell Correspondence. Addressed to York; franked; postmarked; received 14 January.