The above remarks you will discover, are predicated upon the supposition that this celebrated letter, if produced, would contain sentiments and language, discreditable lo its author and from the incorrect and garbled manner in which its co11tc11ls arc attempted lo be quoted by Col. Fannin, the public, until heller informed, will entertain the same opinion. Col. Fannin allempts lo give extracts, vcrbatum ct literatim. When Lhal part of his lelter which I perceive has been published by order of the council with great eclat, containing the extract, was compared with the original in my possession, in the presence of several intelligent and respectable gentlemen, they were all astonished al the misquotations and perversion of its general sense and meaning. If I could feel myself absolved from the delicacy of my situation, and could with propriety divulge the original lo the world, mankind would sec in this but another instance to what shameful means party spirit will descend in the might of its malignant rancor. · And I feel deeply mortified that not content, not only with abusing my confidence and uncourleously presenting me to the public in the character of an inf orm.cr, he should give a false coloring to a document, which, if plainly read and fairly construed, would mark the purity and patriotism of Lhe man who permed il. It belongs not to me lo counsel Gov. Smith what might he conducive to his defense, nor to his enemies whal might contribute to his condemnation; but I do honestly affirm that in my humble op1111on, if this letter, which has been so unhandsomely used to his disadvantage, could be read before his peers on his trial, it would be found to contain not one expression that would cause the hue of shame to tinge the countenance of a single friend. True, il is warm, even violent, bul even this (its very error), shows the sincerity of his determination to advance, al all hazards, what he conceives to be the true inlerests of his country, and to oppose even lo the extent of self-immolation what may redound to her injury and ruin. Intending, gen~lcmen, lo keep myself aloof from all party connections; determined lo chain myself lo the car of no political sect, and desirous lo discharge my military duties to the satisfaction and approbation of my adopted country, I have thought it an acl of justice Lo myself lo. offer you the above
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