To the Representatives of the Mississippi Territory.

July, 1809.

I have duly received your address of July 5, and cannot be the less impressed by your friendly confidence in my principles and views, that it is entertained by a portion of my political brethren, under the circumstances incident to the Mississippi Territory.

The Constitution of the United States is well entitled to the high character you assign to it. It is among the proofs of its merit that it is capable of inspiring with admiration and attachment the most distant members of the comprehensive family over whom its guardianship extends. And it is equally honorable to their enlarged patriotism to cherish those sentiments, whilst the immaturity of their situation suspends a part of the advantages common to their fellow-citizens of the elder communities.

With my cordial respects, I offer a return of my best wishes for the prosperity and happiness of yourselves, and of the community which you represent.