Mount Vernon 30 May 1797 Sir, Your letter of the 22d Ult has been duly received, and I pray you to accept my thanks for the favourable sentiments you have been pleased to express for me, and of my Administration of the Government. If all our Citizens were actuated by the principles you profess, it would much promote the happiness and prosperity of our Country. I have not unpacked the Papers yet, which I brought from Philadelphia; but I may venture before hand to pronounce, that the letters you enquire after were left with others of a similar nature for the information of my Successor; If, however, I should be mistaken in this, they shall, when found, be transmitted to you; as it is my determination not to interfere - directly or indirectly - in recommendations to Office. [2] It is very pleasing to me to learn from such good authority, that the People of the State of Tennessee are [strikeout] well affected to the General Government, and that your prospect of Peace with the Indians is not likely to be seriously interrupted. For the other information contained in your letter I feel myself indebted to your goodness - and am Sir Your most Obedt. Hble Ser Go: Washington Mr. William. C.C. Claiborne.