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Presence of an American of veracity that the British gov't would land in Florida 12 black regt's consisting of 14000 men and that the officers would offer a bounty to all negroes who should join them. Otis says he has no doubt that the declaration was made. They will probably unclear our deliberations upon the Florida question. I believe we can now carry it in the Senate and no time will be lost in bringing the question to a decision. Both the Louisiana Senators have taken their seats. If Hamilton remains and the Successor of Eustis should be? good for nothing, you must prepare a successor for me. I am determined not to be the drudge of an administration who do nothing for themselves, but hang as a millstone about the necks of their friends. If you were in the war department I should have faith that would keep me alive. Not knowing whether you would accept, and knowing also that unless the