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Washington 12th Dec. 1812 Dear Sir. Your favor of the 24th has been duly rec'd. I am extremely sorry to hear that any suspicions of improper motives have been entertained against Col. unclear. Certainly there never was more gallantry displayed by any body of men than this expedition exhibited. I trust he will be able to refute these charges to the satisfaction of the public. When I retire from my present situation, it will be with an intention of remaining a private citizen. If I am ever brought forward again I can assure it will be in opposition to any man who belongs to the Republican phalanx. I had determined to resign after the close of the present session unless Mr Madison changed two of his Sec.y's and appointed as their successors men qualified to discharge the duties of those offices. Eustis has resigned, and we confidently expected