1823 Jan¼y 30 Trip. H. to Q.A ?.9. Objections answered

Let it not be said /Objection/ Ungrounded would be the /any/ objection that this

which is proposed to you would be an act of unprovoked hostility against a

nation /State/ with which you are at peace or that by engaging in the enterprize

Your Government /Executive/ would be making itself the /an/ instrument of

private ambition.

As to hostility © if in your judgment the effect of it instead of beneficial

would be detrimental to the welfare of our State, you will not engage in it: or

at any rate if you do, the fault will be yours not mine: whatever benefit I may

reap from it persuaded as I am of its being the best if not the only chance our

State has of benefiting its condition, and preserving itself not only from the

constant misery of slavery and unceasing subjection to despotism but from the

frequently recurring miseries of civil war, I have no blame /reproach/ to take

to myself for the proposal

In no hostile feeling © in no feelings other than those of affection on my part

has it had its rise: in no sentiment of revenge /desire of vengeance/ for

injuries real or supposed or pretended. Towards /At the hands of/ the Sovereign

I have no injuries to complain of: I have nothing but kindnesses to remember. I

am in possession I flatter myself of no small share in his confidence the whole

tenor of my intercourse with him is in every part of it a proof of that

confidence: the melioration of his own condition © the preservation of his own

family are as I began with stating to you among the prime objects of my

solicitude and my endeavours. It is not therefore to hostile but to the most

affectionate feelings, /wishes/ and endeavours/ that your assistance is desired

/sought/.