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JESUP N. COUCH TO WORTHINGTON

Chillicothe February the 27th 1812

Hond Sir

Your friendly letter of the l9th inst, was received by the last mail, and for which I tender a proper acknowledgement.

I cannot but feel much indebted to you sir, for the candid and (I conceive) con- fidential impression of your sentiments, on the important subject of war measures, which are now claiming the serious attention of Congress. Although the Gallatin's Report will damp the spirit of the times, yet if the American people are determined on war, they must yield to the necessity of supporting it; war is indeed unpleasant to the wise politician, who foresees its concomitant evils, but nations, like indi- viduals, must improve from experience, and the errors of the people will always lead them to reflect on their real situation and often conduct them to wisdom and prosperi- ty.

You have head by this time, of the adjournment of the legislature, and the the temporary removal of the Seat of Government! The Legislature rose on friday last, and the Western members while passing through town, appeared much gratified, in the victory they had accomplished. It was indeed a hard fought battle, & though I did not vote for all of our members, I am willing to give them due credit for their management and perseverance; - We are however very much indebted to our Western friends. H. Stone (a Senator from Hamilton) and McCullough (a member from Champaign were the only one West of the Scioto, but what voted for the passage of the Bill; - Huntington is said discharged all his virulem against Chillicothe, - Col. Jackson and he are in low Spirits, I fear the Complaint is dangerous' An attempt was made to destroy a quorum in the lower house to prevent the passage of the Bill - but unsuc- cessful - ; it is reported, that a man high in office -privately recommended this, as the last resort to retain the seat at Zanesville.

You have doubtless heard of our Congressional District and every thing that has transpired at Zanesville worthy of notice. -

I was difficult at first on hearing the news of the Seat of G. to prevent an ex- cess of exaltation among our citizens, - they however became moderate - and no im- prudence on that account can be charged to them.

For some mails past - the complaints have been increasing against Our Postmaster - I regret it most seriously on account of himself & family; he has been a kind & attentive P.M. - but not (illeg.] to forbear any longer the citizens, I understand it recommended Mr. James Ferguson who would doubtless give general satisfaction. -

Not supposing your exchange your Hond station in Congress, many enquire whether Mr Morrow will be as Candidate for the next Governor; indeed we are all in doubt on this subject & should be glad to know whether he will consent to stand a poll at the next election. I learn from the members there will an opposition to Mr. Meigs Very Respectfully Your Obedt Servt.

Jesup N. Couch

Hond Thomas Worthington Esq

68