1

Knoxville 4 May 1798

Sir

I learn with regret the menaced situation
of our common Country - I am led to believe
that every possible prudent and honorable means have
been pursued with an ardent desire, for the
restoration of peace and harmony; but in case
these laudable intentions of accommodation, should,
fail, and nothing but the a recourse to arms
must be the alternative, be assured sir, that
my cordial and utmost exertions, with the good
people of the state shall and will be devoted
to in ^supporting, protecting, and defending, our country
against any invader that may dare to
attack us - not far from this place &
on the main river holeston, I have a new
and well erected set of Iron Works, suitable
for the casting almost every kettle kind of
mettle [sic], and manufactoring [sic] of bar
Iron, the same shall on the shortest notice