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Subject Area: Political Theory
Topic: The American Revolution and Constitution

TO J. MCHENRY, SECRETARY OF WAR. - John Adams, The Works of John Adams, vol. 8 (Letters and State Papers 1782-1799) [1853]

Edition used:

The Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States: with a Life of the Author, Notes and Illustrations, by his Grandson Charles Francis Adams (Boston: Little, Brown and Co., 1856). 10 volumes. Vol. 8.

Part of: The Works of John Adams, 10 vols.

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TO J. MCHENRY, SECRETARY OF WAR.

I agree with you in your opinion, expressed in your favor of the 12th, that both an army and navy establishment are essential to the present and future interests and greatness of the United States, and that we must run the risks which other nations have run. It appeared to me that offices were created, and salaries made necessary, in the plan for supplying the army, which would require the interposition of Congress. But if the powers already given to administration are sufficient, I am satisfied.2 I wish only that the heads of department may be satisfied, and that no embarrassments may be brought upon them, which they are not previously apprised of.

[2 ]See page 654 for Mr. Adams’s first letter on this subject. Mr. McHenry thought the powers amply sufficient, but he promised to submit the question to the members of the cabinet, for their mature opinions. None such are to be found among Mr. Adams’s papers.