Adams with proper prudence thought it would be wise to consider what should be done in case of failure.

On January 24, 1798, he addressed to the members of his Cabinet a letter requesting their views.

No record is preserved of the replies of the Secretaries of State and of the Treasury.

Lee, the Attorney-General, recommended a declaration of war.

McHenry, the Secretary of War, offered a series of seven propositions to be recommended to Congress: 1.