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| author | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-15 04:49:40 -0700 |
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| committer | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-15 04:49:40 -0700 |
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diff --git a/old/16782-h.htm.2020-12-12 b/old/16782-h.htm.2020-12-12 new file mode 100644 index 0000000..dde59f3 --- /dev/null +++ b/old/16782-h.htm.2020-12-12 @@ -0,0 +1,25148 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en"> + <head> + <title> + Memoir, Correspondence, and Miscellanies, from the Papers of Thomas + Jefferson, Vol. 2 + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd7; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {display:inline; font-size: 70%; font-style:normal; + margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%; + text-align: right;} + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of Memoir, Correspondence, And Miscellanies, +From The Papers Of Thomas Jefferson, by Thomas Jefferson + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Memoir, Correspondence, And Miscellanies, From The Papers Of Thomas Jefferson + +Author: Thomas Jefferson + +Editor: Thomas Jefferson Randolph + +Illustrator: Steel engraving by Longacre from painting of G. Stuart + +Release Date: September 30, 2005 [EBook #16782] +Last Updated: September 8, 2016 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: UTF-8 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE WRITINGS OF THOMAS JEFFERSON *** + + + + +Produced by David Widger + + + + + +</pre> + + <p> + <br /> <a name="linkimage-0001" id="linkimage-0001"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%"> + <img src="images/spines.jpg" + alt="Book Spines, 1829 Set of Jefferson Papers " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h1> + MEMOIR, CORRESPONDENCE, AND MISCELLANIES, <br /> FROM THE PAPERS OF THOMAS + JEFFERSON. + </h1> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h2> + Edited by Thomas Jefferson Randolph. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <table summary="" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto" cellpadding="4" border="3"> + <tbody> + <tr> + <td> + <a href="#linkcontents"><big><b>Contents</b></big></a> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + <a href="#linkillustrations"><big><b>Illustrations</b></big></a> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + <a + href="https://www.gutenberg.org/dirs/1/6/7/8/16781/16781-h/16781-h.htm"><big><b>Volume + I.</b></big></a> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + <a + href="https://www.gutenberg.org/dirs/1/6/7/8/16783/16783-h/16783-h.htm"><big><b>Volume + III.</b></big></a> + </td> + </tr> + <tr> + <td> + <a + href="https://www.gutenberg.org/dirs/1/6/7/8/16784/16784-h/16784-h.htm"><big><b>Volume + IV.</b></big></a> + </td> + </tr> + </tbody> + </table> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="linkimage-0002" id="linkimage-0002"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%"> + <img src="images/frontispiece.jpg" + alt="Steel Engraving by Longacre from Painting of G. Stuart " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <a name="linkimage-0003" id="linkimage-0003"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + </p> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%"> + <img src="images/TP2.jpg" alt="Titlepage of Volume Two (of Four) " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h3> + VOLUME TWO + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="linkcontents" id="linkcontents"></a><br /> + </p> + <blockquote> + <h2> + CONTENTS + </h2> + <p> + <a href="#link2H_4_0001"> LETTER I.</a> TO RICHARD HENRY LEE, + April 22, 1786 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0002"> LETTER II.</a> TO + CHARLES THOMSON, April 22, 1786 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0003"> + LETTER III.</a> TO JOHN JAY, April 23, 1786 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0004"> LETTER IV.</a> TO JOHN JAY, April 23, + 1786 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0005"> LETTER V.</a> TO + JAMES MADISON, April 25, 1786 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0006"> + LETTER VI.</a> TO THE COUNT DE VERGENNES, May 3, 1786 <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2H_4_0007"> LETTER VII.</a> TO JOHN PAGE, May + 4, 1786 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0008"> LETTER VIII.</a> TO + WILLIAM CARMICHAEL <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0009"> LETTER IX.</a> TO + MR. DUMAS, May 6, 1789 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0010"> LETTER X.</a> TO + WILLIAM DRAYTON, May 6, 1786 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0011"> LETTER + XI.</a> TO W. T. FRANKLIN, May 7, 1786 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0012"> LETTER XII.</a> TO ELBRIDGE GERRY, May + 7, 1786 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0013"> LETTER XIII.</a> TO + JAMES ROSS, May 8, 1786 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0014"> LETTER XIV.</a> TO + T. PLEASANTS, May 8,1786 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0015"> LETTER XV.</a> TO + COLONEL MONROE, May 10,1786 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0016"> LETTER + XVI.</a> TO JOHN ADAMS, May 11, 1786 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0017"> LETTER XVII.</a> TO LISTER ASQUITH, + May 22, 1786 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0018"> LETTER XVIII.</a> TO + JOHN JAY, May 23, 1786 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0019"> LETTER XIX.</a> TO + MR. CARMICHAEL, June 20, 1786 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0020"> + LETTER XX.</a> TO MR. LAMBE, June 20,1786 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0021"> LETTER XXI..</a> TO MONSIEUR DE + REYNEVAL, June 25, 1786 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0022"> LETTER + XXII.</a> TO THE PREVOT DES MARCHANDS, September 27, 1786 + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0023"> LETTER XXIII.</a> TO + COLONEL MONROE, July 9, 1786 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0024"> LETTER + XXIV.</a> TO JOHN ADAMS, July 11, 1786 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0025"> LETTER XXV.</a> TO JOHN JAY, August + 11, 1786 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0026"> LETTER XXVI.</a> TO + COLONEL MONROE, August 11, 1786 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0027"> + LETTER XXVII.</a> TO MR. WYTHE, August 13,1786 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0028"> LETTER XXVIII.</a> TO MRS. COSWAY, + October 12, 1786 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0029"> LETTER XXIX.</a> TO + MRS. COSWAY, October 13, 1786 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0030"> + LETTER XXX.</a> M. LE ROY DE L’ACADEMIE DES SCIENCES, + November 13, 1786 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0031"> LETTER XXXI.</a> TO + GENERAL WASHINGTON, November 14, 1786 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0032"> + LETTER XXXII.</a> TO JAMES MADISON, December 16, 1786 <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2H_4_0033"> LETTER XXXIII.</a> TO CHARLES + THOMSON, December 17,1780 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0034"> LETTER + XXXIV.</a> TO COLONEL MONROE, December 18, 1786 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0035"> LETTER XXXV.</a> TO MR. CARMICHAEL, + December 26,1786 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0036"> LETTER XXXVI.</a> TO + MR. VAUGHAN, December 29, 1786 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0037"> + LETTER XXXVII.</a> TO JOHN JAY, December 31, 1786 <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2H_4_0038"> LETTER XXXVIII.</a> TO SAMUEL + OSGOOD, January 5, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0039"> LETTER + XXXIX.</a> TO JOHN JAY, January 9, 1787 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0040"> LETTER XL.</a> TO JOHN ADAMS, January + 11, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0041"> LETTER XLI.</a> TO + MONSIEUR LE DUC D’HARCOURT, January 14, 1787 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0042"> LETTER XLII.</a> TO MONSIEUR DE + CREVE-COEUR, January 15,1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0043"> LETTER + XLIII.</a> TO COLONEL EDWARD CARRINGTON, January 16, 1787 + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0044"> LETTER XLIV</a> TO JAMES + MADISON, January 30, 1787 * <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0045"> LETTER + XLV.</a> TO JOHN JAY, February 1, 1787 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0046"> LETTER XLVI.</a> TO MRS. BINGHAM, + February 7, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0047"> LETTER XLVII.</a> TO + GOVERNOR RANDOLPH, February 7, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0048"> + LETTER XLVIII.</a> TO JOHN JAY, February 8, 1787 <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2H_4_0049"> LETTER XLIX.</a> TO MR. DUMAS, + February 9, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0050"> LETTER L.</a> TO + JOHN JAY, February 14, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0051"> LETTER + LI.</a> TO JOHN JAY, February 23, 1787 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0052"> LETTER LII.</a> TO THE MARQUIS DE LA + FAYETTE, February 28, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0053"> LETTER + LIII.</a> TO MADAME LA COMTESSE DE TESSE, March 20, 1787 + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0054"> LETTER LIV.</a> TO THE + MARQUIS DE LA FAYETTE, April 11, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0055"> + LETTER LV.</a> TO WILLIAM SHORT, April 12, 1787 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0056"> LETTER LVI.</a> TO JOHN JAY, May 4, + 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0057"> LETTER LVII.</a> TO + M. GUIDE, May 6, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0058"> MEMORANDA</a> TAKEN + ON A JOURNEY FROM PARIS IN 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0059"> + LETTER LVIII.</a> TO WILLIAM CARMICHAEL, June 14, 1787 <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2H_4_0060"> LETTER LIX.</a> TO J. BANNISTER, + JUNIOR, June 19, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0061"> LETTER LX.</a> TO + JAMES MADISON, June 20, 1787* <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0062"> + LETTER LXI.</a> TO JOHN JAY, June 21,1787 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0063"> LETTER LXII.</a> TO MADAME DE CORNY, + June 30,1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0064"> LETTER LXIII.</a> TO + JOHN ADAMS, July 1, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0065"> LETTER + LXIV.</a> TO DAVID HARTLEY, July 2,1787 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0066"> LETTER LXV.</a> TO B. VAUGHAN, July 2, + 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0067"> LETTER LXVI.</a> TO + M. L’ABBE MORELLET, July 2, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0068"> + OBSERVATIONS</a> ON THE LETTER OF MONSIEUR DE CALONNE <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2H_4_0069"> LETTER LXVII.</a> TO T. M. + RANDOLPH, JUNIOR, July 6, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0070"> + LETTER LXVIII.</a> TO STEPHEN CATHALAN, JUNIOR, July 21,1787 + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0071"> LETTER LXIX.</a> TO THE + DELEGATES OF RHODE ISLAND, July 22,1787 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0072"> LETTER LXX.</a> TO THE COUNT DE + MONTMORIN, July 23, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0073"> LETTER + LXXI.</a> TO MR. SKIPWITH, July 28, 1787 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0074"> LETTER LXXII.</a> TO J. W. EPPES, July + 28,1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0075"> LETTER LXXIII.</a> TO + A. DONALD, July 28, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0076"> LETTER + LXXIV.</a> TO WILLIAM DRAYTON, July 30, 1787 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0077"> LETTER LXXV.</a> TO JAMES MADISON, + August 2, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0078"> LETTER LXXVI.</a> TO + THOMAS BARCLAY, August 3, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0079"> + LETTER LXXVII.</a> TO E. CARRINGTON, August 4,1787 <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2H_4_0080"> LETTER LXXVIII.</a> TO DR. CURRIE, + August 4, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0081"> LETTER LXXIX.</a> TO + MR. HAWKINS, August 4, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0082"> LETTER + LXXX.</a> TO COLONEL MONROE, August 5, 1787 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0083"> LETTER LXXXI.</a> TO JOHN JAY, August + 6,1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0084"> LETTER LXXXII.</a> TO + JOHN CHURCHMAN, August 8, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0085"> + LETTER LXXXIII.</a> TO MONSIEUR L HOMMANDE, August 9, 1787 + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0086"> LETTER LXXXIV.</a> TO + PETER CARR, August 10, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0087"> LETTER + LXXXV.</a> TO DR. GILMER, August 11, 1787 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0088"> LETTER LXXXVI.</a> TO JOSEPH JONES, + August 14, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0089"> LETTER LXXXVII.</a> TO + GENERAL WASHINGTON, August 14, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0090"> + LETTER LXXXVIII.</a> TO COLONEL HUMPHREYS, August 14, 1787 + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0091"> LETTER LXXXIX.</a> TO + JOHN JAY, August 15, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0092"> LETTER + XC.</a> TO JOHN ADAMS, August 30, 1787 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0093"> LETTER XCI.</a> TO MR. WYTHE, + September 16,1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0094"> LETTER XCII.</a> TO + JOHN JAY, September 19, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0095"> LETTER + XCIII.</a> TO CHARLES THOMSON, September 20, 1787 <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2H_4_0096"> LETTER XCIV.</a> TO JOHN JAY, + September 22,1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0097"> LETTER XCV.</a> TO + JOHN JAY, September 22, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0098"> LETTER + XCVI.</a> TO MR. CARNES, September 22, 1787 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0099"> LETTER XCVII.</a> TO JOHN JAY, + September 24, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0100"> LETTER XCVIII,</a> TO + JOHN ADAMS, September 28, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0101"> + LETTER XCIX.</a> TO COLONEL SMITH, September 28,1787 <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2H_4_0102"> LETTER C.</a> TO MONSIEUR LE COMTE + DE BUFFON, October 3, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0103"> LETTER + CI.</a> TO MR. DUMAS, October 4,1787 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0104"> LETTER CII.</a> TO JOHN JAY, October + 8, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0105"> LETTER CIII.</a> TO + JAMES MADISON, October 8, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0106"> + LETTER CIV.</a> TO JOHN JAY, October 8, 1787 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0107"> LETTER CV.</a> TO MONSIEUR LE COMTE DE + MOUSTIER, October 9,1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0108"> LETTER + CVI.</a> TO MADAME DE BREHAN, October 9, 1787 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0109"> LETTER CVII.</a> TO MR. DUMAS, October + 14, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0110"> LETTER CVIII.</a> TO + MADAME DE CORNY, October 18, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0111"> + LETTER CIX.</a> TO THE COUNT DE MONTMORIN, October 23, 1787 + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0112"> LETTER CX.</a> TO JOHN + JAY, November 3, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0113"> LETTER CXI.</a> TO + JOHN JAY, November 3, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0114"> LETTER + CXII.</a> TO THE COUNT DE MONTMORIN, November 6, 1787 <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2H_4_0115"> LETTER CXIII.</a> TO JOHN ADAMS, + November 13, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0116"> LETTER CXIV.</a> TO + COLONEL SMITH, November 13, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0117"> + LETTER CXV.</a> TO WILLIAM CARMICHAEL, December 11, 1787 + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0118"> LETTER CXVI.</a> TO JOHN + ADAMS <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0119"> LETTER CXVII.</a> TO + JAMES MADISON, December 20, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0120"> + LETTER CXVIII.</a> TO E. CARRINGTON, December 21, 1787 <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2H_4_0121"> LETTER CXIX.</a> TO MONSIEUR + LIMOZIN, December 22, 1787 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0122"> LETTER + CXX.</a> TO JOHN JAY, December 31, 1787 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0123"> LETTER CXXI.</a> TO MONSIEUR LAMBERT, + January 3, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0124"> LETTER CXXII.</a> TO + LE COMTE BERNSTORFF, January 21, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0125"> + LETTER CXXIII.</a> TO WILLIAM RUTLEDGE, February 2, 1788 + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0126"> LETTER CXXIV.</a> TO THE + COMMISSIONERS OF THE TREASURY, Feb. 7, 1788 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0127"> LETTER CXXV.</a> TO DOCTOR PRICE, + February 7, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0128"> LETTER CXXVI.</a> TO + A. DONALD, February.7, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0129"> LETTER + CXXVII.</a> TO M. WARVILLE, February 12, 1888 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0130"> LETTER CXXVIII.</a> TO JOHN ADAMS, + March 2, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0131"> LETTER CXXIX.</a> TO + JOHN JAY, March 16, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0132"> LETTER + CXXX.</a> TO MR. DUMAS, March 29, 1788 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0133"> LETTER CXXXI.</a> TO THE COMMISSIONERS + OF THE TREASURY, March 29, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0134"> + LETTER CXXXII.</a> TO GENERAL WASHINGTON, May 2, 1788 <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2H_4_0135"> LETTER CXXXIII.</a> TO JAMES + MADISON, May 3,1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0136"> LETTER CXXXIV.</a> TO + JOHN JAY, May 4, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0137"> LETTER CXXXV.</a> TO + THE COUNT DE MOUSTIER, May 17, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0138"> + LETTER CXXXVI.</a> TO JOHN JAY, May 23,1788 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0139"> LETTER CXXXVII.</a> TO JOHN BROWN, May + 26,1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0140"> LETTER CXXXVIII.</a> TO + WILLIAM CARMICHAEL, May 27, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0141"> + LETTER CXXXIX.</a> TO JOHN JAY, May 27, 1788 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0142"> LETTER CXL.*</a> TO JAMES MADISON, May + 28, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0143"> LETTER CXLI.</a> TO + PETER CARU, May 23, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0144"> LETTER + CXLII.</a> TO THE COMTE DE BERNSTORFF, June 19, 1788 <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2H_4_0145"> LETTER CXLIII.</a> TO THE COUNT DE + MONTMORIN, June 20, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0146"> LETTER + CXLIV.</a> TO DOCTOR GORDON, July 16, 1788 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0147"> LETTER CXLV.</a> TO JAMES MADISON, + July 19, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0148"> LETTER CXLVI.</a> TO + E. RUTLEDGE, July 18, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0149"> LETTER + CXLVII.</a> TO MR. BELLINI, July 25,1788 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0150"> LETTER CXLVIII.</a> TO JAMES MADISON, + July 31, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0151"> LETTER CXLIX.</a> TO + JOHN JAY, August 3, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0152"> LETTER CL.</a> TO + COLONEL MONROE, August 9, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0153"> + LETTER CLI.</a> TO MONSIEUR DE CREVE-COEUR, August 9, 1788 + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0154"> LETTER CLII.</a> TO JOHN + JAY, August 10, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0155"> LETTER CLIII.</a> TO + JOHN JAY, August 11, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0156"> LETTER + CLIV.</a> TO WILLIAM CARMICHAEL, August 12, 1788 <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2H_4_0157"> LETTER CLV.</a> TO M. CATHALAN, + August 13,1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0158"> LETTER CLVI.</a> TO + JOHN JAY, August 20,1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0159"> LETTER + CLVII.</a> TO MR. CUTTING, August 23, 1788 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0160"> LETTER CLVIII.</a> TO JOHN JAY, + September 3, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0161"> LETTER CLIX.</a> TO + THE COMMISSIONERS OF THE TREASURY, Sep. 6, 1788 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0162"> LETTER CLX.</a> TO THE COUNT DE + MONTMORIN, <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0163"> LETTER CLXI.</a> TO + M. DE REYNEVAL, September 16, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0164"> + LETTER CLXII.</a> TO THE MARQUIS DE LA ROUERIE, September + 16,1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0165"> LETTER CLXIII.</a> TO + WILLIAM SHORT, September 20, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0166"> + LETTER CLXIV.</a> TO JOHN JAY, September 24,1788 <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2H_4_0167"> LETTER CLXV.</a> TO M. DE REYNEVAL, + October 1, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0168"> LETTER CLXVI.</a> TO + MR. CUTTING, October 2, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0169"> LETTER + CLXVIII.</a> TO JAMES MADISON, November 18, 1788 <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2H_4_0170"> LETTER CLXIX.</a> TO A. DONALD, + November 18,1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0171"> LETTER CLXX.</a> TO + JOHN JAY, November 19, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0172"> LETTER + CLXXI.</a> TO JOHN JAY, November 29, 1788 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0173"> LETTER, CLXXII.</a> TO GENERAL + WASHINGTON, December 4, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0174"> LETTER + CLXXIII.</a> TO JOHN ADAMS, December 5, 1788 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0175"> LETTER CLXXIV.</a> TO MR. SHORT, + December 8, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0176"> LETTER CLXXV.</a> TO + DOCTOR GILMER, December 16, 1788 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0177"> + LETTER CLXXVI.</a> TO THOMAS PAINE, December 23,1788 <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2H_4_0178"> LETTER CLXXVII.</a> TO JOHN JAY, + January 11, 1789 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0179"> LETTER CLXXVIII.</a> TO + JAMES MADISON, January 12, 1789 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0180"> + LETTER CLXXIX.</a> TO JOHN JAY, January 14, 1789 <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2H_4_0181"> LETTER CLXXX.</a> TO MADAME NECKER, + January 24, 1789 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0182"> LETTER CLXXXI.</a> TO + JOHN JAY, February 1, 1789 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0183"> LETTER + CLXXXII.</a> TO JOHN JAY, February 4, 1789 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0184"> LETTER CLXXXIII.</a> TO WILLIAM SHORT, + February 9,1789 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0185"> LETTER CLXXXIV.</a> TO + M. DE VILLEDEUIL, February 10, 1789 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0186"> + LETTER CLXXXV.</a> TO MR. CARNES, February 15,1789 <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2H_4_0187"> LETTER CLXXXVI.</a> TO DR. + BANCROFT, March 2, 1789 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0188"> LETTER + CLXXXVII.</a> TO M. DE MALESHERBES, March 11, 1789 <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2H_4_0189"> LETTER CLXXXVIII.</a> TO JOHN JAY, + March 12, 1789 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0190"> LETTER CLXXXIX.</a> TO + F. HOPKINSON, March 13, 1789 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0191"> LETTER + CXC.</a> TO MADAME DE BREHAN, March 14, 1789 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0192"> LETTER CXCI.</a> TO JAMES MADISON, + March 15, 1789 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0193"> LETTER, CXCII.</a> TO + THOMAS PAINE, March 17,1789 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0194"> LETTER + CXIII.</a> TO COLONEL HUMPHREYS, March 18, 1789 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0195"> LETTER CXCIV.</a> TO DOCTOR WILLARD, + March 24, 1789 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0196"> LETTER CXCV.</a> TO + J. SARSFIELD, April 3, 1789 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0197"> LETTER + CXCVI.</a> TO THE MARQUIS DE LA FAYETTE, May 6,1789 <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2H_4_0198"> LETTER CXCVII.</a> TO WILLIAM + CARMICHAEL, May 8, 1789 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0199"> LETTER + CXCVIII.</a> TO JOHN JAY, May 9, 1789 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0200"> LETTER CXCIX.</a> TO GENERAL + WASHINGTON, May 10, 1780 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0201"> LETTER CC.</a> TO + JAMES MADISON, May 11,1789 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0202"> LETTER + CCI.</a> TO MONSIEUR DE PONTIERE, May 17, 1789 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0203"> LETTER CCII.</a> TO MR. VAUGHAN, May + 17, 1789 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0204"> LETTER CCIII.</a> TO + THOMAS PAINE, May 19,1789 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0205"> LETTER + CCIV.</a> TO MONSIEUR DE ST. ETIENNE, June 3, 1789 <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2H_4_0206"> LETTER CCV.</a> TO THE MARQUIS DE + LA FAYETTE, June 12, 1789 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0207"> LETTER + CCVI.</a> TO JOHN JAY, June 17, 1789 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0208"> LETTER CCVII.</a> TO JAMES MADISON, + June 18, 1789 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0209"> LETTER CCVIII.</a> TO + JOHN JAY, June 24,1789 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0210"> LETTER CCIX.</a> TO + JOHN JAY, June 29, 1789 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0211"> LETTER CCX.</a> TO + THE MARQUIS DE LA FAYETTE, July 6, 1789 <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2H_4_0212"> LETTER CCXI.</a> TO THE MARQUIS DE LA + FAYETTE, July 7,1789 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0213"> LETTER CCXII.</a> TO + MR. NECKER, July 8, 1789 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0214"> LETTER + CCXIII.</a> TO THE COUNT DE MONTMORIN, July 8, 1789 <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2H_4_0215"> LETTER CCXIV.</a> TO THE MARQUIS DE + LA FAYETTE, July 9, 1789 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0216"> LETTER + CCXV.</a> TO THE MARQUIS DE LA FAYETTE, July 10, 1789 <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2H_4_0217"> LETTER CCXVI.</a> TO THOMAS PAINE, + July 11, 1789 <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <a name="linkillustrations" id="linkillustrations"></a><br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + List of Illustrations + </h2> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkimage-0001"> Book Spines, 1829 Set of Jefferson Papers + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkimage-0002"> Steel Engraving by Longacre from Painting of + G. Stuart </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkimage-0003"> Titlepage of Volume Two (of Four) </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkimage-0004"> Greek Phrase Page216 </a> + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2H_4_0001" id="link2H_4_0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER I.—TO RICHARD HENRY LEE, April 22, 1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO RICHARD HENRY LEE. + </p> + <p> + London, April 22, 1786. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + In your letter of October the 29th, you desired me to send you one of the + new lamps. I tried at every probable place in Paris, and could not get a + tolerable one. I have been glad of it since I came here, as I find them + much better made here. I now deliver one, with this letter, into the hands + of Mr. Fulwar Skipwith, a merchant from Virginia, settled here, who + promises to send it to you, with one for Mr. C. Thomson. Of this be + pleased to accept, from me. It is now found, that they may be used with + almost any oil. + </p> + <p> + I expect to leave this place in about three days. Our public letters, + joint and separate, will inform you what has been done, and what could not + be done here. With respect to a commercial treaty with this country, be + assured, that this government not only has it not in contemplation at + present to make any, but that they do not conceive that any circumstances + will arise, which shall render it expedient for them to have any political + connection with us. They think we shall be glad of their commerce on their + own terms. There is no party in our favor here, either in power or out of + power. Even the opposition concur with the ministry and the nation in + this. I can scarcely consider as a party, the Marquis of Lansdowne, and a + half dozen characters about him, such as Dr. Price, &c. who are + impressed with the utility of a friendly connection with us. The former + does not venture this sentiment in parliament, and the latter are not in + situations to be heard. The Marquis of Lansdowne spoke to me + affectionately of your brother, Doctor Lee, and desired his respects to + him, which I beg leave to communicate through you. Were he to come into + the ministry (of which there is not the most distant prospect), he must + adopt the King’s system, or go out again, as he did before, for daring to + depart from it. When we see, that through all the changes of ministry, + which have taken place during the present reign, there has never been a + change of system with respect to America, we cannot reasonably doubt, that + this is the system of the King himself. His obstinacy of character we + know; his hostility we have known, and it is embittered by ill success. If + ever this nation, during his life, enter into arrangements with us, it + must be in consequence of events, of which they do not at present see a + possibility. The object of the present ministry is to buoy up the nation + with flattering calculations of their present prosperity, and to make them + believe they are better without us than with us. This they seriously + believe; for what is it men cannot be made to believe? I dined the other + day in a company of the ministerial party. A General Clark, a Scotchman + and ministerialist, sat next to me. He introduced the subject of American + affairs, and in the course of the conversation told me, that were America + to petition parliament to be again received on their former footing, the + petition would be very generally rejected. He was serious in this, and I + think it was the sentiment of the company, and is the sentiment perhaps of + the nation. In this they are wise, but for a foolish reason. They think + they lost more by suffering us to participate of their commercial + privileges, at home and abroad, than they lose by our political severance. + The true reason, however, why such an application should be rejected, is, + that in a very short time we should oblige them to add another hundred + millions to their debt, in unsuccessful attempts to retain the subjection + offered to them. They are at present in a frenzy, and will not be + recovered from it, till they shall have leaped the precipice they are now + so boldly advancing to. Writing from England, I write you nothing but + English news. The continent, at present, furnishes nothing interesting. I + shall hope the favor of your letters, at times. The proceedings and views + of Congress and of the Assemblies, the opinions and dispositions of our + people in general, which, in governments like ours, must be the foundation + of measures, will always be interesting to me, as will whatever respects + your own health and happiness; being with great esteem, + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, your most obedient + </p> + <p> + and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0002" id="link2H_4_0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER II.—TO CHARLES THOMSON, April 22, 1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO CHARLES THOMSON. + </p> + <p> + London, April 22, 1786. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + In one of your former letters, you expressed a wish to have one of the + newly invented lamps. I find them made here much better than at Paris, and + take the liberty of asking your acceptance of one, which will accompany + this letter. It is now found, that any tolerable oil may be used in them. + The spermaceti oil is best, of the cheap kinds. + </p> + <p> + I could write you volumes on the improvements which I find made, and + making here, in the arts. One deserves particular notice, because it is + simple, great, and likely to have extensive consequences. It is the + application of steam, as an agent for working grist-mills. I have visited + the one lately made here. It was at that time turning eight pair of + stones. It consumes one hundred bushels of coal a day. It is proposed to + put up thirty pair of stones. I do not know whether the quantity of fuel + is to be increased. I hear you are applying the same agent in America to + navigate boats, and I have little doubt, but that it will be applied + generally to machines, so as to supersede the use of water ponds, and of + course to lay open all the streams for navigation. We know, that steam is + one of the most powerful engines we can employ; and in America fuel is + abundant. I find no new publication here worth sending to you. I shall set + out for Paris within three or four days. Our public letters will inform + you of our public proceedings here. + </p> + <p> + I am, with sincere esteem, Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0003" id="link2H_4_0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER III.—TO JOHN JAY, April 23, 1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + London, April 23, 1786. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + In my letter of March the 12th, I had the honor of explaining to you the + motives which had brought me to this place. A joint letter from Mr. Adams + and myself, sent by the last packet, informed you of the result of our + conferences with the Tripoline minister. The conferences with the minister + of Portugal have, been drawn to a greater length than I expected. However, + every thing is now agreed, and the treaty will be ready for signature the + day after to-morrow. I shall set out for Paris the same day. With this + country nothing is done: and that nothing is intended to be done, on their + part, admits not the smallest doubt. The nation is against any change of + measures: the ministers are against it; some from principle, others from + subserviency: and the King, more than all men, is against it. If we take a + retrospect to the beginning of the present reign, we observe, that amidst + all the changes of ministry, no change of measures with respect to America + ever took place; excepting only at the moment of the peace; and the + minister of that moment was immediately removed. Judging of the future by + the past, I do not expect a change of disposition during the present + reign, which bids fair to be a long one, as the King is healthy and + temperate. That he is persevering, we know. If he ever changes his plan, + it will be in consequence of events, which, at present, neither himself + nor his ministers place among those which are probable. Even the + opposition dare not open their lips in favor of a connection with us, so + unpopular would be the topic. It is not, that they think our commerce + unimportant to them. I find that the merchants here set sufficient value + on it. But they are sure of keeping it on their own terms. No better proof + can be shown of the security in which the ministers think themselves on + this head, than that they have not thought it worth while to give us a + conference on the subject, though, on my arrival, we exhibited to them our + commission, observed to them that it would expire on the 12th of the next + month, and that I had come over on purpose to see if any arrangements + could be made before that time. Of two months which then remained, six + weeks have elapsed without one scrip of a pen, or one word from a + minister, except a vague proposition at an accidental meeting. We availed + ourselves even of that, to make another essay to extort some sort of + declaration from the court. But their silence is invincible. But of all + this, as well as of the proceedings in the negotiation with Portugal, + information will be given you by a joint letter from Mr. Adams and myself. + The moment is certainly arrived, when, the plan of this court being out of + all doubt, Congress and the States may decide what their own measures + should be. + </p> + <p> + The Marquis of Lansdowne spoke of you in very friendly terms, and desired + me to present his respects to you, in the first letter I should write. He + is thoroughly sensible of the folly of the present measures of this + country, as are a few other characters about him. Dr. Price is among + these, and is particularly disturbed at the present prospect. He + acknowledges, however, that all change is desperate: which weighs the + more, as he is intimate with Mr. Pitt. This small band of friends, + favorable as it is, does not pretend to say one word in public on our + subject. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the highest esteem and respect, + </p> + <p> + Sir, your most obedient + </p> + <p> + and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0004" id="link2H_4_0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER IV.—TO JOHN JAY, April 23, 1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + London, April 23, 1786. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + In another letter of this day, I stated to you what had passed with public + characters since my arrival here. Conversations with private individuals, + I thought it best not to mingle with the contents of that letter. Yet, as + some have taken place, which relate to matters within our instructions, + and with persons whose opinions deserve to have some weight, I will take + the liberty of stating them. In a conversation with an ancient and + respectable merchant of this place, such a view of the true state of the + commercial connections of America and Great Britain was presented to him, + as induced him to acknowledge they had been mistaken in their opinions, + and to ask, that Mr. Adams and myself would permit the chairman of the + committee of American merchants to call on us. He observed, that the same + person happened to be also chairman of the committee of the whole body of + British merchants; and that such was the respect paid to his person and + office, that we might consider what came from him, as coming from the + committees themselves. He called on us at an appointed hour. He was a Mr. + Duncan Campbell, formerly much concerned in the American trade. We entered + on the subject of the non-execution of the late treaty of peace, alleged + on both sides. We observed, that the refusal to deliver the western posts, + and the withdrawing American property, contrary to express stipulation, + having preceded what they considered as breaches on our part, were to be + considered as the causes of our proceedings. The obstructions thrown by + our legislatures in the way of the recovery of their debts, were insisted + on by him. We observed to him, that the great amount of the debt from + America to Great Britain, and the little circulating coin in the formeer + country, rendered an immediate payment impossible; that time was + necessary; that we had been authorized to enter into explanatory + arrangements on this subject; that we had made overtures for the purpose, + which had not been attended to, and that the States had, therefore, been + obliged to modify the article for themselves. He acknowledged the + impossibility of immediate payment, the propriety of an explanatory + convention, and said, that they were disposed to allow a reasonable time. + We mentioned the term of five years, including the present; but that + judgments might be allowed immediately, only dividing the execution into + equal and annual parts, so that the last should be levied by the close of + the year 1790. This seemed to be quite agreeable to him, and to be as + short a term as would be insisted on by them. Proceeding to the sum to be + demanded, we agreed that the principal, with the interest incurring before + and after the war, should be paid; but as to that incurring during the + war, we differed from him. He urged its justice with respect to + themselves, who had laid out of the use of their money during that period. + This was his only topic. We opposed to it all those which circumstances, + both public and private, gave rise to. He appeared to feel their weight, + but said the renunciation of this interest was a bitter pill, and such a + one as the merchants here could not swallow. He wished, that no + declaration should be made as to this article: but we observed, that if we + entered into explanatory declarations of the points unfavorable to us, we + should expect, as a consideration for this, corresponding declarations on + the parts in our favor. In fact, we supposed his view was to leave this + part of the interest to stand on the general expressions of the treaty, + that they might avail themselves, in individual cases, of the favorable + dispositions of debtors or of juries. We proceeded to the necessity of + arrangements of our future commerce, were it only as a means of enabling + our country to pay its debts. We suggested, that they had been contracted + while certain modes of remittance had existed here, which had been an + inducement to us to contract these debts. He said he was not authorized to + speak on the subject of the future commerce. He appeared really and + feelingly anxious, that arrangements should be stipulated as to the + payment of the old debts, said he would proceed in that moment to Lord + Caermarthen’s, and discuss the subject with him, and that we might expect + to hear from him. He took leave, and we have never since heard from him or + any other person on the subject. Congress will judge how far these + conversations should influence their future proceedings, or those of the + States. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with the highest respect and esteem, Sir, your + most obedient, humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0005" id="link2H_4_0005"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER V.—TO JAMES MADISON, April 25, 1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO JAMES MADISON. + </p> + <p> + London, April 25, 1786. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Some of the objects of the joint commission, with which we were honored by + Congress, called me to this place about six weeks ago. To-morrow I set out + on my return to Paris. With this nation nothing is done; and it is now + decided, that they intend to do nothing with us. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + I wrote you, in a former letter, on the subject of a Mr. Paradise, who + owns an estate in Virginia in right of his wife, and who has a + considerable sum due to him in our loan office. Since I came here, I have + had opportunities of knowing his extreme personal worth, and his losses by + the late war. He is, from principle, a pure republican, while his father + was as warm a tory. His attachment to the American cause, and his candid + warmth, brought him sometimes into altercations on the subject with his + father, and some persons interested in their variance, artfully brought up + this subject of conversation whenever they met. It produced a neglect in + the father. He had already settled on him a sum of money in the funds: but + would do no more, and probably would have undone that, if he could. When + remittances from Virginia were forbidden, the profits of the Virginia + estate were carried into our loan office. Paradise was then obliged to + begin to eat his capital in England: from that, to part with conveniences, + and to run in debt. His situation is now distressing; and would be + completely relieved, could he receive what is due to him from our State. + He is coming over to settle there. His wife and family will follow him. I + never ask unjust preferences for any body. But if, by any just means, he + can be helped to his money, I own I should be much gratified. The goodness + of his heart, his kindness to Americans before, during, and since the war, + the purity of his political and moral character, interest me in the events + impending over him, and which will infallibly be ruinous, if he fails to + receive his money. I ask of you, on his behalf, that in pursuing the path + of right, you will become active for him, instead of being merely + quiescent, as you might be, were his merit and his misfortunes unknown to + you. + </p> + <p> + I have put into the hands of Mr. Fulwar Skipwith for you, a packet + containing some catalogues, which he will forward. I am, with very sincere + esteem, Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0006" id="link2H_4_0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER VI.—TO THE COUNT DE VERGENNES, May 3, 1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO THE COUNT DE VERGENNES. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 3, 1786. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + After begging leave to present my respects to your Excellency, on my + return to this place, I take the liberty of offering to your attention + some papers, which I found on my arrival here, written by sundry merchants + of L’Orient and others, some of whom are citizens of the United States, + and all of them concerned in the trade between the two countries. This has + been carried on by an exchange of the manufactures and produce of this + country, for the produce of that, and principally for tobacco, which, + though, on its arrival here, confined to a single purchaser, has been + received equally from all sellers. In confidence of a continuance of this + practice, the merchants of both countries were carrying on their commerce + of exchange. A late contract by the Farm has, in a great measure, fixed in + a single mercantile house the supplies of tobacco wanted for this country. + This arrangement found the established merchants with some tobacco on + hand, some on the seas coming to them, and more still due. By the papers + now enclosed, it seems, that there are six thousand four hundred and eight + hogsheads in the single port of L’Orient. Whether government may + interfere, as to articles furnished by the merchants after they had notice + of the contract before mentioned, must depend on principles of policy. But + those of justice seem to urge, that, for commodities furnished before such + notice, they should be so far protected, as that they may wind up, without + loss, the transactions in which the new arrangement found them actually + engaged. Your Excellency is the best judge, how far it may be consistent + with the rules of government, to interfere for their relief, and with you, + therefore, I beg leave entirely to rest their interests. + </p> + <p> + Information lately received, relative to the Barbary States, has + suggested, that it might be expedient, and perhaps necessary for us, to + pave the way to arrangements with them, by a previous application to the + Ottoman Porte. Your Excellency’s intimate acquaintance with this subject + would render your advice to us equally valuable and desirable. If you + would be pleased to permit me to wait on you, any day or hour which shall + be most convenient to yourself, I should be much gratified by a little + conversation with you on this subject. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with great respect, your Excellency’s most + obedient + </p> + <p> + and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0007" id="link2H_4_0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER VII.—TO JOHN PAGE, May 4, 1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN PAGE. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 4, 1786. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Your two favors of March the 15th and August the 23, 1785, by Monsieur de + la Croix, came to hand on the 15th of November. His return gives me an + opportunity of sending you a copy of the Nautical Almanacs for 1786, 7, 8, + 9. There is no late and interesting publication here, or I would send it + by the same conveyance. With these almanacs, I pack a copy of some Notes I + wrote for Monsieur de Marbois, in the year 1781, of which I had a few + printed here. They were written in haste, and for his private inspection. + A few friends having asked copies, I found it cheaper to print than to + write them. They will offer nothing new to you, not even as an oblation of + my friendship for you, which is as old almost as we are ourselves. Mazzei + brought me your favor of April the 27th. I thank you much for your + communications. Nothing can be more grateful at such a distance. It is + unfortunate, that most people think the occurrences passing daily under + their eyes, are either known to all the world, or not worth being known. + They therefore do not give them place in their letters. I hope you will be + so good as to continue your friendly information. The proceedings of our + public bodies, the progress of the public mind on interesting questions, + the casualties which happen among our private friends, and whatever is + interesting to yourself and family, will always be anxiously received by + me. There is one circumstance in the work you were concerned in, which has + not yet come to my knowledge; to wit, How far westward from Fort Pitt, + does the western boundary of Pennsylvania pass, and where does it strike + the Ohio? The proposition you mention from Mr. Anderson, on the purchase + of tobacco, I would have made use of, but that I have engaged the abuses + of the tobacco trade on a more general scale. I confess their redress is + by no means certain; but till I see all hope of removing the evil by the + roots desperate, I cannot propose to prune its branches. + </p> + <p> + I returned but three or four days ago, from a two months’ trip to England. + I traversed that country much, and own, both town and country fell short + of my expectations. Comparing it with this, I found a much greater + proportion of barrens, a soil, in other parts, not naturally so good as + this, not better cultivated, but better manured, and therefore more + productive. This proceeds from the practice of long leases there, and + short ones here. The laboring people here, are poorer than in England. + They pay about one half their produce in rent; the English, in general, + about a third. The gardening, in that country, is the article in which it + surpasses all the earth. I mean their pleasure gardening. This, indeed, + went far beyond my ideas. The city of London, though handsomer than Paris, + is not so handsome as Philadelphia. Their architecture is in the most + wretched style I ever saw, not meaning to except America, where it is bad, + nor even Virginia, where it is worse than in any other part of America + which I have seen. The mechanical arts in London are carried to a + wonderful perfection. But of these I need not speak, because, of them my + countrymen have unfortunately too many samples before their eyes. I + consider the extravagance which has seized them, as a more baneful evil + than toryism was during the war. It is the more so, as the example is set + by the best and most amiable characters among us. Would a missionary + appear, who would make frugality the basis of his religious system, and go + through the land, preaching it up as the only road to salvation, I would + join his school, though not generally disposed to seek my religion out of + the dictates of my own reason, and feelings of my own heart. These things + have been more deeply impressed on my mind, by what I have heard and seen + in England. That nation hate us, their ministers hate us, and their King, + more than all other men. They have the impudence to avow this, though they + acknowledge our trade important to them. But they think, we cannot prevent + our countrymen from bringing that into their laps. A conviction of this + determines them to make no terms of commerce with us. They say, they will + pocket our carrying trade as well as their own. Our overtures of + commercial arrangements have been treated with a derision, which shows + their firm persuasion, that we shall never unite to suppress their + commerce, or even to impede it. I think their hostility towards us is much + more deeply rooted at present, than during the war. In the arts, the most + striking thing I saw there, new, was the application of the principle of + the steam-engine to grist-mills. I saw eight pair of stones which are + worked by steam, and there are to be set up thirty pair in the same house. + A hundred bushels of coal, a day, are consumed at present. I do not know + in what proportion the consumption will be increased by the additional + gear. + </p> + <p> + Be so good as to present my respects to Mrs. Page and your family, to W. + Lewis, F. Willis, and their families, and to accept yourself assurances of + the sincere regard, with which I am, Dear Sir, your affectionate friend + and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0008" id="link2H_4_0008"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER VIII.—TO WILLIAM CARMICHAEL + </h2> + <p> + TO WILLIAM CARMICHAEL. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 5, 1786. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + A visit of two months to England has been the cause of your not hearing + from me during that period. Your letters of February the 3rd, to Mr. Adams + and myself, and of February the 4th, to me, had come to hand before my + departure. While I was in London, Mr. Adams received the letters giving + information of Mr. Lambe’s arrival at Algiers. In London, we had + conferences with a Tripoline ambassador, now at that court, named + Abdrahaman. He asked us thirty thousand guineas for a peace with his + court, and as much for Tunis, for which he said he could answer. What we + were authorized to offer, being to this, but as a drop to a bucket, our + conferences were repeated, only for the purpose of obtaining information. + If the demands of Algiers and Morocco should be proportioned to this, + according to their superior power, it is easy to foresee that the United + States will not buy a peace with money. What principally led me to England + was, the information that the Chevalier del Pinto, Portuguese minister at + that court, had received full powers to treat with us. I accordingly went + there, and, in the course of six weeks, we arranged a commercial treaty + between our two countries. His powers were only to negotiate, not to sign. + And as I could not wait, Mr. Adams and myself signed, and the Chevalier + del Pinto expected daily the arrival of powers to do the same. The footing + on which each has placed the other, is that of the most favored nation. We + wished much to have had some privileges in their American possessions: but + this was not to be effected. The right to import flour into Portugal, + though not conceded by the treaty, we are not without hopes of obtaining. + </p> + <p> + My journey furnished us occasion to renew our overtures to the court of + London; which it was the more important to do, as our powers to that court + were to expire on the 12th of this month. These overtures were not + attended to, and our commission expiring, we made our final report to + Congress; and I suppose this the last offer of friendship, which will ever + be made on our part. The treaty of peace being unexecuted on either part, + in important points, each will now take their own measures for obtaining + execution. I think the King, ministers, and nation are more bitterly + hostile to us at present, than at any period of the late war. A like + disposition on our part, has been rising for some time. In what events + these things will end, we cannot foresee. Our countrymen are eager in + their passions and enterprise, and not disposed to calculate their + interests against these. Our enemies (for such they are, in fact) have for + twelve years past, followed but one uniform rule, that of doing exactly + the contrary of what reason points out. Having early, during our contest, + observed this in the British conduct, I governed myself by it, in all + prognostications of their measures; and I can say, with truth, it never + failed me but in the circumstance of their making peace with us. I have no + letters from America of later date than the new year. Mr. Adams had, to + the beginning of February. I am in hopes our letters will give a new spur + to the proposition, for investing Congress with the regulation of our + commerce. + </p> + <p> + This will be handed you by a Baron Waltersdorf, a Danish gentleman, whom, + if you did not already know, I should take the liberty of recommending to + you. You were so kind as to write me, that you would forward me a + particular map, which has not come to hand. + </p> + <p> + I beg you to be assured of the respect and esteem, with which I have the + honor to be, Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + your most obedient + </p> + <p> + and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0009" id="link2H_4_0009"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER IX.—TO MR. DUMAS, May 6, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO MR. DUMAS. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 6, 1789. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + Having been absent in England, for some time past, your favors of February + the 27th, March the 28th, and April the 11th, have not been acknowledged + so soon as they should have been. I am obliged to you, for assisting to + make me known to the Rhingrave de Salm and the Marquis de la Coste, whose + reputations render an acquaintance with them desirable. I have not yet + seen either: but expect that honor from the Rhingrave very soon. Your + letters to Mr. Jay and Mr. Van Berkel, received in my absence, will be + forwarded by a gentleman who leaves this place for New York, within a few + days. I sent the treaty with Prussia by a gentleman who sailed from Havre, + the 11th of November. The arrival of that vessel in America is not yet + known here. Though the time is not long enough to produce despair, it is + sufficiently so to give inquietude lest it should be lost. This would be a + cause of much concern to me: I beg the favor of you to mention this + circumstance to the Baron de Thulemeyer, as an apology for his not hearing + from us. The last advices from America bring us nothing interesting. A + principal object of my journey to London was, to enter into commercial + arrangements with Portugal. This has been done almost in the precise terms + of those of Prussia. The English are still our enemies. The spirit + existing there, and rising in America, has a very lowering aspect. To what + events it may give birth, I cannot foresee. We are young, and can survive + them; but their rotten machine must crush under the trial. The animosities + of sovereigns are temporary, and may be allayed: but those which seize the + whole body of a people, and of a people, too, who dictate their own + measures, produce calamities of long duration. I shall not wonder to see + the scenes of ancient Rome and Carthage renewed in our day; and if not + pursued to the same issue, it may be, because the republic of modern + powers will not permit the extinction of any one of its members. Peace and + friendship with all mankind is our wisest policy: and I wish we may be + permitted to pursue it. But the temper and folly of our enemies may not + leave this in our choice. I am happy in our prospect of friendship with + the most estimable powers of Europe, and particularly with those of the + confederacy, of which yours is. That your present crisis may have a happy + issue, is the prayer and wish of him, who has the honor to be, with great + respect and esteem, Sir, your most obedient humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0010" id="link2H_4_0010"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER X.—TO WILLIAM DRAYTON, May 6, 1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO WILLIAM DRAYTON. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 6, 1786. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + Your favor of November the 23rd came duly to hand. A call to England, soon + after its receipt, has prevented my acknowledging it so soon as I should + have done. I am very sensible of the honor done me by the South Carolina + society for promoting and improving agriculture and other rural concerns, + when they were pleased to elect me to be of their body: and I beg leave, + through you, Sir, to convey to them my grateful thanks for this favor. + They will find in me, indeed, but a very unprofitable servant. At present, + particularly, my situation is unfavorable to the desire I feel, of + promoting their views. However, I shall certainly avail myself of every + occasion, which shall occur of doing so. Perhaps I may render some + service, by forwarding to the society such new objects of culture, as may + be likely to succeed in the soil and climate of South Carolina. In an + infant country, as ours is, these experiments are important. We are + probably far from possessing, as yet, all the articles of culture for + which nature has fitted our country. To find out these, will require + abundance of unsuccessful experiments. But if in a multitude of these, we + make one useful acquisition, it repays our trouble. Perhaps it is the + peculiar duty of associated bodies, to undertake these experiments. Under + this sense of the views of the society, and with so little opportunity of + being otherwise useful to them, I shall be attentive to procure for them + the seeds of such plants, as they will be so good as to point out to me, + or as shall occur to myself as worthy their notice. I send at present, by + Mr. McQueen, some seeds of a grass, found very useful in the southern + parts of Europe, and particularly, and almost solely, cultivated in Malta. + It is called by the names of Sulla, and Spanish St. Foin, and is the <i>Hedysarum + coronarium</i> of Linnaeus. It is usually sown early in autumn. I shall + receive a supply of fresher seed this fall, which I will also do myself + the honor of forwarding to you. I expect, in the same season, from the + south of France, some acorns of the cork oak, which I propose for your + society, as I am persuaded they will succeed with you. I observed it to + grow in England, without shelter; not well indeed; but so as to give hopes + that it would do well with you. I shall consider myself as always honored + by the commands of the society, whenever they shall find it convenient to + make use of me, and beg you to be assured, personally, of the sentiments + of respect and esteem, with which I have the honor to be, Sir, your most + obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0011" id="link2H_4_0011"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XI.—TO W. T. FRANKLIN, May 7, 1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO W. T. FRANKLIN. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 7, 1786. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + On my return from a two months’ visit to England, I found here your favor + of January the 18th. This contains the latest intelligence I have from + America. Your effects not being then arrived, gives me anxiety for them, + as I think they went in a vessel, which sailed from Havre the 11th of + November. In this vessel, went also the two Mr. Fitzhughs of Virginia, + with the Prussian treaty, our papers relative to the Barbary States, with + the despatches for Congress, and letters which I had been writing to other + persons in America for six weeks preceding their departure. I am obliged + to you for the information as to Dr. Franklin’s health, in which I feel a + great interest. I concur in opinion with you, that in the present factious + division of your State, an angel from heaven could do no good. I have been + sorry, therefore, from the beginning, to see such time as Dr. Franklin’s + wasted on so hopeless a business. You have formed a just opinion of + Monroe. He is a man whose soul might be turned wrong side outwards, + without discovering a blemish to the world. I wish with all my heart, + Congress may call you into the diplomatic line, as that seems to have + attracted your own desires. It is not one in which you can do any thing + more, than pass the present hour agreeably, without any prospect to future + provision. Perhaps the arrangements with Portugal, by adding to the number + of those appointments, may give Congress an opportunity of doing justice + to your own, and to Dr. Franklin’s services. If my wishes could aid you, + you have them sincerely. My late return to this place scarcely enables me + to give you any of its news. I have not yet called on M. La Veillard, or + seen any of your acquaintances. The marriage of the ambassador of Sweden + with Miss Necker, you have heard of. Houdon is about taking a wife also. + His bust of the General has arrived, and meets the approbation of those + who know the original. Europe enjoys a perfect calm, at present. Perhaps + it may be disturbed by the death of the King of Prussia, which is + constantly expected. As yet, we have no information from the Barbary + States, which may enable us to prognosticate the success of our endeavors + to effect a peace in that quarter. Present me respectfully and + affectionately to Dr. Franklin, and accept assurances of the esteem, with + which I am, Dear Sir, your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0012" id="link2H_4_0012"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XII.—TO ELBRIDGE GERRY, May 7, 1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO ELBRIDGE GERRY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 7, 1786. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + My last to you was of the 11th of October. Soon after that, your favor of + the 12th of September came to hand. My acknowledgment of this is made + later than it should have been, by my trip to England. Your long silence I + ascribe to a more pleasing cause, that of devoting your spare time to one + more capable of filling it with happiness, and to whom, as well as to + yourself, I wish all those precious blessings which this change of + condition is calculated to give you. + </p> + <p> + My public letters to Mr. Jay will have apprized you of my journey to + England, and of its motives; and the joint letters of Mr. Adams and + myself, of its effects. With respect to Portugal, it produced + arrangements; with respect to England and Barbary, only information. I am + quite at a loss what you will do with England. To leave her in possession + of our posts, seems inadmissible; and yet to take them, brings on a state + of things, for which we seem not to be in readiness. Perhaps a total + suppression of her trade, or an exclusion of her vessels from the carriage + of our produce, may have some effect; but I believe not very great. Their + passions are too deeply and too universally engaged in opposition to us. + The ministry have found means to persuade the nation, that they are richer + than they were while we participated of their commercial privileges. We + should try to turn our trade into other channels. I am in hopes this + country will endeavor to give it more encouragement. But what will you do + with the piratical States? Buy a peace at their enormous price; force one; + or abandon the carriage into the Mediterranean to other powers? All these + measures are disagreeable. The decision rests with you. The Emperor is now + pressing a treaty with us. In a commercial view, I doubt whether it is + desirable: but in a political one, I believe it is. He is now undoubtedly + the second power in Europe, and on the death of the King of Prussia, he + becomes the first character. An alliance with him will give us + respectability in Europe, which we have occasion for. Besides, he will be + at the head of the second grand confederacy of Europe, and may at any time + serve us with the powers constituting that. I am pressed on so many hands + to recommend Dumas to the patronage of Congress, that I cannot avoid it. + Every body speaks well of him, and his zeal in our cause. Any thing done + for him will gratify this court, and the patriotic party in Holland, as + well as some distinguished individuals. I am induced, from my own + feelings, to recommend Colonel Humphreys to your care. He is sensible, + prudent, and honest, and may be very firmly relied on, in any office which + requires these talents. I pray you to accept assurance of the sincere + esteem and respect, with which I am, + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, your most obedient + </p> + <p> + and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0013" id="link2H_4_0013"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XIII.—TO JAMES ROSS, May 8, 1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO JAMES ROSS. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 8, 1786. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have duly received your favor of October the 22nd, and am much gratified + by the communications therein made. It has given me details, which do not + enter into the views of my ordinary correspondents, and which are very + entertaining. I experience great satisfaction at seeing my country proceed + to facilitate the intercommunications of its several parts, by opening + rivers, canals, and roads. How much more rational is this disposal of + public money, than that of waging war. + </p> + <p> + Before the receipt of your letter, Morris’s contract for sixty thousand + hogsheads of tobacco was concluded with the Farmers General. I have been + for some time occupied in endeavoring to destroy the root of the evils, + which the tobacco trade encounters in this country, by making the + ministers sensible, that merchants will not bring a commodity to a market, + where but one person is allowed to buy it; and that so long as that single + purchaser is obliged to go to foreign markets for it, he must pay for it + in coin, and not in commodities. These truths have made their way to the + minds of the ministry, insomuch, as to have delayed the execution of the + new lease of the Farms, six months. It is renewed, however, for three + years, but so as not to render impossible a reformation of this great + evil. They are sensible of the evil, but it is so interwoven with their + fiscal system, that they find it hazardous to disentangle. The temporary + distress, too, of the revenue, they are not prepared to meet. My hopes, + therefore, are weak, though not quite desperate. When they become so, it + will remain to look about for the best palliative this monopoly can bear. + My present idea is, that it will be found in a prohibition to the Farmers + General, to purchase tobacco any where but in France. You will perceive by + this, that my object is to strengthen the connection between this country + and my own in all useful points. I am of opinion, that twenty-three + thousand hogsheads of tobacco, the annual consumption of this country, do + not exceed the amount of those commodities, which it is more advantageous + to us to buy here than in England, or elsewhere; and such a commerce would + powerfully reinforce the motives for a friendship from this country + towards ours. This friendship we ought to cultivate closely, considering + the present dispositions of England towards us. + </p> + <p> + I am lately returned from a visit to that country. The spirit of hostility + to us has always existed in the mind of the King, but it has now extended + itself through the whole mass of the people, and the majority in the + public councils. In a country, where the voice of the people influences so + much the measures of administration, and where it coincides with the + private temper of the King, there is no pronouncing on future events. It + is true, they have nothing to gain, and much to lose, by a war with us. + But interest is not the strongest passion in the human breast. There are + difficult points, too, still unsettled between us. They have not withdrawn + their armies out of our country, nor given satisfaction for the property + they brought off. On our part, we have not paid our debts, and it will + take time to pay them. In conferences with some distinguished mercantile + characters, I found them sensible of the impossibility of our paying these + debts at once, and that an endeavor to force universal and immediate + payment, would render debts desperate, which are good in themselves. I + think we should not have differed in the term necessary. We differed + essentially in the article of interest. For while the principal, and + interest preceding and subsequent to the war, seem justly due from us, + that which accrued during the war does not. Interest is a compensation for + the use of money. Their money, in our hands, was in the form of lands and + negroes. Tobacco, the produce of these lands and negroes (or, as I may + call it, the interest for them), being almost impossible of conveyance to + the markets of consumption, because taken by themselves in its way there, + sold during the war at five or six shillings the hundred. This did not pay + taxes, and for tools, and other plantation charges. A man who should have + attempted to remit to his creditor tobacco, for either principal or + interest, must have remitted it three times before one cargo would have + arrived safe: and this from the depredations of their own nation, and + often of the creditor himself; for some of the merchants entered deeply + into the privateering business. The individuals who did not, say they have + lost this interest: the debtor replies, that he has not gained it, and + that it is a case where, a loss having been incurred, every one tries to + shift it from himself. The known bias of the human mind from motives of + interest should lessen the confidence of each party in the justice of + their reasoning: but it is difficult to say, which of them should make the + sacrifice, both of reason and interest. Our conferences were intended as + preparatory to some arrangement. It is uncertain how far we should have + been able to accommodate our opinions. But the absolute aversion of the + government to enter into any arrangement prevented the object from being + pursued. Each country is left to do justice to itself and to the other, + according to its own ideas as to what is past; and to scramble for the + future as well as they can: to regulate their commerce by duties and + prohibitions, and perhaps by cannons and mortars; in which event, we must + abandon the ocean, where we are weak, leaving to neutral nations the + carriage of our commodities; and measure with them on land, where they + alone can lose. Farewell, then, all our useful improvements of canals and + roads, reformations of laws, and other rational employments. I really + doubt, whether there is temper enough, on either side, to prevent this + issue of our present hatred. Europe is, at this moment, without the + appearance of a cloud. The death of the King of Prussia, daily expected, + may raise one. My paper admonishes me, that, after asking a continuance of + your favors, it is time for me to conclude with assurances of the esteem + with which I am, + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0014" id="link2H_4_0014"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XIV.—TO T. PLEASANTS, May 8,1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO T. PLEASANTS. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 8,1786. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + At the time of the receipt of your favor of October the 24th, the contract + between the Farmers General and Mr. Morris, for tobacco, was concluded, + and in a course of execution. There was no room, therefore, to offer the + proposals which accompanied your letter. I was, moreover, engaged in + endeavors to have the monopoly, in the purchase of this article, in this + country, suppressed. My hopes on that subject are not desperate, but + neither are they flattering. I consider it as the most effectual means of + procuring the full value of our produce, of diverting our demands for + manufactures from Great Britain to this country, to a certain amount, and + of thus producing some equilibrium in our commerce, which at present lies + all in the British scale. It would cement an union with our friends, and + lessen the torrent of wealth which we are pouring into the laps of our + enemies. For my part, I think that the trade with Great Britain is a + ruinous one to ourselves; and that nothing would be an inducement to + tolerate it, but a free commerce with their West Indies: and that this + being denied to us, we should put a stop to the losing branch. The + question is, whether they are right in their prognostications, that we + have neither resolution nor union enough for this. Every thing I hear from + my own country, fills me with despair as to their recovery from their + vassalage to Great Britain. Fashion and folly are plunging them deeper and + deeper into distress: and the legislators of the country becoming debtors + also, there seems no hope of applying the only possible remedy, that of an + immediate judgment and execution. We should try, whether the prodigal + might not be restrained from taking on credit the gewgaw held out to him + in one hand, by seeing the keys of a prison in the other. Be pleased to + present my respects to Mrs. Pleasants, and to be assured of the esteem + with which I am, + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0015" id="link2H_4_0015"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XV.—TO COLONEL MONROE, May 10,1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO COLONEL MONROE. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 10,1786. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + My last to you was of January the 27th. Since that, I have received yours + of January the 19th. Information from other quarters gives me reason to + suspect you have in negotiation a very important change in your situation. + You will carry into its execution all my wishes for your happiness. I hope + it will not detach you from a settlement in your own country. I had even + entertained hopes of your settling in my neighborhood: but these were + determined by your desiring a plan of a house for Richmond. However + reluctantly I relinquish this prospect, I shall not the less readily obey + your commands, by sending you a plan. Having been much engaged since my + return from England, in answering the letters and despatching other + business which had accumulated during my absence, and being still much + engaged, perhaps I may not be able to send the plan by this conveyance. If + I do not send it now, I will surely by the next conveyance after this. + Your <i>EncyclopĂ©die</i>, containing eighteen <i>livraisons</i>, went off + last night for Havre, from whence it will go in a vessel bound to New + York. It will be under the care of M. la Croix, a passenger, who, if he + does not find you in New York, will carry it to Virginia, and send it to + Richmond. Another copy, in a separate box, goes for Currie. I pay here all + charges to New York. What may occur afterwards, I desire him to ask either + of you or Currie, as either will pay for the other; or to draw on me for + them. + </p> + <p> + My letters to Mr. Jay will have informed you of the objects which carried + me to England: and that the principal one, the treaty with Portugal, has + been accomplished. Though we were unable to procure any special advantages + in that, yet we thought it of consequence to insure our trade against + those particular checks and discouragements, which it has heretofore met + with there. The information as to the Barbary States, which we obtained + from Abdrahaman the Tripoline ambassador, was also given to Mr. Jay. If it + be right, and the scale of proportion between those nations, which we had + settled, be also right, eight times the sum required by Tripoli will be + necessary to accomplish a peace with the whole; that is to say, about two + hundred and forty thousand guineas. The continuance of this peace will + depend on their idea of our power to enforce it, and on the life of the + particular Dey, or other head of the government, with whom it is + contracted. Congress will, no doubt, weigh these circumstances against the + expense and probable success of compelling a peace by arms. Count + d’Estaing having communicated to me verbally some information as to an + experiment formerly made by this country, I shall get him to put it into + writing, and I will forward it to Congress, as it may aid them in their + choice of measures. However, which plan is most eligible can only be known + to yourselves, who are on the spot, and have under your view all the + difficulties of both. There is a third measure, that of abandoning the + Mediterranean carriage to other nations. + </p> + <p> + With respect to England, no arrangements can be taken. The merchants were + certainly disposed to have consented to accommodation, as to the article + of debts. I was not certain, when I left England, that they would + relinquish the interest during the war. A letter received since, from the + first character among the American merchants in Scotland, satisfies me + they would have relinquished it, to insure the capital and residue of + interest. Would to heaven, all the States, therefore, would settle a + uniform plan. To open the courts to them, so that they might obtain + judgments; to divide the executions into so many equal annual instalments, + as that the last might be paid in the year 1790; to have the payments in + actual money; and to include the capital, and interest preceding and + subsequent to the war, would give satisfaction to the world, and to the + merchants in general. Since it is left for each nation to pursue their own + measures, in the execution of the late treaty, may not Congress, with + propriety, recommend a mode of executing that article respecting the + debts, and send it to each State to be passed into law? Whether England + gives up the posts or not, these debts must be paid, or our character + stained with infamy among all nations, and through all time. As to the + satisfaction for slaves carried off, it is a bagatelle, which, if not made + good before the last instalment becomes due, may be secured out of that. + </p> + <p> + I formerly communicated the overtures for a treaty, which had been made by + the imperial ambassador. The instructions from Congress being in their + favor, and Mr. Adams’s opinion also, I encouraged them. He expected his + full powers when I went to England. Yet I did not think, nor did Mr. + Adams, that this was of importance enough to weigh against the objects of + that journey. He received them soon after my departure, and communicated + it to me on my return, asking a copy of our propositions. I gave him one, + but observed, our commission had then but a few days to run. He desired I + should propose to Congress the giving new powers to go on with this, and + said, that, in the mean time, he would arrange with us the plan. In a + commercial view, no great good is to be gained by this. But in a political + one, it may be expedient. As the treaty would, of course, be in the terms + of those of Prussia and Portugal, it will give us but little additional + embarrassment, in any commercial regulations we may wish to establish. The + exceptions from these, which the other treaties will require, may take in + the treaty with the Emperor. I should be glad to communicate some answer, + as soon as Congress shall have made up their minds on it. My information + to Congress, on the subject of our commercial articles with this country, + has only come down to January the 27th. Whether I shall say any thing on + it, in my letter to Mr. Jay by this conveyance, depends on its not being + too early for an appointment I expect hourly from the Count de Vergennes, + to meet him on this and other subjects. My last information was, that the + lease was too far advanced to withdraw from it the article of tobacco, but + that a clause is inserted in it, empowering the King to discontinue it at + any time. A discontinuance is, therefore, the only remaining object, and + as even this cannot be effected till the expiration of the old lease, + which is about the end of the present year, I have wished only to stir the + subject, from time to time, so as to keep it alive. This idea led me into + a measure proposed by the Marquis de la Fayette, whose return from Berlin + found the matter at that point, to which my former report to Congress had + conducted it. I communicated to him what I had been engaged on, what were + my prospects, and my purpose of keeping the subject just open. He offered + his services with that zeal which commands them on every occasion + respecting America. He suggested to me the meeting two or three gentlemen, + well acquainted with this business. We met. They urged me to propose to + the Count de Vergennes, the appointing a committee to take the matter into + consideration. I told them, that decency would not permit me to point out + to the Count de Vergennes the mode by which he should conduct a + negotiation, but that I would press again the necessity of an arrangement, + if, whilst that should be operating on his mind, they would suggest the + appointment of a committee. The Marquis offered his services for this + purpose. The consequence was the appointment of a committee, and the + Marquis as a member of it. I communicated to him my papers. He collected + other lights wherever he could, and particularly from the gentlemen with + whom we had before concerted, and who had a good acquaintance with the + subject. The Marquis became our champion in the committee, and two of its + members, who were of the corps of Farmers General, entered the lists on + the other side. Each gave in memorials. The lease, indeed, was signed + while I was gone to England, but the discussions were, and still are + continued in the committee: from which we derive two advantages; 1. that + of showing, that the object is not to be relinquished; and 2. that of + enlightening government, as to its true interest. The Count de Vergennes + is absolutely for it; but it is not in his department. Calonne is his + friend, and in this instance his principle seems to be, <i>Amica veritas, + sed magis amicus Plato</i>. An additional hope is founded in the + expectation of a change of the minister of finance. The present one is + under the absolute control of the Farmers General. The committee’s views + have been somewhat different from mine. They despair of a suppression of + the Farm, and therefore wish to obtain palliatives, which would coincide + with the particular good of this country. I think, that so long as the + monopoly in the sale is kept up, it is of no consequence to us, how they + modify the pill for their own internal relief: but, on the contrary, the + worse it remains, the more necessary it will render a reformation. Any + palliative would take from us all those arguments and friends, that would + be satisfied with accommodation. The Marquis, though differing in opinion + from me on this point, has, however, adhered to my principle of absolute + liberty or nothing. In this condition is the matter at this moment. + Whether I say any thing on the subject to Mr. Jay, will depend on my + interview with the Count de Vergennes. I doubt whether that will furnish + any thing worth communicating, and whether it will be in time. I therefore + state thus much to you, that you may see the matter is not laid aside. + </p> + <p> + I must beg leave to recommend Colonel Humphreys to your acquaintance and + good offices. He is an excellent man, an able one, and in need of some + provision. Besides former applications to me in favor of Dumas, the + Rhingrave of Salm (the effective minister of the government of Holland, + while their two ambassadors here are ostensible), who is conducting secret + arrangements for them with this court, presses his interests on us. It is + evident the two governments make a point of it. You ask, why they do not + provide for him themselves. I am not able to answer the question, but by a + conjecture, that Dumas’s particular ambition prefers an appointment from + us. I know all the difficulty of this application, which Congress has to + encounter. I see the reasons against giving him the primary appointment at + that court, and the difficulty of his accommodating himself to a + subordinate one. Yet I think something must be done in it, to gratify this + court, of which we must be always asking favors. In these countries, + personal favors weigh more than public interest. The minister who has + asked a gratification for Dumas, has embarked his own feelings and + reputation in that demand. I do not think it was discreet, by any means. + But this reflection might perhaps aggravate a disappointment. I know not + really what you can do: but yet hope something will be done. Adieu, my + Dear Sir, and believe me to be + </p> + <p> + yours affectionately, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0016" id="link2H_4_0016"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XVI.—TO JOHN ADAMS, May 11, 1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN ADAMS. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 11, 1786. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I do myself the honor of enclosing to you, letters which came to hand last + night, from Mr. Lambe, Mr. Carmichael, and Mr. Barclay. By these you will + perceive, that our peace is not to be purchased at Algiers but at a price + far beyond our powers. What that would be, indeed, Mr. Lambe does not say, + nor probably does he know. But as he knew our ultimatum, we are to suppose + from his letter, that it would be a price infinitely beyond that. A + reference to Congress hereon seems to be necessary. Till that can be + obtained, Mr. Lambe must be idle at Algiers, Carthagena, or elsewhere. + Would he not be better employed in going to Congress? They would be able + to draw from him and Mr. Randall, the information necessary to determine + what they will do. And if they determine to negotiate, they can re-appoint + the same, or appoint a new negotiator, according to the opinion they shall + form on their examination. I suggest this to you as my first thoughts; an + ultimate opinion should not be formed till we see Mr. Randall, who may be + shortly expected. In the mean time, should an opportunity occur, favor me + with your ideas hereon that we may be maturing our opinions. I shall send + copies of these three letters to Mr. Jay, by the packet which sails from + L’Orient the first of the next month. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with great esteem, Dear Sir, your most obedient + and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0017" id="link2H_4_0017"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XVII.—TO LISTER ASQUITH, May 22, 1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO LISTER ASQUITH. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 22, 1786. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + When I left this place for England, I had no suspicion that any thing more + would be necessary on my part for your liberation. Being but lately + returned, I could not sooner acknowledge the receipt of your letters of + April the 21st and May the 1st. I this day write to M. Desbordes, to pay + the charges necessary for your enlargement, to furnish you with a guinea + apiece, and to take your draft on Mr. Grand for those sums, and the others + which he has furnished you at my request. This being a new case, I am + unable to say whether you will be held to repay this money. Congress will + decide on that, to whom I shall send a report of the case, and to whom you + should apply on your return to America, to know whether you are to repay + it or not. During the whole of this long transaction, I have never ceased + soliciting your discharge. The evidence furnished by the Farmers to the + ministers, impressed them with a belief that you were guilty. However, + they obtained a remission of all which the King could remit, which was + your condemnation to the galleys, and imprisonment, and the sum in which + you were fined. The confiscation belonged to the Farmers, and the expenses + of subsistence and of prosecution were theirs also, and so could not be + remitted by the King. I wish you to be assured of my sensibility for your + sufferings, and of my wishes to have obtained an earlier relief, had it + been possible. I shall be glad if you can have an immediate and safe + return to your own country, and there find your families well, and make + those who may be authorized to decide on your case sensible, that these + misfortunes have not been brought on you by any desire of yours, to + infringe the laws of the country in which you have suffered. I enclose + herewith your log-book and the other papers desired by you, and am, Sir, + </p> + <p> + your most obedient, humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0018" id="link2H_4_0018"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XVIII.—TO JOHN JAY, May 23, 1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 23, 1786. + </p> + <p> + Letters received both from Madrid and Algiers, while I was in London, + having suggested that treaties with the States of Barbary would be much + facilitated by a previous one with the Ottoman Porte, it was agreed + between Mr. Adams and myself, that on my return, I should consult on this + subject the Count de Vergennes, whose long residence at Constantinople + rendered him the best judge of its expediency. Various circumstances have + put it out of my power to consult him, till to-day. I stated to him the + difficulties we were likely to meet with at Algiers; and asked his + opinion, what would be the probable expense of a diplomatic mission to + Constantinople, and what its effect at Algiers. He said that the expense + would be very great, for that presents must be made at that court, and + every one would be gaping after them: and that it would not procure us a + peace at Algiers one penny the cheaper. He observed, that the Barbary + States acknowledged a sort of vassalage to the Porte, and availed + themselves of that relation, when any thing was to be gained by it; but + that whenever it subjected them to a demand from the Porte, they totally + disregarded it: that money was the sole agent at Algiers, except so far as + fear could be induced also. He cited the present example of Spain, which, + though having a treaty with the Porte would probably be obliged to buy a + peace at Algiers, at the expense of upwards of six millions of livres. I + told him, we had calculated from the demands and information of the + Tripoline ambassador, at London, that to make peace with the four Barbary + States would cost us between two and three hundred thousand guineas, if + bought with money. The sum did not seem to exceed his expectations. I + mentioned to him, that considering the uncertainty of a peace, when + bought, perhaps Congress might think it more eligible to establish a + cruise of frigates in the Mediterranean, and even to blockade Algiers. He + supposed it would require ten vessels, great and small. I observed to him + that Monsieur de Massiac had formerly done it with five: he said it was + true, but that vessels of relief would be necessary. I hinted to him that + I thought the English capable of administering aid to the Algerines. He + seemed to think it impossible, on account of the scandal it would bring + on. I asked him what had occasioned the blockade by Monsieur de Massiac: + he said, an infraction of their treaty by the Algerines. + </p> + <p> + I had a good deal of conversation with him, also, on the situation of + affairs between England and the United States: and particularly, on their + refusal to deliver up our posts. I observed to him, that the obstructions + thrown in the way of the recovery of their debts, were the effect, and not + the cause, as they pretended, of their refusal to deliver up the posts; + that the merchants interested in these debts, showed a great disposition + to make arrangements with us; that the article of time we could certainly + have settled, and probably that of the interest during the war: but that, + the minister showing no disposition to have these matters arranged, I + thought it a sufficient proof that this was not the true cause of their + retaining the posts. He concurred as to the justice of our requiring time + for the payment of our debts; said nothing which showed a difference of + opinion as to the article of interest, and seemed to believe fully, that + their object was to divert the channel of the fur-trade, before they + delivered up the posts, and expressed a strong sense of the importance of + that commerce to us. I told him I really could not foresee what would be + the event of this detention; that the situation of the British funds, and + the desire of their minister to begin to reduce the national debt, seemed + to indicate that they could not wish a war. He thought so, but that + neither were we in a condition to go to war. I told him, I was yet + uninformed what Congress proposed to do on this subject, but that we + should certainly always count on the good offices of France, and I was + sure that the offer of them would suffice to induce Great Britain to do us + justice. He said that surely we might always count on the friendship of + France. I added, that by the treaty of alliance, she was bound to guaranty + our limits to us, as they should be established at the moment of peace. He + said they were so, ‘<i>mais qu’il nous etoit nĂ©cessaire de les constater</i>.’ + I told him there was no question what our boundaries were; that the + English themselves admitted they were clear beyond all question. I feared, + however, to press this any further, lest a reciprocal question should be + put to me, and therefore diverted the conversation to another object. This + is a sketch only of a conference which was long. I have endeavored to give + the substance, and sometimes the expressions, where they were material. I + supposed it would be agreeable to Congress to have it communicated to + them, in the present undecided state in which these subjects are. I should + add, that an explanation of the transaction of Monsieur de Massiac with + the Algerines, before hinted at, will be found in the enclosed letter from + the Count d’Estaing to me, wherein he gives also his own opinion. The + whole is submitted to Congress, as I conceive it my duty to furnish them + with whatever information I can gather, which may throw any light on the + subjects depending before them. I have the honor to be, with the most + perfect esteem and respect, Sir, your most obedient and most humble + servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0019" id="link2H_4_0019"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XIX.—TO MR. CARMICHAEL, June 20, 1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO MR. CARMICHAEL. + </p> + <p> + Paris, June 20, 1786. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + My last to you was of the 5th of May, by Baron Waltersdorff. Since that I + have been honored with yours of April the 13th, and May the 16th and 18th. + The present covers letters to Mr. Lambe and Mr. Randall, informing them + that the demands of Algiers for the ransom of our prisoners and also for + peace, are so infinitely beyond our instructions, that we must refer the + matter back to Congress, and therefore praying them to come on + immediately. I will beg the favor of you to forward these letters. The + whole of this business, therefore, is suspended till we receive further + orders, except as to Mr. Barclay’s mission. Your bills have been received + and honored. The first naming expressly a letter of advice, and none + coming, it was refused till the receipt of your letter to me, in which you + mentioned that you had drawn two bills. I immediately informed Mr. Grand, + who thereupon honored the bill. + </p> + <p> + I have received no public letters of late date. Through other channels, I + have collected some articles of information, which may be acceptable to + you. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + In a letter of March the 20th, from Dr. Franklin to me, is this passage. + ‘As to public affairs, the Congress has not been able to assemble more + than seven or eight States during the whole winter, so the treaty with + Prussia remains still unratified, though there is no doubt of its being + done soon, as a full Congress is expected next month. The disposition to + furnish Congress with ample powers augments daily, as people become more + enlightened. And I do not remember ever to have seen, during my long life, + more signs of public felicity than appear at present, throughout these + States; the cultivators of the earth, who make the bulk of our nation, + have made good crops, which are paid for at high prices, with ready money; + the artisans, too, receive high wages; and the value of all real estates + is augmented greatly. Merchants and shopkeepers, indeed, complain that + there is not business enough. But this is evidently not owing to the + fewness of buyers, but to the too great number of sellers; for the + consumption of goods was never greater, as appears by the dress, + furniture, and manner of living, of all ranks of the people.’ His health + is good, except as to the stone, which does not grow worse. I thank you + for your attention to my request about the books, which Mr. Barclay writes + me he has forwarded from Cadiz. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be with great respect, Dear Sir, your most obedient, + humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0020" id="link2H_4_0020"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XX.—TO MR. LAMBE, June 20,1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO MR. LAMBE. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + Paris, June 20,1786. + </p> + <p> + Having communicated to Mr. Adams the information received, at different + times, from yourself, from Mr. Randall, and Mr. Carmichael, we find that + the sum likely to be demanded by Algiers for the ransom of our prisoners, + as well as for peace, is so infinitely beyond our powers, and the + expectations of Congress, that it has become our duty to refer the whole + matter back to them. Whether they will choose to buy a peace, to force + one, or to do nothing, will rest in their pleasure. But that they may have + all the information possible to guide them in their deliberations, we + think it important that you should return to them. No time will be lost by + this, and perhaps time maybe gained. It is, therefore, our joint desire, + that you repair immediately to New York, for the purpose of giving to + Congress all the information on this subject, which your journey has + enabled you to acquire. You will consider this request as coming from Mr. + Adams as well as myself, as it is by express authority from him, that I + join him in it. I am of opinion, it will be better for you to come to + Marseilles and by Paris: because there is a possibility that fresh orders + to us, from Congress, might render it useful that we, also, should have + received from you all possible information on this subject. And perhaps no + time may be lost by this, as it might be long before you would set a + passage from Alicant to America. + </p> + <p> + I am, Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0021" id="link2H_4_0021"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XXI..—TO MONSIEUR DE REYNEVAL, June 25, 1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO MONSIEUR DE REYNEVAL. + </p> + <p> + Paris, June 25, 1786. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have received letters from two citizens of the United States, of the + names of Geary and Arnold, informing me, that having for some time past + exercised commerce in London, and having failed, they were obliged to + leave that country; that they came over to Dunkirk, and from thence to + Brest, where, one of them having changed his name, the more effectually to + elude the search of his creditors, they were both imprisoned by order of + the commandant; whether at the suit of their creditors, or because one of + them changed his name, they are uninformed. But they are told, that the + commandant has sent information of his proceedings to your office. I have + some reason to suppose, their creditors are endeavoring to obtain leave to + remove them to England, where their imprisonment would be perpetual. + Unable to procure information elsewhere, I take the liberty of asking you, + whether you know the cause of their imprisonment, and of soliciting your + attention to them, so far as that nothing may take place against them by + surprise, and out of the ordinary course of the law. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect esteem and + respect, Sir, your most obedient and most humble; servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0022" id="link2H_4_0022"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XXII.—TO THE PREVOT DES MARCHANDS, September 27, 1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO THE PREVOT DES MARCHANDS ET ECHEVINS DE PARIS. + </p> + <p> + Paris, September 27, 1786. + </p> + <p> + Gentlemen, + </p> + <p> + The commonwealth of Virginia, in gratitude for the services of Major + General the Marquis de la Fayette, have determined to erect his bust in + their Capital. Desirous to place a like monument of his worth, and of + their sense of it, in the country to which they are indebted for his + birth, they have hoped that the city of Paris will consent to become the + depository of this second testimony of their gratitude. Being charged by + them with the execution of their wishes, I have the honor to solicit of + Messieurs le Prevot des Marchands et Echevins, on behalf of the city, + their acceptance of a bust of this gallant officer, and that they will be + pleased to place it where, doing most honor to him, it will most gratify + the feelings of an allied nation. + </p> + <p> + It is with true pleasure that I obey the call of that commonwealth, to + render just homage to a character so great in its first developements, + that they would honor the close of any other. Their country covered by a + small army against a great one, their exhausted means supplied by his + talents, their enemies finally forced to that spot whither their allies + and confederates were collecting to receive them, and a war which had + spread its miseries into the four quarters of the earth thus reduced to a + single point, where one blow should terminate it, and through the whole, + an implicit respect paid to the laws of the land; these are facts which + would illustrate any character, and which fully justify the warmth of + those feelings, of which I have the honor, on this occasion, to be the + organ. + </p> + <p> + It would have been more pleasing to me to have executed this office in + person, to have mingled the tribute of private gratitude with that of my + country, and, at the same time, to have had an opportunity of presenting + to your honorable body, the homage of that profound respect which I have + the honor to bear them. But I am withheld from these grateful duties, by + the consequences of a fall, which confine me to my room. Mr. Short, + therefore, a citizen of the State of Virginia, and heretofore a member of + its Council of State, will have the honor of delivering you this letter, + together with the resolution of the General Assembly of Virginia. He will + have that, also, of presenting the bust at such time and place, as you + will be so good as to signify your pleasure to receive it. Through him, I + beg to be allowed the honor of presenting those sentiments of profound + respect and veneration, with which I am, Gentlemen, your most obedient and + most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0023" id="link2H_4_0023"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XXIII.—TO COLONEL MONROE, July 9, 1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO COLONEL MONROE. + </p> + <p> + Paris, July 9, 1786. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I wrote you last on the 10th of May; since which your favor of May the + 11th has come to hand. The political world enjoys great quiet here. The + King of Prussia is still living, but like the snuff of a candle, which + sometimes seems out, and then blazes up again. Some think that his death + will not produce any immediate effect in Europe. His kingdom like a + machine, will go on for some time with the winding up he has given it. The + King’s visit to Cherbourg has made a great sensation in England and here. + It proves to the world, that it is a serious object to this country, and + that the King commits himself for the accomplishment of it. Indeed, so + many cones have been sunk, that no doubt remains of the practicability of + it. It will contain, as is said, eighty ships of the line, be one of the + best harbors in the world, and by means of two entrances, on different + sides, will admit vessels to come in and go out with every wind. The + effect of this, in another war with England, defies calculation. Having no + news to communicate, I will recur to the subjects of your letter of May + the 11th. + </p> + <p> + With respect to the new States, were the question to stand simply in this + form, How may the ultramontane territory be disposed of, so as to produce + the greatest and most immediate benefit to the inhabitants of the maritime + States of the Union? the plan would be more plausible, of laying it off + into two or three States only. Even on this view, however, there would + still be something to be said against it, which might render it at least + doubtful. But that is a question, which good faith forbids us to receive + into discussion. This requires us to state the question in its just form, + How may the territories of the Union be disposed of, so as to produce the + greatest degree of happiness to their inhabitants? With respect to the + maritime States, little or nothing remains to be done. With respect, then, + to the ultramontane States, will their inhabitants be happiest, divided + into States of thirty thousand square miles, not quite as large as + Pennsylvania, or into States of one hundred and sixty thousand square + miles each, that is to say, three times as large as Virginia within the + Allegany? They will not only be happier in States of moderate size, but it + is the only way in which they can exist as a regular society. Considering + the American character in general, that of those people particularly, and + the energetic nature of our governments, a State of such extent as one + hundred and sixty thousand square miles, would soon crumble into little + ones. These are the circumstances, which reduce the Indians to such small + societies. They would produce an effect on our people, similar to this. + They would not be broken into such small pieces, because they are more + habituated to subordination, and value more a government of regular law. + But you would surely reverse the nature of things, in making small States + on the ocean, and large ones beyond the mountains. If we could, in our + consciences, say, that great States beyond the mountains will make the + people happiest, we must still ask, whether they will be contented to be + laid off into large States. They certainly will not: and if they decide to + divide themselves, we are not able to restrain them. They will end by + separating from our confederacy, and becoming its enemies. We had better + then look forward, and see what will be the probable course of things. + This will surely be a division of that country into States, of a small, + or, at most, of a moderate size. If we lay them off into such, they will + acquiesce; and we shall have the advantage of arranging them, so as to + produce the best combinations of interest. What Congress have already done + in this matter, is an argument the more, in favor of the revolt of those + States against a different arrangement, and of their acquiescence under a + continuance of that. Upon this plan, we treat them as fellow-citizens; + they will have a just share in their own government; they will love us, + and pride themselves in an union with us. Upon the other, we treat them as + subjects; we govern them, and not they themselves; they will abhor us as + masters, and break off from us in defiance. I confess to you, that I can + see no other turn that these two plans would take. But I respect your + opinion, and your knowledge of the country, too much, to be over-confident + in my own. + </p> + <p> + I thank you sincerely for your communication, that my not having sooner + given notice of the <i>ArrĂŞts</i> relative to fish, gave discontent to + some persons. These are the most friendly offices you can do me, because + they enable me to justify myself, if I am right, or correct myself, if + wrong. If those who thought I might have been remiss, would have written + to me on the subject, I should have admired them for their candor, and + thanked them for it: for I have no jealousies nor resentments at things of + this kind, where I have no reason to believe they have been excited by a + hostile spirit; and I suspect no such spirit in a single member of + Congress. You know there were two <i>ArrĂŞts</i>; the first of August the + 30th, 1784, the second of the 18th and 25th of September, 1785. As to the + first, it would be a sufficient justification of myself, to say, that it + was in the time of my predecessor, nine months before I came into office, + and that there was no more reason for my giving information of it, when I + did come into office, than of all the other transactions, which preceded + that period. But this would seem to lay a blame on Dr. Franklin for not + communicating it, which I am confident he did not deserve. This government + affects a secrecy in all its transactions whatsoever, though they be of a + nature not to admit a perfect secrecy. Their <i>ArrĂŞts</i> respecting the + islands go to those islands, and are unpublished and unknown in France, + except in the bureau where they are formed. That of August, 1784, would + probably be communicated to the merchants of the seaport towns also. But + Paris having no commercial connections with them, if any thing makes its + way from a seaport town to Paris, it must be by accident. We have, indeed, + agents in these seaports; but they value their offices so little, that + they do not trouble themselves to inform us of what is passing there. As a + proof that these things do not transpire here, nor are easily got at, + recollect that Mr. Adams, Dr. Franklin, and myself were all here on the + spot together, from August, 1784, to June, 1785, that is to say, ten + months, and yet not one of us knew of the <i>ArrĂŞt</i> of August, 1784. + September the 18th and 25th, 1785, the second was passed. And here alone I + became responsible. I think it was about six weeks before I got notice of + it, that is, in November. On the 20th of that month, writing to Count de + Vergennes on another subject, I took occasion to remonstrate to him on + that. But from early in November, when the Fitzhughs went to America. I + had never a confidential opportunity of writing to Mr. Jay from hence, + directly, for several months. In a letter of December the 14th, to Mr. + Jay, I mentioned to him the want of an opportunity to write to him + confidentially, which obliged me at that moment to write by post via + London, and on such things only, as both post-offices were welcome to see. + On the 2nd of January, Mr. Bingham setting out for London, I wrote to Mr. + Jay, sending him a copy of my letter to Count de Vergennes, and stating + something, which had passed in conversation on the same subject. I prayed + Mr. Bingham to take charge of the letter, and either to send it by a safe + hand, or carry it himself, as circumstances should render most advisable. + I believe he kept it, to carry himself. He did not sail from London till + about the 12th of March, nor arrive in America till the middle of May. + Thus you see, that causes had prevented a letter, which I had written on + the 20th of November, from getting to America till the month of May. No + wonder, then, if notice of this <i>ArrĂŞt</i> came first to you by the way + of the West Indies: and, in general, I am confident, that you will receive + notice of the regulations of this country, respecting their islands, by + the way of those islands, before you will from hence. Nor can this be + remedied, but by a system of bribery, which would end in the corruption of + your own ministers, and produce no good adequate to the expense. Be so + good as to communicate these circumstances to the persons who you think + may have supposed me guilty of remissness on this occasion. + </p> + <p> + I will turn to a subject more pleasing to both, and give you my sincere + congratulations on your marriage. Your own dispositions, and the inherent + comforts of that state, will insure you a great addition of happiness. + Long may you live to enjoy it, and enjoy it in full measure. The interest + I feel in every one connected with you, will justify my presenting my + earliest respects to the lady, and of tendering her the homage of my + friendship. I shall be happy at all times to be useful to either of you, + and to receive your commands. I enclose you the bill of lading of your <i>EncyclopĂ©die</i>. + With respect to the remittance for it, of which you make mention, I beg + you not to think of it. I know, by experience, that on proceeding to make + a settlement in life, a man has need of all his resources; and I should be + unhappy, were you to lessen them by an attention to this trifle. Let it + lie till you have nothing else to do with your money. Adieu, my Dear Sir, + and be assured of the esteem with which I am your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0024" id="link2H_4_0024"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XXIV.—TO JOHN ADAMS, July 11, 1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN ADAMS. + </p> + <p> + Paris, July 11, 1786. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Our instructions relative to the Barbary States having required us to + proceed by way of negotiation to obtain their peace, it became our duty to + do this to the best of our power. Whatever might be our private opinions, + they were to be suppressed, and the line marked out to us was to be + followed. It has been so, honestly and zealously. It was, therefore, never + material for us to consult together on the best plan of conduct towards + these States. I acknowledge I very, early thought it would be best to + effect a peace through the medium of war. Though it is a question with + which we have nothing to do, yet as you propose some discussion of it, I + shall trouble you with my reasons. Of the four positions laid down in your + letter of the 3rd instant, I agree to the three first, which are, in + substance, that the good offices of our friends cannot procure us a peace, + without paying its price, that they cannot materially lessen that price; + and that paying it, we can have the peace in spite of the intrigues of our + enemies. As to the fourth, that the longer the negotiation is delayed, the + larger will be the demand; this will depend on the intermediate captures: + if they are many and rich, the price may be raised; if few and poor, it + will be lessened. However, if it is decided, that we shall buy a peace, I + know no reason for delaying the operation, but should rather think it + ought to be hastened: but I should prefer the obtaining it by war. + </p> + <p> + 1. Justice is in favor of this opinion. 2. Honor favors it. 3. It will + procure us respect in Europe; and respect is a safeguard to interest. 4. + It will arm the federal head with the safest of all the instruments of + coercion over its delinquent members, and prevent it from using what would + be less safe. I think, that so far you go with me. But in the next steps + we shall differ. 5. I think it least expensive. 6. Equally effectual. I + ask a fleet of one hundred and fifty guns, the one half of which shall be + in constant cruise. This fleet, built, manned, and victualled for six + months, will cost four hundred and fifty thousand pounds sterling. Its + annual expense will be three hundred pounds sterling a gun, including + every thing: this will be forty-five thousand pounds sterling a year. I + take British experience for the basis of my calculation: though we know, + from our own experience, that we can do in this way for pounds lawful, + what costs them pounds sterling. Were we to charge all this to the + Algerine war, it would amount to little more than we must pay if we buy + peace. But as it is proper and necessary, that we should establish a small + marine force (even were we to buy a peace from the Algerines), and as that + force, laid up in our dock-yard, would cost us half as much annually as if + kept in order for service, we have a right to say, that only twenty-two + thousand and five hundred pounds sterling, per annum, should be charged to + the Algerine war. 6. It will be as effectual. To all the mismanagements of + Spain and Portugal, urged to show that war against those people is + ineffectual, I urge a single fact to prove the contrary, where there is + any management. About forty years ago, the Algerines having broke their + treaty with France, this court sent Monsieur de Massiac, with one large + and two small frigates: he blockaded the harbor of Algiers three months, + and they subscribed to the terms he proposed. If it be admitted, however, + that war, on the fairest prospects, is still exposed to uncertainties, I + weigh against this the greater uncertainty of the duration of a peace + bought with money, from such a people, from a Dey eighty years old, and by + a nation who, on the hypothesis of buying peace, is to have no power on + the sea to enforce an observance of it. + </p> + <p> + So far I have gone on the supposition, that the whole weight of this war + would rest on us. But, 1. Naples will join us. The character of their + naval minister (Acton), his known sentiments with respect to the peace + Spain is officiously trying to make for them, and his dispositions against + the Algerines, give the best grounds to believe it. 2. Every principle of + reason assures,us, that Portugal will join us. I state this as taking for + granted, what all seem to believe, that they will not be at peace with + Algiers. I suppose, then, that a convention might be formed between + Portugal, Naples, and the United States, by which the burthen of the war + might be quotaed on them, according to their respective wealth; and the + term of it should be, when Algiers should subscribe to a peace with all + three on equal terms. This might be left open for other nations to accede + to, and many, if not most of the powers of Europe (except France, England, + Holland, and Spain, if her peace be made), would sooner or later enter + into the confederacy, for the sake of having their peace with the + piratical States guarantied by the whole. I suppose, that, in this case, + our proportion of force would not be the half of what I first calculated + on. + </p> + <p> + These are the reasons, which have influenced my judgment on this question. + I give them to you, to show you that I am imposed on by a semblance of + reason at least; and not with an expectation of their changing your + opinion. You have viewed the subject, I am sure, in all its bearings. You + have weighed both questions, with all their circumstances. You make the + result different from what I do. The same facts impress us differently. + This is enough to make me suspect an error in my process of reasoning, + though I am not able to detect it. It is of no consequence; as I have + nothing to say in the decision, and am ready to proceed heartily on any + other plan, which may be adopted, if my agency should be thought useful. + With respect to the dispositions of the States, I am utterly uninformed. I + cannot help thinking, however, that on a view of all the circumstances, + they might be united in either of the plans. + </p> + <p> + Having written this on the receipt of your letter, without knowing of any + opportunity of sending it, I know not when it will go: I add nothing, + therefore, on any other subject, but assurances of the sincere esteem and + respect, with which I am, + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0025" id="link2H_4_0025"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XXV.—TO JOHN JAY, August 11, 1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 11, 1786. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + Since the date of my last, which was of July the 8th, I have been honored + with the receipt of yours of June the 16th. I am to thank you, on the part + of the minister of Geneva, for the intelligence it contained on the + subject of Gallatin, whose relations will be relieved by the receipt of + it. + </p> + <p> + The enclosed intelligence, relative to the instructions of the court of + London to Sir Guy Carleton, came to me through the Count de la Touche and + Marquis de la Fayette. De la Touche is a director under the Marechal de + Castries, minister for the marine department, and possibly receives his + intelligence from him, and he from their ambassador at London. Possibly, + too, it might be fabricated here. Yet weighing the characters of the + ministry of St. James’s and Versailles, I think the former more capable of + giving such instructions, than the latter of fabricating them for the + small purposes the fabrication could answer. + </p> + <p> + The Gazette of France, of July the 28th, announces the arrival of Peyrouse + at Brazil, that he was to touch at Otaheite, and proceed to California, + and still further northwardly. This paper, as you well know, gives out + such facts as the court are willing the world should be possessed of. The + presumption is, therefore, that they will make an establishment of some + sort on the northwest coast of America. + </p> + <p> + I trouble you with the copy of a letter from Schweighauser and Dobree, on + a subject with which I am quite unacquainted. Their letter to Congress of + November the 30th, 1780, gives their state of the matter. How far it be + true and just, can probably be ascertained from Dr. Franklin, Dr. Lee, and + other gentlemen now in America. I shall be glad to be honored with the + commands of Congress on this subject. I have inquired into the state of + the arms, mentioned in their letter to me. The principal articles were + about thirty thousand bayonets, fifty thousand gunlocks, thirty cases of + arms, twenty-two cases of sabres, and some other things of little + consequence. The quay at Nantes having been overflowed by the river Loire, + the greatest part of these arms was under water, and they are now, as I am + informed, a solid mass of rust, not worth the expense of throwing them out + of the warehouse, much less that of storage. Were not their want of value + a sufficient reason against reclaiming the property of these arms, it + rests with Congress to decide, whether other reasons are not opposed to + this reclamation. They were the property of a sovereign body, they were + seized by an individual, taken cognizance of by a court of justice, and + refused, or at least not restored by the sovereign, within whose State + they had been arrested. These are circumstances which have been mentioned + to me. Doctor Franklin, however, will be able to inform Congress, with + precision, as to what passed on this subject. If the information I have + received be any thing like the truth, the discussion of this matter can + only be with the court of Versailles. It would be very delicate, and could + have but one of two objects; either to recover the arms, which are not + worth receiving, or to satisfy us on the point of honor. Congress will + judge how far the latter may be worth pursuing against a particular ally, + and under actual circumstances. An instance, too, of acquiescence on our + part under a wrong, rather than disturb our friendship by altercations, + may have its value in some future case. However, I shall be ready to do in + this what Congress shall be pleased to direct. + </p> + <p> + I enclose the despatches relative to the Barbary negotiation, received + since my last. It is painful to me to overwhelm Congress and yourself + continually with these voluminous papers. But I have no right to suppress + any part of them, and it is one of those cases, where, from a want of well + digested information, we must be contented to examine a great deal of + rubbish, in order to find a little good matter. + </p> + <p> + The gazettes of Leyden and France, to the present date, accompany this, + which, for want of direct and safe opportunities, I am obliged to send by + an American gentleman, by the way of London. The irregularity of the + French packets has diverted elsewhere the tide of passengers who used to + furnish me occasions of writing to you, without permitting my letters to + go through the post-office. So that when the packets go now, I can seldom + write by them. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the highest esteem and respect, + Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [The annexed is a translation of the paper referred to in + the preceding letter, on the subject of the instructions + given to Sir Guy Carleton.] +</pre> + <p> + <i>An extract of English political news, concerning North America, July + 14th, 1786</i>. + </p> + <p> + General Carleton departs in a few days with M. de la Naudiere, a Canadian + gentleman. He has made me acquainted with the Indian Colonel Joseph + Brandt. It is certain that he departs with the most positive instructions + to distress the Americans as much as possible, and to create them enemies + on all sides. + </p> + <p> + Colonel Brandt goes loaded with presents for himself, and for several + chiefs of the tribes bordering on Canada. It would be well for the + Americans to know in time, that enemies are raised against them, in order + to derange their system of government, and to add to the confusion which + already exists in it. The new possessions of England will not only gain + what America shall lose, but will acquire strength in proportion to the + weakening of the United States. + </p> + <p> + Sooner or later, the new States which are forming will place themselves + under the protection of England, which can always communicate with them + through Canada; and which, in case of future necessity, can harass the + United States on one side, by her shipping, and on the other, by her + intrigues. This system has not yet come to maturity, but it is unfolded, + and we may rely upon the instructions given to Colonel Brandt. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0026" id="link2H_4_0026"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XXVI.—TO COLONEL MONROE, August 11, 1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO COLONEL MONROE. + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 11, 1786. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I wrote you last on the 9th of July; and since that, have received yours + of the 16th of June, with the interesting intelligence it contained. I was + entirely in the dark as to the progress of that negotiation, and concur + entirely in the views you have taken of it The difficulty on which it + hangs, is a <i>sine qua non</i> with us. It would be to deceive them and + ourselves, to suppose that an amity can be preserved, while this right is + withheld. Such a supposition would argue, not only an ignorance of the + people to whom this is most interesting, but an ignorance of the nature of + man, or an inattention to it. Those who see but halfway into our true + interest, will think that that concurs with the views of the other party. + But those who see it in all its extent, will be sensible that our true + interest will be best promoted, by making all the just claims of our + fellow-citizens, wherever situated, our own, by urging and enforcing them + with the weight of our whole influence, and by exercising in this, as in + every other instance, a just government in their concerns, and making + common cause, even where our separate interest would seem opposed to + theirs. No other conduct can attach us together; and on this attachment + depends our happiness. + </p> + <p> + The King of Prussia still lives, and is even said to be better. Europe is + very quiet at present. The only germ of dissension which shows itself at + present, is in the quarter of Turkey. The Emperor, the Empress, and the + Venetians seem all to be picking at the Turks. It is not probable, + however, that either of the two first will do any thing to bring on an + open rupture, while the King of Prussia lives. + </p> + <p> + You will perceive by the letters I enclose to Mr. Jay, that Lambe, under + the pretext of ill health, declines returning either to Congress, Mr. + Adams, or myself. This circumstance makes me fear some malversation. The + money appropriated to this object being in Holland, and having been always + under the care of Mr. Adams, it was concerted between us that all the + drafts should be on him. I know not, therefore, what sums may have been + advanced to Lambe; I hope, however, nothing great. I am persuaded that an + angel sent on this business, and so much limited in his terms, could have + done nothing. But should Congress propose to try the line of negotiation + again, I think they will perceive that Lambe is not a proper agent. I have + written to Mr. Adams on the subject of a settlement with Lambe. There is + little prospect of accommodation between the Algerines, and the Portuguese + and Neapolitans. A very valuable capture too, lately made by them on the + Empress of Russia, bids fair to draw her on them. The probability is + therefore, that these three nations will be at war with them, and the + possibility is that could we furnish a couple of frigates, a convention + might be formed with those powers, establishing a perpetual cruise on the + coast of Algiers, which would bring them to reason. Such a convention + being left open to all powers willing to come into it, should have for its + object a general peace, to be guarantied to each, by the whole. Were only + two or three to begin a confederacy of this kind, I think every power in + Europe would soon fall into it, except France, England, and perhaps Spain + and Holland. Of these there is only England who would give any real aid to + the Algerines. Morocco, you perceive, will be at peace with us. Were the + honor and advantage of establishing such a confederacy out of the + question, yet the necessity that the United States should have some marine + force, and the happiness of this, as the ostensible cause for beginning + it, would decide on its propriety. It will be said, there is no money in + the treasury. There never will be money in the treasury till the + confederacy shows its teeth. The States must see the rod; perhaps it must + be felt by some one of them. I am persuaded, all of them would rejoice to + see every one obliged to furnish its contributions. It is not the + difficulty of furnishing them, which beggars the treasury, but the fear + that others will not furnish as much. Every rational citizen must wish to + see an effective instrument of coercion, and should fear to see it on any + other element than the water. A naval force can never endanger our + liberties, nor occasion bloodshed: a land force would do both. It is not + in the choice of the States, whether they will pay money to cover their + trade against the Algerines. If they obtain a peace by negotiation, they + must pay a great sum of money for it; if they do nothing, they must pay a + great sum of money, in the form of insurance; and in either way, as great + a one as in the way of force, and probably less effectual. + </p> + <p> + I look forward with anxiety to the approaching moment of your departure + from Congress. Besides the interest of the confederacy and of the State, I + have a personal interest in it. I know not to whom I may venture + confidential communications, after you are gone. I take the liberty of + placing here my respects to Mrs. Monroe, and assurances of the sincere + esteem with which I am, Dear Sir, your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0027" id="link2H_4_0027"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XXVII.—TO MR. WYTHE, August 13,1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO MR. WYTHE. + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 13,1786. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir + </p> + <p> + Your favors of January the 10th and February the 10th, came to hand on the + 20th and 23rd of May. I availed myself of the first opportunity which + occurred, by a gentleman going to England, of sending to Mr. Joddrel a + copy of the Notes on our country! with a line informing him, that it was + you who had emboldened me to take that liberty. Madison, no doubt, + informed you of the reason why I had sent only a single copy to Virginia. + Being assured by him, that they will not do the harm I had apprehended, + but on the contrary may do some good, I propose to send thither the copies + remaining on hand, which are fewer than I had intended. But of the + numerous corrections they need, there are one or two so essential, that I + must have them made, by printing a few new leaves, and substituting them + for the old. This will be done while they are engraving a map which I have + constructed, of the country from Albemarle sound to Lake Erie, and which + will be inserted in the book. A bad French translation which is getting + out here, will probably oblige me to publish the original more freely; + which it did not deserve, nor did I intend. Your wishes, which are laws to + me, will justify my destining a copy for you, otherwise, I should as soon + have thought of sending you a horn-book; for there is no truth in it which + is not familiar to you, and its errors I should hardly have proposed to + treat you with. + </p> + <p> + Immediately on the receipt of your letter, I wrote to a correspondent at + Florence to inquire after the family of Tagliaferro, as you desired. I + received his answer two days ago, a copy of which I now enclose. The + original shall be sent by some other occasion. I will have the + copper-plate immediately engraved. This may be ready within a few days, + but the probability is, that I shall be long getting an opportunity of + sending it to you, as these rarely occur. You do not mention the size of + the plate, but presuming it is intended for labels for the inside of + books, I shall have it made of a proper size for that. I shall omit the + word <i>agisos</i>, according to the license you allow me, because I think + the beauty of a motto is to condense much matter in as few words as + possible. The word omitted will be supplied by every reader. + </p> + <p> + The European papers have announced, that the Assembly of Virginia were + occupied on the revisal of their code of laws. This, with some other + similar intelligence, has contributed much to convince the people of + Europe, that what the English papers are constantly publishing of our + anarchy, is false; as they are sensible that such a work is that of a + people only, who are in perfect tranquillity. Our act for freedom of + religion is extremely applauded. The ambassadors and ministers of the + several nations of Europe, resident at this court, have asked of me copies + of it, to send to their sovereigns, and it is inserted at full length in + several books now in the press; among others, in the new <i>EncyclopĂ©die</i>. + I think it will produce considerable good even in these countries, where + ignorance, superstition, poverty, and oppression of body and mind, in + every form, are so firmly settled on the mass of the people, that their + redemption from them can never be hoped. If all the sovereigns of Europe + were to set themselves to work, to emancipate the minds of their subjects + from their present ignorance and prejudices, and that, as zealously as + they now endeavor the contrary, a thousand years would not place them on + that high ground, on which our common people are now setting out. Ours + could not have been so fairly placed under the control of the common sense + of the people, had they not been separated from their parent stock, and + kept from contamination, either from them, or the other people of the old + world, by the intervention of so wide an ocean. To know the worth of this, + one must see the want of it here. I think by far the most important bill + in our whole code, is that for the diffusion of knowledge among the + people. No other sure foundation can be devised for the preservation of + freedom and happiness. If any body thinks, that kings, nobles, or priests + are good conservators of the public happiness, send him here. It is the + best school in the universe to cure him of that folly. He will see here, + with his own eyes, that these descriptions of men are an abandoned + confederacy against the happiness of the mass of the people. The + omnipotence of their effect cannot be better proved, than in this country + particularly, where, notwithstanding the finest soil upon earth, the + finest climate under heaven, and a people of the most benevolent, the most + gay and amiable character of which the human form is susceptible; where + such a people, I say, surrounded by so many blessings from nature, are + loaded with misery by kings, nobles, and priests, and by them alone. + Preach, my dear Sir, a crusade against ignorance; establish and improve + the law for educating the common people. Let our countrymen know, that the + people alone can protect us against these evils, and that the tax which + will be paid for this purpose, is not more than the thousandth part of + what will be paid to kings, priests, and nobles, who will rise up among us + if we leave the people in ignorance. The people of England, I think, are + less oppressed than here. But it needs but half an eye to see, when among + them, that the foundation is laid in their dispositions for the + establishment of a despotism. Nobility, wealth, and pomp are the objects + of their admiration. They are by no means the free-minded people, we + suppose them in America. Their learned men, too, are few in number, and + are less learned, and infinitely less emancipated from prejudice, than + those of this country. An event, too, seems to be preparing, in the order + of things, which will probably decide the fate of that country. It is no + longer doubtful, that the harbor of Cherbourg will be complete, that it + will be a most excellent one, and capacious enough to hold the whole navy + of France. Nothing has ever been wanting to enable this country to invade + that, but a naval force conveniently stationed to protect the transports. + This change of situation must oblige the English to keep up a great + standing army, and there is no King, who, with sufficient force, is not + always ready to make himself absolute. My paper warns me, it is time to + recommend myself to the friendly recollection of Mrs. Wythe, of Colonel + Taliaferro and his family, and particularly of Mr. R. T. and to assure you + of the affectionate esteem, with which I am, + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0028" id="link2H_4_0028"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XXVIII.—TO MRS. COSWAY, October 12, 1786 + </h2> + <h3> + TO MRS. COSWAY. + </h3> + <p> + Paris, October 12, 1786. + </p> + <p> + My Dear Madam, + </p> + <p> + Having performed the last sad office of handing you into your carriage, at + the pavillion de St. Denis, and seen the wheels get actually into motion, + I turned on my heel and walked, more dead than alive, to the opposite + door, where my own was awaiting me. Mr. Danquerville was missing. He was + sought for, found, and dragged down stairs. We were crammed into the + carriage, like recruits for the Bastille, and not having soul enough to + give orders to the coachman, he presumed Paris our destination, and drove + off. After a considerable interval, silence was broke, with a ‘<i>Je suis + vraiment affligĂ© du depart de ces bons gens.</i>’ This was a signal for + mutual confession of distress. We began immediately to talk of Mr. and + Mrs. Cosway, of their goodness, their talents, their amiability; and + though we spoke of nothing else, we seemed hardly to have entered into the + matter, when the coachman announced the rue St. Denis, and that we were + opposite Mr. Danquerville’s. He insisted on descending there, and + traversing a short passage to his lodgings. I was carried home. Seated by + my fire-side, solitary and sad, the following dialogue took place between + my Head and my Heart. + </p> + <p> + Head. Well, friend, you seem to be in a pretty trim. + </p> + <p> + Heart. I am indeed the most wretched of all earthly beings. Overwhelmed + with grief, every fibre of my frame distended beyond its natural powers to + bear, I would willingly meet whatever catastrophe should leave me no more + to feel, or to fear. + </p> + <p> + Head. These are the eternal consequences of your warmth and precipitation. + This is one of the scrapes into which you are ever leading us. You confess + your follies, indeed; but still you hug and cherish them; and no + reformation can be hoped, where there is no repentance. + </p> + <p> + Heart. Oh, my friend! this is no moment to upbraid my foibles. I am rent + into fragments by the force of my grief! If you have any balm, pour it + into my wounds; if none, do not harrow them by new torments. Spare me in + this awful moment! At any other, I will attend with patience to your + admonitions. + </p> + <p> + Head. On the contrary, I never found that the moment of triumph, with you, + was the moment of attention to my admonitions. While suffering under your + follies, you may perhaps be made sensible of them; but, the paroxysm over, + you fancy it can never return. Harsh, therefore, as the medicine may be, + it is my office to administer it. You will be pleased to remember, that + when our friend Trumbull used to be telling us of the merits and talents + of these good people, I never ceased whispering to you that we had no + occasion for new acquaintances; that the greater their merit and talents, + the more dangerous their friendship to our tranquillity, because the + regret at parting would be greater. + </p> + <p> + Heart. Accordingly, Sir, this acquaintance was not the consequence of my + doings. It was one of your projects, which threw us in the way of it. It + was you, remember, and not I, who desired the meeting at Legrand and + Motinos. I never trouble myself with domes nor arches. The <i>Halle aux + bleds</i> might have rotted down, before I should have gone to see it. But + you, forsooth, who are eternally getting us to sleep with your diagrams + and crotchets, must go and examine this wonderful piece of architecture; + and when you had seen it, oh! it was the most superb thing on earth! What + you had seen there was worth all you had yet seen in Paris! I thought so + too. But I meant it of the lady and gentleman to whom we had been + presented; and not of a parcel of sticks and chips put together in pens. + You then, Sir, and not I, have been the cause of the present distress. + </p> + <p> + Head. It would have been happy for you, if my diagrams and crotchets had + gotten you to sleep on that day, as you are pleased to say they eternally + do. My visit to Legrand and Motinos, had public utility for its object. A + market is to be built in Richmond. What a commodious plan is that of + Legrand and Motinos; especially, if we put on it the noble dome of the <i>Halle + aux bleds</i>. If such a bridge as they showed us, can be thrown across + the Schuylkill, at Philadelphia, the floating bridges taken up, and the + navigation of that river opened, what a copious resource will be added of + wood and provisions, to warm and feed the poor of that city? While I was + occupied with these objects, you were dilating with your new + acquaintances, and contriving how to prevent a separation from them. Every + soul of you had an engagement for the day. Yet all these were to be + sacrificed, that you might dine together. Lying messengers were to be + despatched into every quarter of the city, with apologies for your breach + of engagement. You, particularly, had the effrontery to send word to the + Duchess Danville, that on the moment we were setting out to dine with her, + despatches came to hand, which required immediate attention. You wanted me + to invent a more ingenious excuse; but I knew you were getting into a + scrape, and I would have nothing to do with it. Well; after dinner to St. + Cloud, from St. Cloud to Ruggieri’s, from Ruggieri’s to Krumfoltz; and if + the day had been as long as a Lapland summer day, you would still have + contrived means among you to have filled it. + </p> + <p> + Heart. Oh! my dear friend, how you have revived me, by recalling to mind + the transactions of that day! How well I remember them all, and that when + I came home at night, and looked back to the morning, it seemed to have + been a month agone. Go on, then, like a kind comforter, and paint to me + the day we went to St. Germains. How beautiful was every object! the <i>Port + de Reuilly</i>, the hills along the Seine, the rainbows of the machine of + Marly, the terras of St. Germains, the chateaux, the gardens, the statues + of Marly, the pavillion of Lucienne. Recollect, too, Madrid, Bagatelle, + the King’s garden, the Desert. How grand the idea excited by the remains + of such a column. The spiral staircase, too, was beautiful. Every moment + was filled with something agreeable. The wheels of time moved on with a + rapidity, of which those of our carriage gave but a faint idea. And yet, + in the evening, when one took a retrospect of the day, what a mass of + happiness had we travelled over! Retrace all those scenes to me, my good + companion, and I will forgive the unkindness with which you were chiding + me. The day we went to St. Germains was a little too warm, I think; was it + not? + </p> + <p> + Head. Thou art the most incorrigible of all the beings that ever sinned! I + reminded you of the follies of the first day, intending to deduce from + thence some useful lessons for you, but instead of listening to them, you + kindle at the recollection, you retrace the whole series with a fondness, + which shows you want nothing but the opportunity, to act it over again. I + often told you, during its course, that you were imprudently engaging your + affections, under circumstances that must cost you a great deal of pain; + that the persons, indeed, were of the greatest merit, possessing good + sense, good humor, honest hearts, honest manners, and eminence in a lovely + art; that the lady had, moreover, qualities and accomplishments belonging + to her sex, which might form a chapter apart for her; such as music, + modesty, beauty, and that softness of disposition, which is the ornament + of her sex, and charm of ours: but that all these considerations would + increase the pang of separation, that their stay here was to be short; + that you rack our whole system when you are parted from those you love, + complaining that such a separation is worse than death, inasmuch as this + ends our sufferings, whereas that only begins them; and that the + separation would, in this instance, be the more severe, as you, would + probably never see them again. + </p> + <p> + Heart. But they told me, they would come back again the next year. + </p> + <p> + Head. But in the mean time, see what you surfer: and their return, too, + depends on so many circumstances, that, if you had a grain of prudence, + you would not count upon it. Upon the whole, it is improbable, and + therefore you should abandon the idea of ever seeing them again. + </p> + <p> + Heart. May Heaven abandon me, if I do! + </p> + <p> + Head. Very well. Suppose, then, they come back. They are to stay two + months, and when these are expired, what is to follow? Perhaps you flatter + yourself they may come to America? + </p> + <p> + Heart. God only knows what is to happen. I see nothing impossible in that + supposition: and I see things wonderfully contrived sometimes to make us + happy. Where could they find such objects as in America, for the exercise + of their enchanting art; especially the lady, who paints landscapes so + inimitably? She wants only subjects worthy of immortality, to render her + pencil immortal. The Falling Spring, the Cascade of Niagara, the Passage + of the Potomac through the Blue Mountains, the Natural Bridge; it is worth + a voyage across the Atlantic to see these objects; much more to paint, and + make them, and thereby ourselves, known to all ages. And our own dear + Monticello; where has nature spread so rich a mantle under the eye?—mountains, + forests rocks, rivers. With what majesty do we there ride above the + storms! How sublime to look down into the workhouse of nature to see her + clouds, hail, snow, rain, thunder, all fabricated at our feet! and the + glorious sun when rising as if out of a distant water, lust gilding the + tops of the mountains, and giving life to all nature! 1 hope in God, no + circumstance may ever make either seek an asylum from grief! With what + sincere sympathy I would open every cell of my composition, to receive the + effusion of their woes! + </p> + <p> + I would pour my tears into their wounds; and if a drop of balm could be + found on the top of the Cordilleras, or at the remotest sources of the + Missouri, I would go thither myself to seek and to bring it. Deeply + practised in the school of affliction, the human heart knows no joy which + I have not lost, no sorrow of which I have not drank! Fortune can present + no grief of unknown form to me! Who, then, can so softly bind up the wound + of another, as he who has felt the same wound himself? But Heaven forbid, + they should ever know a sorrow! Let us turn over another leaf, for this + has distracted me. + </p> + <p> + Head. Well. Let us put this possibility to trial, then, on another point. + When you consider the character which is given of our country by the lying + newspapers of London, and their credulous copyers in other countries; when + you reflect, that all Europe is made to believe we are a lawless banditti, + in a state of absolute anarchy, cutting one another’s throats, and + plundering without distinction, how could you expect, that any reasonable + creature would venture among us? + </p> + <p> + Heart. But you and I know, that all this is false: that there is not a + country on earth, where there is greater tranquillity; where the laws are + milder, or better obeyed; where every one is more attentive to his own + business, or meddles less with that of others; where strangers are better + received, more hospitably treated, and with a more sacred respect. + </p> + <p> + Head. True, you and I know this, but your friends do not know it. + </p> + <p> + Heart. But they are sensible people, who think for themselves. They will + ask of impartial foreigners, who have been among us, whether they saw or + heard on the spot any instance of anarchy. They will judge, too, that a + people occupied, as we are, in opening rivers, digging navigable canals, + making roads, building public schools, establishing academies, erecting + busts and statues to our great men, protecting religious freedom, + abolishing sanguinary punishments, reforming and improving our laws in + general; they will judge, I say, for themselves, whether these are not the + occupations of a people at their ease; whether this is not better evidence + of our true state, than a London newspaper, hired to lie, and from which + no truth can ever be extracted, but by reversing every thing it says. + </p> + <p> + Head. I did not begin this lecture, my friend, with a view to learn from + you what America is doing. Let us return, then, to our point. I wish to + make you sensible how imprudent it is to place your affections without + reserve on objects you must so soon lose, and whose loss, when it comes, + must cost you such severe pangs. Remember the last night. You knew your + friends were to leave Paris to-day. This was enough to throw you into + agonies. All night you tossed us from one side of the bed to the other; no + sleep, no rest. The poor Crippled wrist, too, never left one moment in the + same position; now up, now down, now here, now there; was it to be + wondered at, if its pains returned? The surgeon then was to be called, and + to be rated as an ignoramus, because he could not divine the cause of this + extraordinary change. In fine, my friend, you must mend your manners. This + is not a world to live at random in, as you do. To avoid those eternal + distresses, to which you are for ever exposing us, you must learn to look + forward before you take a step, which may interest our peace. Every thing + in this world is matter of calculation. Advance, then, with caution, the + balance in your hand. Put into one scale the pleasures which any object + may offer; but put fairly into the other the pains which are to follow, + and see which preponderates. The making an acquaintance is not a matter of + indifference. When a new one is proposed to you, view it all round. + Consider what advantages it presents, and to what inconveniences it may + expose you. Do not bite at the bait of pleasure, till you know there is no + hook beneath it. The art of life is the art of avoiding pain; and he is + the best pilot, who steers clearest of the rocks and shoals with which it + is beset. Pleasure is always before us; but misfortune is at our side: + while running after that, this arrests us. The most effectual means of + being secure against pain, is to retire within ourselves, and to suffice + for our own happiness. Those which depend on ourselves, are the only + pleasures a wise man will count on; for nothing is ours, which another may + deprive us of. Hence the inestimable value of intellectual pleasures. Ever + in our power, always leading us to something new, never cloying, we ride + serene and sublime above the concerns of this mortal world, contemplating + truth and nature, matter and motion, the laws which bind up their + existence, and that Eternal Being, who made and bound them up by those + laws. Let this be our employ. Leave the bustle and tumult of society to + those who have not talents to occupy themselves without them. Friendship + is but another name for an alliance with the follies and the misfortunes + of others. Our own share of miseries is sufficient: why enter then as + volunteers into those of another? Is there so little gall poured into our + cup, that we must heed help to drink that of our neighbor? A friend dies, + or leaves us: we feel as if a limb was cut off. He is sick: we must watch + over him, and participate of his pains. His fortune is shipwrecked: ours + must be laid under contribution. He loses a child, a parent, or a partner: + we must mourn the loss as if it were our own. + </p> + <p> + Heart. And what more sublime delight, than to mingle tears with one whom + the hand of Heaven hath smitten! to watch over the bed of sickness, and to + beguile its tedious and its painful moments! to share our bread with one + to whom misfortune has left none! This world abounds indeed with misery: + to lighten its burthen, we must divide it with one another. But let us now + try the virtue of your mathematical balance, and as you have put into one + scale the burthens of friendship, let me put its comforts into the other. + When languishing then under disease, how grateful is the solace of our + friends! how are we penetrated with their assiduities and attentions! how + much are we supported by their encouragements and kind offices! When + Heaven has taken from us some object of our love, how sweet is it to have + a bosom whereon to recline our heads, and into which we may pour the + torrent of our tears! Grief, with such a comfort, is almost a luxury! In a + life where we are perpetually exposed to want and accident, yours is a + wonderful proposition, to insulate ourselves, to retire from all aid, and + to wrap ourselves in the mantle of self-sufficiency! For assuredly nobody + will care for him, who cares for nobody. But friendship is precious, not + only in the shade, but in the sunshine of life: and thanks to a benevolent + arrangement of things, the greater part of life is sunshine. I will recur + for proof to the days we have lately passed. On these, indeed, the sun + shone brightly! How gay did the face of nature appear! Hills, valleys, + chateaux, gardens, rivers, every object wore its liveliest hue! Whence did + they borrow it? From the presence of our charming companion. They were + pleasing, because she seemed pleased. Alone, the scene would have been + dull and insipid: the participation of it with her gave it relish. Let the + gloomy monk, sequestered from the world, seek unsocial pleasures in the + bottom of his cell! Let the sublimated philosopher grasp visionary + happiness, while pursuing phantoms dressed in the garb of truth! Their + supreme wisdom is supreme folly: and they mistake for happiness the mere + absence of pain. Had they ever felt the solid pleasure of one generous + spasm of the heart, they would exchange for it all the frigid speculations + of their lives, which you have been vaunting in such elevated terms. + Believe me, then, my friend, that that is a miserable arithmetic, which + could estimate friendship at nothing, or at less than nothing. Respect for + you has induced me to enter into this discussion, and to hear principles + uttered, which I detest and abjure. Respect for myself now obliges me to + recall you into the proper limits of your office. When nature assigned us + the same habitation, she gave us over it a divided empire. To you she + allotted the field of science; to me that of morals. + </p> + <p> + When the circle is to be squared, or the orbit of a comet to be traced; + when the arch of greatest strength, or the solid of least resistance is to + be investigated, take up the problem; it is yours; nature has given me no + cognizance of it. In like manner, in denying to you the feelings of + sympathy, of benevolence, of gratitude, of justice, of love, of + friendship, she has excluded you from their control. To these she has + adapted the mechanism of the heart. Morals were too essential to the + happiness of man, to be risked on the uncertain combinations of the head. + She laid their foundation, therefore, in sentiment, not in science. That + she gave to all, as necessary to all: this to a few only, as sufficing + with a few. I know indeed, that you pretend authority to the sovereign + control of our conduct, in all its parts: and a respect for your grave + saws and maxims, a desire to do what is right, has sometimes induced me to + conform to your counsels. A few facts, however, which I can readily recall + to your memory, will suffice to prove to you, that nature has not + organized you for our moral direction. When the poor wearied soldier, whom + we overtook at Chickahominy, with his pack on his back, begged us to let + him get up behind our chariot, you began to calculate that the road was + full of soldiers, and that if all should be taken up, our horses would + fail in their journey. We drove on therefore. But soon becoming sensible + you had made me do wrong, that though we cannot relieve all the + distressed, we should relieve as many as we can, I turned about to take up + the soldier; but he had entered a by-path, and was no more to be found: + and from that moment to this, I could never find him out to ask his + forgiveness. Again, when the poor woman came to ask a charity in + Philadelphia, you whispered, that she looked like a drunkard, and that + half a dollar was enough to give her for the ale-house. Those who want the + dispositions to give, easily find reasons why they ought not to give. When + I sought her out afterwards, and did what I should have done at first, you + know, that she employed the money immediately towards placing her child at + school. If our country, when pressed with wrongs at the point of the + bayonet, had been governed by its heads instead of its’ hearts, where + should we have been now? Hanging on a gallows as high as Hainan’s. You + began to calculate, and to compare wealth and numbers: we threw up a few + pulsations of our blood; we supplied enthusiasm against wealth and + numbers; we put our existence to the hazard, when the hazard seemed + against us, and we saved our country: justifying, at the same time, the + ways of Providence, whose precept is, to do always what is right, and + leave the issue to him. In short, my friend, as far as my recollection + serves me, I do not know that I ever did a good thing on your suggestion, + or a dirty one without it. I do for ever, then, disclaim your interference + in my province. Fill paper as you please with triangles and squares: try + how many ways you can hang and combine them together. I shall never envy + nor control your sublime delights. But leave me to decide when and where + friendships are to be contracted. You say I contract them at random. So + you said the woman at Philadelphia was a drunkard. I receive none into my + esteem, till I know they are worthy of it. Wealth, title, office, are no + recommendations to my friendship. On the contrary, great good qualities + are requisite to make amends for their having wealth, title, and office. + You confess, that, in the present case, I could not have made a worthier + choice. You only object, that I was so soon to lose them. We are not + immortal ourselves, my friend; how can we expect our enjoyments to be so? + We have no rose without its thorn; no pleasure without alloy. It is the + law of our existence; and we must acquiesce. It is the condition annexed + to all our pleasures, not by us who receive, but by him who gives them. + True, this condition is pressing cruelly on me at this moment. I feel more + fit for death than life. But when I look back on the pleasures of which it + is the consequence, I am conscious they were worth the price I am paying. + Notwithstanding your endeavors, too, to damp my hopes, I comfort myself + with expectations of their promised return. Hope is sweeter than despair; + and they were too good to mean to deceive me. ‘In the summer,’ said the + gentleman; but ‘In the spring,’ said the lady; and I should love her for + ever, were it only for that! Know, then, my friend, that I have taken + these good people into my bosom; that I have lodged them in the warmest + cell I could find; that I love them, and will continue to love them + through life; that if fortune should dispose them on one side the globe, + and me on the other, my affections shall pervade its whole mass to reach + them. Knowing then my determination, attempt not to disturb it. If you can + at any time furnish matter for their amusement, it will be the office of a + good neighbor to do it. I will, in like manner, seize any occasion which + may offer, to do the like good turn for you with Condorcet, Rittenhouse, + Madison, La Cretelle, or any other of those worthy sons of science, whom + you so justly prize. + </p> + <p> + I thought this a favorable proposition whereon to rest the issue of the + dialogue. So I put an end to it by calling for my nightcap. Methinks, I + hear you wish to Heaven I had called a little sooner, and so spared you + the <i>ennui</i> of such a sermon. I did not interrupt them sooner, + because I was in a mood for hearing sermons. You, too, were the subject; + and on such a thesis, I never think the theme long; not even if I am to + write it, and that slowly and awkwardly, as now, with the left hand. But + that you may not be discouraged from a correspondence, which begins so + formidably, I will promise you, on my honor, that my future letters shall + be of a reasonable length. I will even agree to express but half my esteem + for you, for fear of cloying you with too full a dose. But on your part, + no curtailing. If your letters are as long as the Bible, they will appear + short to me. Only let them be brim full of affection. I shall read them + with the dispositions with which Arlequin, in <i>Les Deux Billets</i>, + spelt the words ‘<i>Je t’aime,</i>’ and wished that the whole alphabet had + entered into their composition. + </p> + <p> + We have had incessant rains since your departure. These make me fear for + your health, as well as that you had an uncomfortable journey. The same + cause has prevented me from being able to give you any account of your + friends here. This voyage to Fontainebleau will probably send the Count de + Moutier and the Marquis de Brehan to America. Danquerville promised to + visit me, but has not done it as yet. De la Tude comes sometimes to take + family soup with me, and entertains me with anecdotes of his five and + thirty years’ imprisonment. How fertile is the mind of man, which can make + the Bastille and dungeon of Vincennes yield interesting anecdotes! You + know this was for making four verses on Madame de Pompadour. But I think + you told me you did not know the verses. They were these. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ‘Sans esprit, sans sentiment, + Sans etre belle, ni neuve, + En France on peut avoir le premier amant: + Pompadour en est Tepreuve.’ +</pre> + <p> + I have read the memoir of his three escapes. As to myself, my health is + good, except my wrist, which mends slowly, and my mind, which mends not at + all, but broods constantly over your departure. The lateness of the season + obliges me to decline my journey into the south of France. Present me in + the most friendly terms to Mr. Cosway, and receive me into your own + recollection with a partiality and warmth, proportioned not to my own poor + merit, but to the sentiments of sincere affection and esteem, with which I + have the honor to be, my Dear Madam, + </p> + <p> + Your most obedient, humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0029" id="link2H_4_0029"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XXIX.—TO MRS. COSWAY, October 13, 1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO MRS. COSWAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, October 13, 1786. + </p> + <p> + My Dear Madam, + </p> + <p> + Just as I had sealed the enclosed, I received a letter of a good length, + dated Antwerp, with your name at the bottom. I prepared myself for a + feast. I read two or three sentences: looked again at the signature, to + see if I had not mistaken it. It was visibly yours. Read a sentence or two + more. Diable! Spelt your name distinctly. There was not a letter of it + omitted. Began to read again. In fine, after reading a little, and + examining the signature alternately, half a dozen times, I found that your + name was to four lines only, instead of four pages. I thank you for the + four lines, however, because they prove you think of me; little, indeed, + but better little than none. To show how much I think of you, I send you + the enclosed letter of three sheets of paper, being a history of the + evening I parted with you. But how expect you should read a letter of + three mortal sheets of paper? I will tell you. Divide it into six doses of + half a sheet each, and every day, when the toilette begins, take a dose, + that is to say, read half a sheet. By this means, it will have the only + merit its length and dulness can aspire to, that of assisting your + coiffeuse to procure you six good naps of sleep. I will even allow you + twelve days to get through it, holding you rigorously to one condition + only, that is, that at whatever hour you receive this, you do not break + the seal of the enclosed till the next toilette. Of this injunction I + require a sacred execution. I rest it on your friendship, and that in your + first letter, you tell me honestly, whether you have honestly performed + it. I send you the song I promised. Bring me in return the subject, <i>Jours + heureux!</i> Were I a songster, I should sing it all to these words; ‘<i>Dans + ces lieux qu’elle tarde Ă se rendre!</i>’ Learn it, I pray you, and sing + it with feeling. My right hand presents its devoirs to you, and sees with + great indignation the left supplanting it in a correspondence so much + valued. You will know the first moment it can resume its rights. The first + exercise of them shall be addressed to you, as you had the first essay of + its rival. It will yet, however, be many a day. Present my esteem to Mr. + Cosway, and believe me to be yours very affectionately, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0030" id="link2H_4_0030"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XXX.—M. LE ROY DE L’ACADEMIE DES SCIENCES, November 13, 1786 + </h2> + <p> + M. LE ROY DE L’ACADEMIE DES SCIENCES. + </p> + <p> + Paris, November 13, 1786. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I received the honor of yours of September the 18th, a day or two after + the accident of a dislocated wrist had disabled me from writing. I have + waited thus long in constant hope of recovering its use. But finding that + this hope walks before me like my shadow, I can no longer oppose the + desire and duty of answering your polite and learned letter. I therefore + employ my left hand in the office of scribe, which it performs indeed + slowly, awkwardly, and badly. + </p> + <p> + The information given by me to the Marquis de Chastellux, and alluded to + in his book and in your letter, was, that the sea breezes which prevail in + the lower parts of Virginia, during the summer months, and in the warm + parts of-the day, had made a sensible progress into the interior country: + that formerly, within the memory of persons living, they extended but + little above Williamsburg; that afterwards they became sensible as high as + Richmond; and that, at present, they penetrate sometimes as far as the + first mountains, which are above an hundred miles further from the sea + coast, than Williamsburg is. It is very rare, indeed, that they reach + those mountains, and not till the afternoon is considerably advanced. A + light northwesterly breeze is, for the most part, felt there, while an + easterly or northeasterly wind is blowing strongly in the lower country. + How far northward and southward of Virginia, this easterly breeze Takes + place, I am not informed. I must, therefore, be understood as speaking of + that State only, which extends on the sea coast from 36 1/2 to 38° of + latitude. + </p> + <p> + This is the fact. We know too little of the operations of nature in the + physical world, to assign causes with any degree of confidence. Willing + always, however, to guess at what we do not know, I have sometimes + indulged myself with conjectures on the causes of the phenomena above + stated. I will hazard them on paper, for your amusement, premising for + their foundation some principles believed to be true. + </p> + <p> + Air resting on a heated and reflecting surface, becomes warmer, rarer, and + lighter: it ascends therefore, and the circumjacent air, which is colder + and heavier, flows into its place, becomes warmed and lightened in its + turn, ascends, and is succeeded as that which went before. If the heated + surface be circular, the air flows to it from every quarter, like the rays + of a circle to its centre. If it be a zone of determinate breadth and + indefinite length, the air will flow from each side perpendicularly on it. + If the currents of air flowing from opposite sides, be of equal force, + they will meet in equilibrio, at a line drawn longitudinally through the + middle of the zone. If one current be stronger than the other, the + stronger one will force back the line of equilibrium, towards the further + edge of the zone, or even beyond it: the motion it has acquired causing it + to overshoot the zone, as the motion acquired by a pendulum in its + descent, causes it to vibrate beyond the point of its lowest descent. + </p> + <p> + Earth, exposed naked to the sun’s rays, absorbs a good portion of them; + but, being an opaque body, those rays penetrate to a small depth only. Its + surface, by this accumulation of absorbed rays, becomes considerably + heated. The residue of the rays are reflected into the air resting on that + surface. This air, then, is warmed, 1. by the direct rays of the sun; 2. + by its reflected rays; 3. by contact with the heated surface. A forest + receiving the sun’s rays, a part of them enters the intervals between the + trees, and their reflection upwards is intercepted by the leaves and + boughs. The rest fall on the trees, the leaves of which being generally + inclined towards the horizon, reflect the rays downwards. The atmosphere + here, then, receives little or no heat by reflection. Again, these leaves + having a power of keeping themselves cool by their own transpiration, they + impart no heat to the air by contact. Reflection and contact, then, two of + the three modes before-mentioned, of communicating heat, are wanting here; + and, of course, the air over a country covered by forest must be colder + than that over cultivated grounds. + </p> + <p> + The sea being pellucid, the sun’s rays penetrate it to a considerable + depth. Being also fluid, and in perpetual agitation, its parts are + constantly mixed together; so that instead of its heat being all + accumulated in its surface, as in the case of a solid, opaque body, it is + diffused through its whole mass. Its surface, therefore, is comparatively + cool, for these reasons; to which may be added that of evaporation. The + small degree of reflection which might otherwise take place, is generally + prevented by the rippled state of its surface. The air resting on the sea, + then, like that resting on a forest, receives little or no heat by + reflection or contact; and is therefore colder than that which lies over a + cultivated country. + </p> + <p> + To apply these observations to the phenomena under consideration. The + first settlements of Virginia were made along the sea coast, bearing from + the south, towards the north, a little eastwardly. These settlements + formed a zone, in which, though every point was not cleared of its forest, + yet a good proportion was cleared and cultivated. The cultivated earth, as + the sun advances above the horizon in the morning, acquires from it an + intense heat, which is retained and increased through the warm parts of + the day. The air resting on it becomes warm in proportion, and rises. On + one side is a country still covered with forest: on the other is the + ocean. The colder air from both of these, then rushes towards the heated + zone, to supply the place left vacant there by the ascent of its warm air. + The breeze from the west is light and feeble; because it traverses a + country covered with mountains and forests, which retard its current. That + from the east is strong; as passing over the ocean, wherein there is no + obstacle to its motion. It is probable, therefore, that this easterly + breeze forces itself far into, or perhaps beyond, the zone which produces + it. This zone is, by the increase of population, continually widening into + the interior country. The line of equilibrium between the easterly and + westerly breezes is, therefore, progressive. + </p> + <p> + Did no foreign causes intervene, the sea breezes would be a little + southwardly of the east, that direction being perpendicular to our coast. + But within the tropics, there are winds which blow continually and + strongly from the east. This current affects the course of the air, even + without the tropics. The same cause, too, which produces a strong motion + of the air, from east to west, between the tropics, to wit, the sun, + exercises its influence without those limits, but more feebly, in + proportion as the surface of the globe is there more obliquely presented + to its rays. This effect, though not great, is not to be neglected when + the sun is in or near our summer solstice, which is the season of these + easterly breezes. The northern air, too, flowing towards the equatorial + parts, to supply the vacuum made there by the ascent of their heated air, + has only the small rotary motion of the polar latitudes from which it + comes. Nor does it suddenly acquire the swifter rotation of the parts into + which it enters. This gives it the effect of a motion opposed to that of + the earth, that is to say, of an easterly one. And all these causes + together are known to produce currents of air in the Atlantic, varying + from east to northeast, as far as the fortieth degree of latitude. It is + this current which presses our sea breeze out of its natural southeasterly + direction, to an easterly, and sometimes almost a northeasterly one. + </p> + <p> + We are led naturally to ask, where the progress of our sea breezes will + ultimately be stopped? No confidence can be placed in any answer to this + question. If they should ever pass the mountainous country which separates + the waters of the ocean from those of the Mississippi, there may be + circumstances which might aid their further progress, as far as the + Mississippi. That mountainous country commences about two hundred miles + from the sea coast, and consists of successive ranges passing from + northeast to southwest, and rising the one above the other to the Allegany + Ridge, which is the highest of all. From that, lower and lower ridges + succeed one another again, till having covered, in the whole, a breadth of + two hundred miles from southeast to northwest, they subside into a plain, + fertile country, extending four hundred miles to the Mississippi, and + probably much further on the other side, towards the heads of the western + waters. When this country shall become cultivated, it will, for the + reasons before explained, draw to it winds from the east and west. In this + case, should the sea breezes pass the intermediate mountains, they will + rather be aided than opposed in their further progress to the Mississippi. + There are circumstances, however, which render it possible that they may + not be able to pass those intermediate mountains. 1. These mountains + constitute the highest lands within the United States. The air on them + must consequently be very cold and heavy, and have a tendency to flow both + to the east and west. 2. Ranging across the current of the sea breezes, + they are in themselves, so many successive barriers opposed to their + progress. 3. The country they occupy is covered with trees, which assist + to weaken and spend the force of the breezes. 4. It will remain so + covered; a very small proportion of it being capable of culture. 5. The + temperature of its air, then, will never be softened by culture. + </p> + <p> + Whether in the plain country between the Mississippi and Allegany + mountains, easterly or westerly winds prevail at present, I am not + informed. I conjecture, however, that they must be westerly: and I think + with you, Sir, that if those mountains were to subside into plain country, + as their opposition to the westerly winds would then be removed, they + would repress more powerfully those from the east, and of course would + remove the line of equilibrium nearer to the sea coast for the present. + </p> + <p> + Having had occasion to mention the course of the tropical winds from east + to west, I will add some observations connected with them. They are known + to occasion a strong current in the ocean, in the same direction. This + current breaks on that wedge of land of which Saint Roque is the point; + the southern column of it probably turning off and washing the coast of + Brazil. I say probably, because I have never heard the fact, and + conjecture it from reason only. The northern column, having its western + motion diverted towards the north, and reinforced by the currents of the + great rivers Orinoko, Amazons, and Tocantin, has probably been the agent + which formed the Gulf of Mexico, cutting the American continent nearly in + two, in that part. It re-issues into the ocean at the northern end of the + Gulf, and passes by the name of the Gulf Stream, all along the coast of + the United States, to its northern extremity. There it turns off + eastwardly, having formed by its eddy, at this turn, the Banks of + Newfoundland. Through the whole of its course, from the Gulf to the Banks, + it retains a very sensible warmth. The Spaniards are, at this time, + desirous of trading to their Philippine Islands, by the way of the Cape of + Good Hope: but opposed in it by the Dutch, under authority of the treaty + of Munster, they are examining the practicability of a common passage + through the Straits of Magellan, or round Cape Horn. Were they to make an + opening through the Isthmus of Panama, a work much less difficult than + some even of the inferior canals of France, however small this opening + should be in the beginning, the tropical current entering it with all its + force, would soon widen it sufficiently for its own passage, and thus + complete in a short time, that work which otherwise will still employ it + for ages. Less country, too, would be destroyed by it in this way. These + consequences would follow. 1. Vessels from Europe or the western coast of + Africa, by entering the tropics, would have a steady wind and tide to + carry them through the Atlantic, through America and the Pacific ocean, to + every part of the Asiatic coast, and of the eastern coast of Africa: thus + performing with speed and safety the tour of the whole globe, to within + about twenty-four degrees of longitude, or one fifteenth part of its + circumference; the African continent, under the line, occupying about that + space. 2. The Gulf of Mexico, now the most dangerous navigation in the + world on account of its currents and moveable sands, would become stagnant + and safe. 3. The Gulf Stream on the coast of the United States would + cease, and with that, those derangements of course and reckoning, which + now impede and endanger the intercourse with those States. 4. The fogs on + the Banks of Newfoundland,* supposed to be the vapors of the Gulf Stream + rendered turbid by cold air, would disappear. 5. Those Banks ceasing to + receive supplies of sand, weeds, and warm water, by the Gulf Stream, it + might become problematical what effect changes of pasture and temperatures + would have on the fisheries. However it is time to relieve you from this + long lecture. I wish its subject may have been sufficiently interesting to + make amends for its details. These are submitted with entire deference to + your better judgment. I will only add to them, by assuring you of the + sentiments of perfect esteem and respect, with which I have the honor to + be, Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [* This ingenious and probable conjecture, I found in a + letter from Dr. Franklin to yourself, published in the late + volume of the American Philosophical Transactions.] +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0031" id="link2H_4_0031"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XXXI.—TO GENERAL WASHINGTON, November 14, 1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. + </p> + <p> + Paris, November 14, 1786. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + The house of Le Coulteux, which for some centuries has been the wealthiest + of this place, has it in contemplation to establish a great company for + the fur trade. They propose that partners interested one half in the + establishment, should be American citizens, born and residing in the + United States. Yet if I understood them rightly, they expect that the half + of the company which resides here, should make the greatest part, or + perhaps the whole of the advances, while those on our side the water + should superintend the details. They had, at first, thought of Baltimore + as the centre of their American transactions. I have pointed out to them + the advantages of Alexandria for this purpose. They have concluded to take + information as to Baltimore, Philadelphia, and New York, for a principal + deposit, and having no correspondent at Alexandria, have asked me to + procure a state of the advantages of that place, as also to get a + recommendation of the best merchant there, to be adopted as partner and + head of the business there. Skill, punctuality, and integrity are the + requisites in such a character. They will decide on their whole + information, as to the place for their principal factory. Being unwilling + that Alexandria should lose its pretensions, I have undertaken to procure + them information as to that place. If they undertake this trade at all, it + will be on so great a scale as to decide the current of the Indian-trade + to the place they adopt. I have no acquaintance at Alexandria or in its + neighborhood; but believing you would feel an interest in the matter, from + the same motives which I do, I venture to ask the favor of you to + recommend to me a proper merchant for their purpose, and to engage some + well informed person to send me a representation of the advantages of + Alexandria, as the principal deposit of the fur trade. + </p> + <p> + The author of the political part of the <i>EncyclopĂ©die MĂ©thodique</i> + desired me to examine his article, <i>Etats Unis</i>. I did so. I found it + a tissue of errors; for in truth they know nothing about us here. + Particularly, however, the article Cincinnati was a mere philippic against + that institution: in which it appeared that there was an utter ignorance + of facts and motives. I gave him notes on it. He reformed it, as he + supposed, and sent it again to me to revise. In this reformed state, + Colonel Humphreys saw it. + </p> + <p> + I found it necessary to write that article for him. Before I gave it to + him, I showed it to the Marquis de la Fayette, who made a correction or + two. I then sent it to the author. He used the materials, mixing a great + deal of his own with them. In a work which is sure of going down to the + latest posterity, I thought it material to set facts to rights, as much as + possible. The author was well disposed; but could not entirely get the + better of his original bias. I send you the article as ultimately + published. If you find any material errors in it, and will be so good as + to inform me of them, I shall probably have opportunities of setting this + author to rights. What has heretofore passed between us on this + institution, makes it my duty to mention to you, that I have never heard a + person in Europe, learned or unlearned, express his thoughts on this + institution, who did not consider it as dishonorable and destructive to + our governments; and that every writing which has come out since my + arrival here, in which it is mentioned, considers it, even as now + reformed, as the germ whose developement is one day to destroy the fabric + we have reared. I did not apprehend this, while I had American ideas only. + But I confess that what I have seen in Europe, has brought me over to that + opinion; and that though the day may be at some distance, beyond the reach + of our lives perhaps, yet it will certainly come, when a single fibre left + of this institution will produce an hereditary aristocracy, which will + change the form of our governments from the best to the worst in the + world. To know the mass of evil which flows from this fatal source, a + person must be in France; he must see the finest soil, the finest climate, + the most compact state, the most benevolent character of people, and every + earthly advantage combined, insufficient to prevent this scourge from + rendering existence a curse to twenty-four out of twenty-five parts of the + inhabitants of this country. With us, the branches of this institution + cover all the states. The southern ones, at this time, are aristocratical + in their dispositions: and that that spirit should grow and extend itself, + is within the natural order of things. I do not flatter myself with the + immortality of our governments: but I shall think little also of their + longevity, unless this germ of destruction be taken out. When the society + themselves shall weigh the possibility of evil, against the impossibility + of any good to proceed from this institution, I cannot help hoping they + will eradicate it. I know they wish the permanence of our governments, as + much as any individuals composing them. + </p> + <p> + An interruption here, and the departure of the gentleman by whom I send + this, oblige me to conclude it with assurances of the sincere respect and + esteem, with which I have the honor to be, Dear Sir, your most obedient + and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0032" id="link2H_4_0032"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XXXII.—TO JAMES MADISON, December 16, 1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO JAMES MADISON. + </p> + <p> + Paris, December 16, 1786. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + After a very long silence, I am at length able to write to you. An unlucky + dislocation of my right wrist has disabled me from using that hand, three + months. I now begin to use it a little, but with great pain; so that this + letter must be taken up at such intervals as the state of my hand will + permit, and will probably be the work of some days. Though the joint seems + to be well set, the swelling does not abate, nor the use of it return. I + am now, therefore, on the point of setting out, to the south of France, to + try the use of some mineral waters there, by immersion. This journey will + be of two or three months. + </p> + <p> + I enclose you herein a copy of the letter from the minister of finance to + me, making several advantageous regulations for our commerce. The + obtaining this has occupied us a twelvemonth. I say us, because I find the + Marquis de la Fayette so useful an auxiliary, that acknowledgements for + his co-operation are always due. There remains still something to do for + the articles of rice, turpentine, and ship duties. What can be done for + tobacco when the late regulation expires, is very uncertain. The commerce + between the United States and this country being put on a good footing, we + may afterwards proceed to try if any thing can be done to favor our + intercourse with her colonies. Admission into them for our fish and flour, + is very desirable: but, unfortunately, both those articles would raise a + competition against their own. + </p> + <p> + I find by the public papers, that your commercial convention failed in + point of representation. If it should produce a full meeting in May, and a + broader reformation, it will still be well. To make us one nation as to + foreign concerns, and keep us distinct in domestic ones, gives the outline + of the proper division of powers between the general and particular + governments. But to enable the federal head to exercise the powers given + it, to best advantage, it should be organized, as the particular ones are, + into legislative, executive, and judiciary. The first and last are already + separated. The second should be. When last with Congress, I often proposed + to members to do this, by making of the committee of the States an + executive committee during the recess of Congress, and during its sessions + to appoint a committee to receive and despatch all executive business, so + that Congress itself should meddle only with what should be legislative. + But I question if any Congress (much less all successively) can have + self-denial enough to go, through with this distribution. The + distribution, then, should be imposed on them. I find Congress have + reversed their division of the western States, and proposed to make them + fewer and larger. This is reversing the natural order of things. A + tractable people may be governed in large bodies: but in proportion as + they depart from this character, the extent of their government must be + less. We see into what small divisions the Indians are obliged to reduce + their societies. This measure, with the disposition to shut up the + Mississippi, gives me serious apprehensions of the severance of the + eastern and western parts of our confederacy. It might have been made the + interest of the western States to remain united with us, by managing their + interests honestly, and for their own good. But the moment we sacrifice + their interests to our own, they will see it better to govern themselves. + The moment they resolve to do this, the point is settled. A forced + connection is neither our interest, nor within our power. The Virginia act + for religious freedom has been received with infinite approbation in + Europe, and propagated with enthusiasm. I do not mean by the governments, + but by the individuals who compose them. It has been translated into + French and Italian, has been sent to most of the courts of Europe, and has + been the best evidence of the falsehood of those reports, which stated us + to be in anarchy. It is inserted in the new <i>EncyclopĂ©die</i>, and is + appearing in most of the publications respecting America. In fact, it is + comfortable to see the standard of reason at length erected, after so many + ages, during which the human mind has been held in vassalage by kings, + priests, and nobles: and it is honorable for us to have produced the first + legislature who had the courage to declare, that the reason of man may be + trusted with the formation of his own opinions. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + I thank you for your communications in Natural History. The several + instances of trees, &c. found far below the surface of the earth, as + in the case of Mr. Hay’s well, seem to set the reason of man at defiance. + </p> + <p> + I am, Dear Sir, with sincere esteem, your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0033" id="link2H_4_0033"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XXXIII.—TO CHARLES THOMSON, December 17,1780 + </h2> + <p> + TO CHARLES THOMSON. + </p> + <p> + Paris, December 17,1780. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + A dislocation of my right wrist has for three months past disabled me from + writing, except with my left hand, which was too slow and awkward to be + employed often. I begin to have so much use of my wrist as to be able to + write, but it is slowly, and in pain. I take the first moment I can, + however, to acknowledge the receipt of your letters of April the 6th, July + the 8th and 30th. In one of these, you say you have not been able to + learn, whether, in the new mills in London, steam is the immediate mover + of the machinery, or raises water to move it. It is the immediate mover. + The power of this agent, though long known, is but now beginning to be + applied to the various purposes of which it is susceptible. You observe, + that Whitehurst supposes it to have been the agent, which bursting the + earth, threw it up into mountains and vallies. You ask me what I think of + this book. I find in it many interesting facts brought together, and many + ingenious commentaries on them. But there are great chasms in his facts, + and consequently in his reasoning, These he fills up by suppositions, + which may be as reasonably denied as granted. A sceptical reader, + therefore, like myself, is left in the lurch. I acknowledge, however, he + makes more use of fact, than any other writer on a theory of the earth. + But I give one answer to all these theorists. That is as follows. They all + suppose the earth a created existence. They must suppose a creator then; + and that he possessed power and wisdom to a great degree. As he intended + the earth for the habitation of animals and vegetables, is it reasonable + to suppose, he made two jobs of his creation, that he first made a chaotic + lump, and set it into rotatory motion, and then waited the millions of + ages necessary to form itself? That when it had done this, he stepped in a + second time, to create the animals and plants which were to inhabit it? As + the hand of a creator is to be called in, it may as well be called in at + one stage of the process as another. We may as well suppose he created the + earth at once, nearly in the state in which we see it, fit for the + preservation of the beings he placed on it. But it is said, we have a + proof that he did not create it in its present solid form, but in a state + of fluidity: because its present shape of an oblate spheroid is precisely + that, which a fluid mass revolving on its axis would assume. + </p> + <p> + I suppose, that the same equilibrium between gravity and centrifugal + force, which would determine a fluid mass into the form of an oblate + spheroid, would determine the wise creator of that mass, if he made it in + a solid state, to give it the same spheroidical form. A revolving fluid + will continue to change its shape, till it attains that in which its + principles of contrary motion are balanced. For if you suppose them not + balanced, it will change its form. Now the same balanced form is necessary + for the preservation of a revolving solid. The creator, therefore, of a + revolving solid, would make it an oblate spheroid, that figure alone + admitting a perfect equilibrium. He would make it in that form, for + another reason; that is, to prevent a shifting of the axis of rotation. + Had he created the earth perfectly spherical, its axis might have been + perpetually shifting, by the influence of the other bodies of the system; + and by placing the inhabitants of the earth successively under its poles, + it might have been depopulated; whereas, being spheroidical, it has but + one axis on which it can revolve in equilibrio. Suppose the axis of the + earth to shift forty-five degrees; then cut it into one hundred and eighty + slices, making every section in the plane of a circle of latitude, + perpendicular to the axis: every one of these slices, except the + equatorial one, would be unbalanced, as there would be more matter on one + side of its axis than on the other. There could be but one diameter drawn + through such a slice, which would divide it into two equal parts. On every + other possible diameter, the parts would hang unequal. This would produce + an irregularity in the diurnal rotation. We may, therefore, conclude it + impossible for the poles of the earth to shift, if it was made + spheroidical; and that it would be made spheroidical, though solid, to + obtain this end. I use this reasoning only on the supposition, that the + earth has had a beginning. I am sure I shall read your conjectures on this + subject with great pleasure, though I bespeak beforehand, a right to + indulge my natural incredulity and scepticism. The pain in which I write, + awakens me here from my reverie, and obliges me to conclude with + compliments to Mrs. Thomson, and assurances to yourself of the esteem and + affection with which I am sincerely, Dear Sir, your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + P. S. Since writing the preceding, I have had a conversation on the + subject of the steam-mills, with the famous Boulton, to whom those of + London belong, and who is here at this time. He compares the effect of + steam with that of horses, in the following manner. Six horses, aided with + the most advantageous combination of the mechanical powers hitherto tried, + will grind six bushels of flour in an hour; at the end of which time they + are all in a foam, and must rest. They can work thus six hours in the + twenty-four, grinding thirty-six bushels of flour, which is six to each + horse, for the twenty-four hours. His steam-mill in London consumes one + hundred and twenty bushels of coal in twenty-four hours, turns ten pair of + stones, which grind eight bushels of flour an hour each, which is nineteen + hundred and twenty bushels in the twenty-four hours. This makes a peck and + a half of coal perform exactly as much as a horse in one day can perform. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0034" id="link2H_4_0034"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XXXIV.—TO COLONEL MONROE, December 18, 1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO COLONEL MONROE. + </p> + <p> + Paris, December 18, 1786. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Your letters of August the 19th and October the 12th have come duly to + hand. My last to you was of the 11th of August. Soon after that date I got + my right wrist dislocated, which has till now deprived me of the use of + that hand; and even now I can use it but slowly, and with pain. The + revisal of the Congressional intelligence contained in your letters, makes + me regret the loss of it on your departure. I feel, too, the want of a + person there to whose discretion I can trust confidential communications, + and on whose friendship I can rely against the unjust designs of + malevolence. I have no reason to suppose I have enemies in Congress; yet + it is too possible, to be without that fear. Some symptoms make me + suspect, that my proceedings to redress the abusive administration of + tobacco by the Farmers General have indisposed towards me a powerful + person in Philadelphia, who was profiting from that abuse. An expression + in the enclosed letter of M. de Calonne, would seem to imply, that I had + asked the abolition of Mr. Morris’s contract. I never did. On the + contrary, I always observed to them, that it would be unjust to annul that + contract. I was led to this, by principles both of justice and interest. + Of interest, because that contract would keep up the price of tobacco here + to thirty-four, thirty-six, and thirty-eight livres, from which it will + fall when it shall no longer have that support. However, I have done what + was right, and I will not so far wound my privilege of doing that, without + regard to any man’s interest, as to enter into any explanations of this + paragraph with him. Yet I esteem him highly, and suppose that hitherto he + had esteemed me. You will see by Calonne’s letter, that we are doing what + we can to get the trade of the United States put on a good footing. I am + now about setting out on a journey to the south of France, one object of + which is to try the mineral waters there for the restoration of my hand; + but another is, to visit all the seaports where we have trade, and to hunt + up all the inconveniences under which it labors, in order to get them + rectified. I shall visit, and carefully examine too, the canal of + Languedoc. On my return, which will be early in the spring, I shall send + you several <i>livraisons</i> of the <i>EncyclopĂ©die</i>, and the plan of + your house. I wish to Heaven, you may continue in the disposition to fix + it in Albemarle. Short will establish himself there, and perhaps Madison + may be tempted to do so. This will be society enough, and it will be the + great sweetener of our lives. Without society, and a society to our taste, + men are never contented. The one here supposed, we can regulate to our + minds, and we may extend our regulations to the sumptuary department, so + as to set a good example to a country which needs it, and to preserve our + own happiness clear of embarrassment. You wish not to engage in the + drudgery of the bar. You have two asylums from that. Either to accept a + seat in the Council, or in the judiciary department. The latter, however, + would require a little previous drudgery at the bar, to qualify you to + discharge your duty with satisfaction to yourself. Neither of these would + be inconsistent with a continued residence in Albemarle. It is but twelve + hours drive in a sulky from Charlottesville to Richmond, keeping a fresh + horse always at the half-way, which would be a small annual expense. I am + in hopes, that Mrs. M. will have in her domestic cares occupation and + pleasure sufficient to fill her time, and insure her against the <i>tedium + vitæ</i>: that she will find, that the distractions of a town, and the + waste of life under these, can bear no comparison with the tranquil + happiness of domestic life. If her own experience has not yet taught her + this truth, she has in its favor the testimony of one, who has gone + through the various scenes of business, of bustle, of office, of rambling, + and of quiet retirement, and who can assure her, that the latter is the + only point upon which the mind can settle at rest. Though not clear of + inquietudes, because no earthly situation is so, they are fewer in number, + and mixed with more objects of contentment, than in any other mode of + life. But I must not philosophize too much with her, lest I give her too + serious apprehensions of a friendship I shall impose on her. I am with + very great esteem, Dear Sir, your sincere friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0035" id="link2H_4_0035"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XXXV.—TO MR. CARMICHAEL, December 26,1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO MR. CARMICHAEL. + </p> + <p> + Paris, December 26,1786. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + A note from me of the 22nd of September apprized you it would be some time + before I should be able to answer your letters. I did not then expect it + would have been so long. + </p> + <p> + I enclose herein a resolution of Congress recalling Mr. Lambe, which I + will beg the favor of you to have delivered him. I have written to Mr. + Adams on the subject of directing him to settle with Mr. Barclay, and + attend his answer. In the mean time, I am not without hopes Mr. Barclay + has done the business. I send also a note desiring Mr. Lambe to deliver + you his cipher: and a copy of a letter from the minister of finance here + to me, announcing several regulations in favor of our commerce. + </p> + <p> + My Notes on Virginia, having been hastily written, need abundance of + corrections. Two or three of these are so material, that I am reprinting a + few leaves to substitute for the old. As soon as these shall be ready, I + will beg your acceptance of a copy. I shall be proud to be permitted to + send a copy also to the Count de Campomanes, as a tribute to his science + and his virtues. You will find in them, that the Natural Bridge has found + an admirer in me also. I should be happy to make with you the tour of the + curiosities you will find therein mentioned. That kind of pleasure + surpasses much, in my estimation, whatever I find on this side the + Atlantic. I sometimes think of building a little hermitage at the Natural + Bridge (for it is my property), and of passing there a part of the year at + least. + </p> + <p> + I have received American papers to the 1st of November. Some tumultuous + meetings of the people have taken place in the eastern States; i.e. one in + Massachusetts, one in Connecticut, and one in New Hampshire. Their + principal demand was a respite in the judiciary proceedings. No injury was + done, however, in a single instance, to the person or property of any one, + nor did the tumult continue twenty-four hours in any one instance. In + Massachusetts this was owing to the discretion which the malcontents still + preserved; in Connecticut and New Hampshire the body of the people rose in + support of government, and obliged the malcontents to go to their homes. + In the last mentioned State they seized about forty, who were in jail for + trial. It is believed this incident will strengthen our government. Those + people are not entirely without excuse. Before the war these States + depended on their whale-oil and fish. The former was consumed in England, + and much of the latter in the Mediterranean. The heavy duties on American + whale-oil, now required in England, exclude it from that market: and the + Algerines exclude them from bringing their fish into the Mediterranean. + France is opening her ports for their oil, but in the mean while their + ancient debts are pressing them, and they have nothing to pay with. The + Massachusetts Assembly, too, in their zeal for paying their public debt, + had laid a tax too heavy to be paid, in the circumstances of their State. + The Indians seem disposed, too, to make war on us. These complicated + causes determined Congress to increase their forces to two thousand men. + The latter was the sole object avowed, yet the former entered for + something into the measure. However, I am satisfied the good sense of the + people is the strongest army our governments can ever have, and that it + will not fail them. The commercial convention at Annapolis was not full + enough to do business. They found, too, their appointments too narrow, + being confined to the article of commerce. They have proposed a meeting at + Philadelphia in May, and that it may be authorized to propose amendments + of whatever is defective in the federal constitution. + </p> + <p> + When I was in England, I formed a portable copying press, on the + principles of the large one they make there, for copying letters. I had a + model made there, and it has answered perfectly. A workman here has made + several from that model. The itinerant temper of your court will, I think, + render one of these useful to you. You must, therefore, do me the favor to + accept of one. I have it now in readiness, and shall send it by the way of + Bayonne, to the care of Mr. Alexander there, unless Don Miguel de + Lardi-zabal can carry it with him. + </p> + <p> + My hand admonishes me it is time to stop, and that I must defer writing to + Mr. Barclay till to-morrow. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the highest esteem and respect, + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, your most obedient + </p> + <p> + and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0036" id="link2H_4_0036"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XXXVI.—TO MR. VAUGHAN, December 29, 1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO MR. VAUGHAN. + </p> + <p> + Paris, December 29, 1786. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + When I had the honor of seeing you in London, you were so kind as to + permit me to trouble you, sometimes with my letters, and particularly on + the subject of mathematical or philosophical instruments. Such a + correspondence will be too agreeable to me, and at the same time too + useful, not to avail myself of your permission. It has been an opinion + pretty generally received among philosophers, that the atmosphere of + America is more humid than that of Europe. Monsieur de Buffon makes this + hypothesis one of the two pillars whereon he builds his system of the + degeneracy of animals in America. Having had occasion to controvert this + opinion of his, as to the degeneracy of animals there, I expressed a doubt + of the fact assumed, that our climates are more moist. I did not know of + any experiments, which might authorize a denial of it. Speaking afterwards + on the subject with Dr. Franklin, he mentioned to me the observations he + had made on a case of magnets, made for him by Mr. Nairne in London. Of + these you will see a detail in the second volume of the American + Philosophical Transactions, in a letter from Dr. Franklin to Mr. Nairne, + wherein he recommends to him to take up the principle therein explained, + and endeavor to make an hygrometer, which, taking slowly the temperature + of the atmosphere, shall give its mean degree of moisture, and enable us + thus to make with more certainty a comparison between the humidities of + different climates. May I presume to trouble you with an inquiry of Mr. + Nairne, whether he has executed the Doctor’s idea; and if he has, to get + him to make for me a couple of the instruments he may have contrived. They + should be made of the same piece, and under like circumstances, that + sending one to America, I may rely on its indications there, compared with + those of the one I shall retain here. Being in want of a set of magnets + also, I would be glad if he would at the same time send me a set, the case + of which should be made as Dr. Franklin describes his to have been, so + that I may repeat his experiment. Colonel Smith will do me the favor to + receive these things from Mr. Nairne, and to pay him for them. + </p> + <p> + I think Mr. Rittenhouse never published an invention of his in this way, + which was a very good one. It was of an hygrometer, which, like the common + ones, was to give the actual moisture of the air. He has two slips of + mahogany about five inches long, three fourths of an inch broad, and one + tenth of an inch thick, the one having the grain running lengthwise, and + the other crosswise. These are glued together by their faces, so as to + form a piece five inches long, three fourths of an inch broad, and one + third of an inch thick, which is stuck by its lower end into a little + plinth of wood, presenting their edge to the view. The fibres of the wood + you know are dilated, but not lengthened by moisture. The slip, therefore, + whose grain is lengthwise, becomes a standard, retaining always the same + precise length. That which has its grain crosswise, dilates with moisture, + and contracts for the want of it. If the right hand piece be the + cross-grained one, when the air is very moist, it lengthens, and forces + its companion to form a kind of interior annulus of a circle on the left. + When the air is dry, it contracts, draws its companion to the right, and + becomes itself the interior annulus. In order to show this dilation and + contraction, an index is fixed on the upper end of the two slips; a plate + of metal or wood is fastened to the front of the plinth, so as to cover + the two slips from the eye. A slit, being nearly the portion of a circle, + is cut in this plate, so that the shank of the index may play freely + through its whole range. On the edge of the slit is a graduation. The + objection to this instrument is, that it is not fit for comparative + observations, because no two pieces of wood being of the same texture + exactly, no two will yield exactly alike to the same agent. However, it is + less objectionable on this account, than most of the substances used. Mr. + Rittenhouse had a thought of trying ivory: but I do not know whether he + executed it. All these substances not only vary from one another at the + same time, but from themselves at different times. All of them, however, + have some peculiar advantages, and I think this, on the whole, appeared + preferable to any other I had ever seen. Not knowing whether you had heard + of this instrument, and supposing it would amuse you, I have taken the + liberty of detailing it to you. + </p> + <p> + I beg you to be assured of the sentiments of perfect esteem and respect + with which I have the honor to be, Sir, your most obedient + </p> + <p> + and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0037" id="link2H_4_0037"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XXXVII.—TO JOHN JAY, December 31, 1786 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, December 31, 1786 + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I had the honor of addressing you on the 12th of the last month; since + which your favor of October the 12th has been received, enclosing a copy + of the resolution of Congress for recalling Mr. Lambe. My letter by Mr. + Randall informed you, that we had put an end to his powers, and required + him to repair to Congress. I lately received a letter from him, dated + Alicant, October the 10th, of which I have the honor to enclose you a + copy: by which you will perceive, that the circumstance of ill health, + either true or false, is urged for his not obeying our call. I shall + immediately forward the order of Congress. I am not without fear, that + some misapplication of the public money may enter into the causes of his + declining to return. The moment that I saw a symptom of this in his + conduct, as it was a circumstance which did not admit the delay of + consulting Mr. Adams, I wrote to Mr. Carmichael, to stop any monies which + he might have in the hands of his banker. I am still unable to judge + whether he is guilty of this or not, as by the arrangements with Mr. + Adams, who alone had done business with the bankers of the United States, + in Holland, Mr. Lambe’s drafts were to be made on him, and I know not what + their amount has been. His drafts could not have been negotiated, if made + on us both, at places so distant. Perhaps it may be thought, that the + appointment of Mr. Lambe was censurable in the moment in which it was + made. It is a piece of justice, therefore, which I owe to Mr. Adams, to + declare that the proposition went first from me to him. I take the liberty + of enclosing you a copy of my letter to Mr. Adams, of September the 24th, + 1785, in which that proposition was made. It expresses the motives + operating on my mind in that moment, as well as the cautions I thought it + necessary to take. To these must be added the difficulty of finding an + American in Europe fit for the business, and willing to undertake it. I + knew afterwards, that Dr. Bancroft (who is named in the letter) could not, + on account of his own affairs, have accepted even a primary appointment. I + think it evident, that no appointment could have succeeded without a much + greater sum of money. + </p> + <p> + I am happy to find that Mr. Barclay’s mission has been attended with + complete success. For this we are indebted, unquestionably, to the + influence and good offices of the court of Madrid. Colonel Franks, the + bearer of this, will have the honor to put into your hands the original of + the treaty, with other papers accompanying it. It will appear by these, + that Mr. Barclay has conducted himself with a degree of intelligence and + of good faith which reflects the highest honor on him. + </p> + <p> + A copy of a letter from Captain O’Bryan to Mr. Carmichael is also herewith + enclosed. The information it contains will throw farther light on the + affairs of Algiers. His observations on the difficulties which arise from + the distance of Mr. Adams and myself from that place, and from one + another, and the delays occasioned by this circumstance, are certainly + just. If Congress should propose to revive the negotiations, they will + judge whether it will not be more expedient to send a person to Algiers, + who can be trusted with full powers: and also whether a mission to + Constantinople may not be previously necessary. Before I quit this + subject, I must correct an error in the letter of Captain O’Bryan. Mr. + Lambe was not limited, as he says, to one hundred, but to two hundred + dollars apiece for our prisoners. This was the price which had been just + paid for a large number of French prisoners, and this was our guide. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with the most perfect esteem and respect, Sir, + your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0038" id="link2H_4_0038"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XXXVIII.—TO SAMUEL OSGOOD, January 5, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO SAMUEL OSGOOD. + </p> + <p> + Paris, January 5, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I am desired to forward to you the enclosed queries, and to ask the favor + of you to give such an answer to them, as may not give you too much + trouble. Those which stand foremost on the paper, can be addressed only to + your complaisance; but the last may possibly be interesting to your + department, and to the United States. I mean those which suggest the + possibility of borrowing money in Europe, the principal of which shall be + ultimately payable in land, and in the mean time, a good interest. You + know best whether the suggestion can be turned to any profit, and whether + it will be worth while to introduce any proposition to Congress thereon. + Among the possible shapes into which a matter of this kind may be formed, + the following is one. Let us suppose the public lands to be worth a + dollar, hard money, the acre. If we should ask of a monied man a loan of + one hundred dollars, payable with one hundred acres of land at the end of + ten years, and in the mean time, carrying an interest of five per cent., + this would be more disadvantageous to the lender than a common loan, + payable ultimately in cash. But if we should say, we will deliver you the + one hundred acres of land immediately, which is in fact an immediate + payment of the principal, and will nevertheless pay your interest of five + per cent., for ten years, this offers a superior advantage, and might + tempt money-holders. But what should we in fact receive, in this way, for + our lands? Thirty-seven dollars and one fourth, being left in Europe, on + an interest of five per cent., would pay annually the interest of the one + hundred dollars for ten years. There would remain then only sixty-two + dollars and three quarters, for the one hundred acres of land; that is to + say, about two thirds of its price. Congress can best determine, whether + any circumstances in our situation, should induce us to get rid of any of + our debts in that way. I beg you to understand, that I have named rates of + interest, term of payment and price of land, merely to state the case, and + without the least knowledge that a loan could be obtained on these terms. + It remains to inform you, from whom this suggestion comes. The person from + whom I receive it, is a Monsieur Claviere, connected with the monied men + of Amsterdam. He is, on behalf of a company there, actually treating with + the Comptroller General here, for the purchase of our debt to this + country, at a considerable discount. Whether he has an idea of offering a + loan to us, on terms such as I have above spoken of, I know not; nor do I + know that he is authorized to make the suggestion he has made. If the + thing should be deemed worthy the attention of Congress, they can only + consider it as a possibility, and take measures to avail themselves of it, + if the possibility turns out in their favor, and not to be disappointed if + it does not. Claviere’s proposition not being formal enough for me to make + an official communication of it, you will make what use of it you see + best. + </p> + <p> + I am, with very sincere esteem and attachment, Dear Sir, your most + obedient + </p> + <p> + and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0039" id="link2H_4_0039"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XXXIX.—TO JOHN JAY, January 9, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, January 9, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + My last, of December the 31st, acknowledged the receipt of yours of + October the 12th, as the present does those of October the 3rd, 9th, and + 27th, together with the resolution of Congress of October the 16th, on the + claim of Schweighaeuser. I will proceed in this business on the return of + Mr. Barclay, who being fully acquainted with all the circumstances, will + be enabled to give me that information, the want of which might lead me to + do wrong on the one side or the other. + </p> + <p> + Information of the signature of the treaty with Morocco has been long on + its passage to you. I will beg leave to recur to dates, that you may see + that no part of it has been derived from me. The first notice I had of it, + was in a letter from Mr. Barclay, dated, Daralbeyda, August the 11th. I + received this on the 13th of September. No secure conveyance offered till + the 26th of the same month, being thirteen days after my receipt of it. In + my letter of that date, which went by the way of London, I had the honor + to enclose you a copy of Mr. Barclay’s letter. The conveyance of the + treaty itself is suffering a delay here at present, which all my anxiety + cannot prevent. Colonel Franks’ baggage, which came by water from Cadiz to + Rouen, has been long and hourly expected. The moment it arrives, he will + set out to London, to have duplicates of the treaty signed by Mr. Adams, + and from thence he will proceed to New York. + </p> + <p> + The Chevalier del Pinto, who treated with us on behalf of Portugal, being + resident at London, I have presumed that causes of the delay of that + treaty had been made known to Mr. Adams, and by him communicated to you. I + will write to him by Colonel Franks, in order that you may be answered on + that subject. + </p> + <p> + The publication of the enclosed extract from my letter of May the 27th, + 1786, will, I fear, have very mischievous effects. It will tend to draw on + the Count de Vergennes the formidable phalanx of the Farms; to prevent his + committing himself to me in any conversation which he does not mean for + the public papers; to inspire the same diffidence into all other + ministers, with whom I might have to transact business; to defeat the + little hope, if any hope existed, of getting rid of the Farm on the + article of tobacco; and to damp that freedom of, communication which the + resolution of Congress of May the 3rd, 1784, was intended to re-establish. + Observing by the proceedings of Congress, that they are about to establish + a coinage, I think it my duty to inform them, that a Swiss, of the name of + Drost, established here, has invented a method of striking the two faces + and the edge of a coin, at one stroke. By this, and other simplifications + of the process of coinage, he is enabled to coin from twenty-five thousand + to thirty thousand pieces a day, with the assistance of only two persons, + the pieces of metal being first prepared. I send you by Colonel Franks + three coins of gold, silver, and copper, which you will perceive to be + perfect medals: and I can assure you, from having seen him coin many, that + every piece is as perfect as these. There has certainly never yet been + seen any coin, in any country, comparable to this. The best workmen in + this way acknowledge that his is like a new art. Coin should always be + made in the highest perfection possible, because it is a great guard + against the danger of false coinage. This man would be willing to furnish + his implements to Congress, and if they please, he will go over and + instruct a person to carry on the work: nor do I believe he would ask any + thing unreasonable. It would be very desirable, that in the institution of + a new coinage, we could set out on so perfect a plan as this, and the more + so, as while the work is so exquisitely done, it is done cheaper. + </p> + <p> + I will certainly do the best I can for the reformation of the consular + convention, being persuaded that our States would be very unwilling to + conform their laws either to the convention, or to the scheme. But it is + too difficult and too delicate, to form sanguine hopes. However, that + there may be room to reduce the convention, as much as circumstances will + admit, will it not be expedient for Congress to give me powers, in which + there shall be no reference to the scheme? The powers sent me, oblige me + to produce that scheme, and certainly, the moment it is produced, they + will not abate a tittle from it. If they recollect the scheme, and insist + on it, we can but conclude it; but if they have forgotten it (which may + be), and are willing to reconsider the whole subject, perhaps we may get + rid of something the more of it. As the delay is not injurious to us, + because the convention, whenever and however made, is to put us in a worse + state than we are in now, I shall venture to defer saying a word on the + subject, till I can hear from you in answer to this. The full powers may + be sufficiently guarded, by private instructions to me, not to go beyond + the former scheme. This delay may be well enough ascribed (whenever I + shall have received new powers) to a journey, I had before apprized the + minister that I should be obliged to take, to some mineral waters in the + south of France, to see if by their aid I may recover the use of my right + hand, of which a dislocation about four months ago, threatens to deprive + me in a great measure. The surgeons have long insisted on this measure. I + shall return by Bordeaux, Nantes, and L’Orient, to get the necessary + information for finishing our commercial regulations here. Permit me, + however, to ask, as immediately as possible, an answer, either affirmative + or negative, as Congress shall think best, and to ascribe the delay on + which I venture, to my desire to do what is for the best. + </p> + <p> + I send you a copy of the late marine regulations of this country. There + are things in it, which may become interesting to us. Particularly, what + relates to the establishment of a marine militia, and their + classification. + </p> + <p> + You will have seen in the public papers, that the King has called an + Assembly of the Notables of this country. This has not been done for one + hundred and sixty years past. Of course, it calls up all the attention of + the people. The objects of this Assembly are not named: several are + conjectured. The tolerating the Protestant religion; removing all the + internal Custom-houses to the frontier; equalizing the <i>gabelles</i> on + salt through the kingdom; the sale of the King’s domains, to raise money; + or, finally, the effecting this necessary end by some other means, are + talked of. But, in truth, nothing is known about it. This government + practises secrecy so systematically, that it never publishes its purposes + or its proceedings, sooner or more extensively than necessary. I send you + a pamphlet, which, giving an account of the last <i>AssemblĂ©e des Notable</i>, + may give an idea of what the present will be. + </p> + <p> + A great desire prevails here of encouraging manufactures. The famous + Boulton and Watt, who are at the head of the plated manufactures of + Birmingham, the steam mills of London, copying presses and other + mechanical works, have been here. It is said, also, that Wedgewood has + been here, who is famous for his steel manufactories, and an earthen ware + in the antique style; but as to this last person, I am not certain. It + cannot, I believe be doubted, but that they came at the request of + government, and that they will be induced to establish similar + manufactures here. + </p> + <p> + The transferring hither those manufactures, which contribute so much to + draw our commerce to England, will have a great tendency to strengthen our + connections with this country, and loosen them with that. + </p> + <p> + The enfranchising the port of Honfleur at the mouth of the Seine, for + multiplying the connections with us, is at present an object. It meets + with opposition in the ministry; but I am in hopes it will prevail. If + natural causes operate, uninfluenced by accidental circumstances, Bordeaux + and Honfleur, or Havre, must ultimately take the greatest part of our + commerce. The former, by the Garonne and canal of Languedoc, opens the + southern provinces to us; the latter, the northern ones and Paris. + Honfleur will be peculiarly advantageous for our rice and whale oil, of + which the principal consumption is at Paris. Being free, they can be + re-exported when the market here shall happen to be overstocked. + </p> + <p> + The labors of the ensuing summer will close the eastern half of the harbor + of Cherbourg, which will contain and protect forty sail of the line. It + has from fifty to thirty-five feet of water next to the cones, shallowing + gradually to the shore. Between this and Dunkirk, the navigation of the + channel will be rendered much safer in the event of a war with England, + and invasions on that country become more practicable. + </p> + <p> + The gazettes of France and Leyden, to the present date, accompany this. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect respect, Sir, + your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0040" id="link2H_4_0040"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XL.—TO JOHN ADAMS, January 11, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN ADAMS. + </p> + <p> + Paris, January 11, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Mr. Jay, in his last letter to me, observes they hear nothing further of + the treaty with Portugal. I have taken the liberty of telling him that I + will write to you on the subject, and that he may expect to hear from you + on it, by the present conveyance. The Chevalier del Pinto being at London, + I presume he has, or can inform you why it is delayed on their part. I + will thank you also for the information he shall give you. + </p> + <p> + There is here an order of priests called the Mathurins, the object of + whose institution is, the begging of alms for the redemption of captives. + About eighteen months ago, they redeemed three hundred, which cost them + about fifteen hundred livres a piece. They have agents residing in the + Barbary States, who are constantly employed in searching and contracting + for the captives of their nation, and they redeem at a lower price than + any other people can. It occurred to me, that their agency might be + engaged for our prisoners at Algiers. I have had interviews with them, and + the last night a long one with the General of the order. They offer their + services with all the benignity and cordiality possible. The General told + me, he could not expect to redeem our prisoners as cheap as their own, but + that he would use all the means in his power to do it on the best terms + possible, which will be the better, as there shall be the less suspicion + that he acts for our public. I told him I would write to you on the + subject, and speak to him again. What do you think of employing them, + limiting them to a certain price, as three hundred dollars, for instance, + or any other sum you think proper? He will write immediately to his + instruments there, and in two or three months we can know the event. He + will deliver them at Marseilles, Cadiz, or where we please, at our + expense. The money remaining of the fund destined to the Barbary business, + may, I suppose, be drawn on for this object. Write me your opinion, if you + please, on this subject, finally, fully, and immediately, that, if you + approve the proposition, I may enter into arrangements with the General + before my departure to the waters of Aix, which will be about the + beginning of February, + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with very sincere esteem and respect, Dear Sir, + your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0041" id="link2H_4_0041"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XLI.—TO MONSIEUR LE DUC D’HARCOURT, January 14, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO MONSIEUR LE DUC D’HARCOURT, GOUVERNEUR DU DAUPHIN. + </p> + <p> + Paris, January 14, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + In the conversation with which you were pleased to honor me a few days + ago, on the enfranchisement of the port of Honfleur, I took the liberty of + observing, that I was not instructed by my constituents to make any + proposition on that subject. That it would be agreeable to them, however, + I must suppose, because it will offer the following advantages. + </p> + <p> + 1. It is a convenient <i>entrepĂ´t</i> for furnishing us with the + manufactures of the northern parts of France, and particularly of Paris, + and for receiving and distributing the productions of our country in + exchange. + </p> + <p> + 2. Cowes, on the opposite side of the channel, has heretofore been the + deposite for a considerable part of our productions, landed in Great + Britain in the first instance, but intended for re-exportation. From + thence our rice, particularly, has been distributed to France and other + parts of Europe. I am not certain, whether our tobaccos were deposited + there, or carried to London to be sorted for the different markets. To + draw this business from Cowes, no place is so favorably situated as + Honfleur. + </p> + <p> + 3. It would be a convenient deposite for our whale-oil, of which, after + the supply of Paris, there will be a surplus for re-exportation. + </p> + <p> + 4. Should our fur-trade be recovered out of the hands of the English, it + will naturally come to Honfleur, as the out-port of Paris. + </p> + <p> + 5. Salt is an important article in all our return cargoes; because, being + carried as ballast, its freight costs nothing. But on account of some + regulations, with which I am not well acquainted, it cannot at present be + shipped to advantage from any port on the Seine. + </p> + <p> + 6. Our vessels being built sharp, for swift sailing, suffer extremely in + most of the western ports of France, in which they are left on dry ground + at every ebb of the tide. But at Honfleur, I am told, they can ride in + bold water, on a good bottom, and near the shore, at all times. + </p> + <p> + These facts may, perhaps, throw some light on the question in which, for + the good of both countries, you are pleased to interest yourself. I take + the liberty, therefore, of barely mentioning them, and with the more + pleasure, as it furnishes me an occasion of assuring you of those + sentiments of respect and esteem, with which I have the honor to be your + most obedient, humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0042" id="link2H_4_0042"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XLII.—TO MONSIEUR DE CREVE-COEUR, January 15,1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO MONSIEUR DE CREVE-COEUR. + </p> + <p> + Paris, January 15,1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I see by the Journal of this morning, that they are robbing us of another + of our inventions, to give it to the English. The writer, indeed, only + admits them to have revived what he thinks was known to the Greeks, that + is, the making the circumference of a wheel of one single piece. The + farmers in New Jersey were the first who practised it, and they practised + it commonly. Dr. Franklin, in one of his trips to London, mentioned this + practice to the man now in London, who has the patent for making those + wheels. The idea struck him. The Doctor promised to go to his shop, and + assist him in trying to make the wheel of one piece. The Jersey farmers do + it by cutting a young sapling, and bending it, while green and juicy, into + a circle; and leaving it so until it becomes perfectly seasoned. But in + London there are no saplings. The difficulty was, then, to give to old + wood the pliancy of young. The Doctor and the workman labored together + some weeks, and succeeded; and the man obtained a patent for it, which has + made his fortune. I was in his shop in London; he told me the whole story + himself, and acknowledged not only the origin of the idea, but how much + the assistance of Dr. Franklin had contributed to perform the operation on + dry wood. He spoke of him with love and gratitude. I think I have had a + similar account from Dr. Franklin, but cannot be quite certain. I know, + that being in Philadelphia when the first set of patent wheels arrived + from London, and were spoken of, by the gentleman (an Englishman) who + brought them, as a wonderful discovery, the idea of its being a new + discovery was laughed at by the Philadelphians, who, in their Sunday + parties across the Delaware, had seen every farmer’s cart mounted on such + wheels. The writer in the paper supposes the English workman got his idea + from Homer. But it is more likely the Jersey farmer got his idea from + thence, because ours are the only farmers who can read Homer; because, + too, the Jersey practice is precisely that stated by Homer: the English + practice very different. Homer’s words are (comparing a young hero killed + by Ajax to a poplar felled by a workman) literally thus: ‘He fell on the + ground, like a poplar, which has grown smooth, in the west part of a great + meadow; with its branches shooting from its summit. But the chariot-maker, + with his sharp axe, has felled it, that he may bend a wheel for a + beautiful chariot. It lies drying on the banks of the river.’ Observe the + circumstances, which coincide with the Jersey practice. 1. It is a tree + growing in a moist place, full of juices, and easily bent. 2. It is cut + while green. 3. It is bent into the circumference of a wheel. 4. It is + left to dry in that form. You, who write French well and readily, should + write a line for the Journal, to reclaim the honor of our farmers. Adieu. + Yours affectionately, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0043" id="link2H_4_0043"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XLIII.—TO COLONEL EDWARD CARRINGTON, January 16, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO COLONEL EDWARD CARRINGTON. + </p> + <p> + Paris, January 16, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Uncertain whether you might be at New York at the moment of Colonel + Franks’ arrival, I have enclosed my private letters for Virginia, under + cover to our delegation in general, which, otherwise, I would have taken + the liberty to enclose particularly to you, as best acquainted with the + situation of the persons to whom they are addressed. Should this find you + at New York, I will still ask your attention to them. + </p> + <p> + In my letter to Mr. Jay, I have mentioned the meeting of the Notables, + appointed for the 29th instant. It is now put off to the 7th or 8th of + next month. This event, which will hardly excite any attention in America, + is deemed here the most important one, which has taken place in their + civil line during the present century. Some promise their country great + things from it, some nothing. Our friend De la Fayette was placed on the + list originally. Afterwards his name disappeared; but finally was + reinstated. This shows, that his character here is not considered as an + indifferent one; and that it excites agitation. His education in our + school has drawn on him a very jealous eye, from a court whose principles + are the most absolute despotism. But I hope he has nearly passed his + crisis. The King, who is a good man, is favorably disposed towards him; + and he is supported by powerful family connections, and by the public good + will. He is the youngest man of the Notables, except one, whose office + placed him on the list. + </p> + <p> + The Count de Vergennes has, within these ten days, had a very severe + attack of what is deemed an unfixed gout. He has been well enough, + however, to do business to-day. But anxieties for him are not yet quieted. + He is a great and good minister, and an accident to him might endanger the + peace of Europe. + </p> + <p> + The tumults in America I expected would have produced in Europe an + unfavorable opinion of our political state. But it has not. On the + contrary, the small effect of these tumults seems to have given more + confidence in the firmness of our governments. The interposition of the + people themselves on the side of government, has had a great effect on the + opinion here. I am persuaded myself, that the good sense of the people + will always be found to be the best army. They may be led astray for a + moment, but will soon correct themselves. The people are the only censors + of their governors; and even their errors will tend to keep these to the + true principles of their institution. To punish these errors too severely, + would be to suppress the only safeguard of the public liberty. The way to + prevent these irregular interpositions of the people, is to give them full + information of their affairs through the channel of the public papers, and + to contrive that those papers should penetrate the whole mass of the + people. The basis of our governments being the opinion of the people, the + very first object should be to keep that right; and were it left to me to + decide, whether we should have a government without newspapers, or + newspapers without a government, I should not hesitate a moment to prefer + the latter. But I should mean, that every man should receive those papers, + and be capable of reading them. I am convinced that those societies (as + the Indians), which live without government, enjoy in their general mass + an infinitely greater degree of happiness, than those who live under the + European governments. Among the former, public opinion is in the place of + law, and restrains morals as powerfully as laws ever did any where. Among + the latter, under pretence of governing, they have divided their nations + into two classes, wolves and sheep. I do not exaggerate. This is a true + picture of Europe. Cherish, therefore, the spirit of our people, and keep + alive their attention. Do not be too severe upon their errors, but reclaim + them by enlightening them. If once they become inattentive to the public + affairs, you, and I, and Congress, and Assemblies, Judges and Governors, + shall all become wolves. It seems to be the law of our general nature, in + spite of individual exceptions: and experience declares, that man is the + only animal which devours his own kind; for I can apply no milder term to + the governments of Europe, and to the general prey of the rich on the + poor. The want of news has led me into disquisition instead of narration, + forgetting you have every day enough of that. I shall be happy to hear + from you sometimes, only observing, that whatever passes through the post + is read, and that when you write what should be read by myself only, you + must be so good as to confide your letter to some passenger, or officer of + the packet. I will ask your permission to write to you sometimes, and to + assure you of the esteem and respect with which I have the honor to be, + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, your most obedient + </p> + <p> + and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0044" id="link2H_4_0044"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XLIV—TO JAMES MADISON, January 30, 1787 * + </h2> + <p> + TO JAMES MADISON. + </p> + <p> + Paris, January 30, 1787. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [* The latter part of this letter is in cipher; but appended + to the copy preserved, are explanatory notes, which have + enabled us to publish it entire, except a few words, to + which they afford no key. These are either marked thus * * *, + or the words, which the context seemed to require, inserted + in italics.] +</pre> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + My last to you was of the 16th of December; since which I have received + yours of November the 25th and December the 4th, which afforded me, as + your letters always do, a treat on matters public, individual and + economical. I am impatient to learn your sentiments on the late troubles + in the Eastern States. So far as I have yet seen, they do not appear to + threaten serious consequences. Those States have suffered by the stoppage + of the channels of their commerce, which have not yet found other issues. + This must render money scarce, and make the people uneasy. This uneasiness + has produced acts absolutely unjustifiable: but I hope they will provoke + no severities from their governments. A consciousness of those in power, + that their administration of the public affairs has been honest, may, + perhaps, produce too great a degree of indignation: and those characters + wherein fear predominates over hope, may apprehend too much from these + instances of irregularity. They may conclude too hastily, that nature has + formed man insusceptible of any other government than that of force, a + conclusion not founded in truth nor experience. Societies exist under + three forms, sufficiently distinguishable. 1. Without government, as among + our Indians. 2. Under governments, wherein the will of every one has a + just influence; as is the case in England, in a slight degree, and in our + States, in a great one. 3. Under governments of force; as is the case in + all other monarchies, and in most of the other republics. To have an idea + of the curse of existence under these last, they must be seen. It is a + government of wolves over sheep. It is a problem, not clear in my mind, + that the first condition is not the best. But I believe it to be + inconsistent with any great degree of population. The second state has a + great deal of good in it. The mass of mankind under that enjoys a precious + degree of liberty and happiness. It has its evils too: the principal of + which is the turbulence to which it is subject. But weigh this against the + oppressions of monarchy, and it becomes nothing. <i>Malo periculosam + libertatem quam quietam servitutem</i>. Even this evil is productive of + good. It prevents the degeneracy of government, and nourishes a general + attention to the public affairs. I hold it, that a little rebellion now + and then is a good thing, and as necessary in the political world, as + storms in the physical. Unsuccessful rebellions, indeed, generally + establish the encroachments on the rights of the people, which have + produced them. An observation of this truth should render honest + republican governors so mild in their punishment of rebellions, as not to + discourage them too much. It is a medicine necessary for the sound health + of government. + </p> + <p> + If these transactions give me no uneasiness, I feel very differently at + another piece of intelligence, to wit, the possibility that the navigation + of the Mississippi may be abandoned to Spain. I never had any interest + westward of the Allegany; and I never will have any. But I have had great + opportunities of knowing the character of the people who inhabit that + country; and I will venture to say, that the act which abandons the + navigation of the Mississippi, is an act of separation between the eastern + and western country. It is a relinquishment of five parts out of eight of + the territory of the United States; an abandonment of the fairest subject + for the payment of our public debts, and the chaining those debts on our + own necks, <i>in perpetuum</i>. I have the utmost confidence in the honest + intentions of those who concur in this measure; but I lament their want of + acquaintance with the character and physical advantages of the people, + who, right or wrong, will suppose their interests sacrificed on this + occasion to the contrary interests of that part of the confederacy in + possession of present power. If they declare themselves a separate people, + we are incapable of a single effort to retain them. Our citizens can never + be induced, either as militia or as soldiers, to go there to cut the + throats of their own brothers and sons, or rather, to be themselves the + subjects, instead of the perpetrators, of the parricide. Nor would that + country quit the cost of being retained against the will of its + inhabitants, could it be done. But it cannot be done. They are able + already to rescue the navigation of the Mississippi out of the hands of + Spain, and to add New Orleans to their own, territory. They will be joined + by the inhabitants of Louisiana. This will bring on a war between them and + Spain; and that will produce the question with us, whether it will not be + worth our while to become parties with them in the war, in order to + re-unite them with us, and thus correct our error. And were I to permit my + forebodings to go one step further, I should predict, that the inhabitants + of the United States would force their rulers to take the affirmative of + that question. I wish I may be mistaken in all these opinions. + </p> + <p> + We have for some time expected, that the Chevalier de la Luzerne would + obtain a promotion in the diplomatic line, by being appointed to some of + the courts where this country keeps an ambassador. But none of the + vacancies taking place, which had been counted on, I think the present + disposition is to require his return to his station in America. He told me + himself, lately, that he should return in the spring. I have never pressed + this matter on the court, though I knew it to be desirable and desired on + our part; because if the compulsion on him to return had been the work of + Congress, he would have returned in such ill temper with them, as to + disappoint them in the good they expected from it. He would for ever have + laid at their door his failure of promotion. I did not press it for + another reason, which is, that I have great reason to believe, that the + character of the Count de Moutier, who would go, were the Chevalier to be + otherwise provided for, would give the most perfect satisfaction in + America. + </p> + <p> + As you have now returned into Congress, it will become of importance, that + you should form a just estimate of certain public characters; on which, + therefore, I will give you such notes as my knowledge of them has + furnished me with. You will compare them with the materials you are + otherwise possessed of, and decide on a view of the whole. + </p> + <p> + You know the opinion I formerly entertained of my friend, Mr. Adams. * * * + and the Governor were the first who shook that opinion. I afterwards saw + proofs, which convicted him of a degree of vanity, and of a blindness to + it, of which no germ appeared in Congress. A seven months’ intimacy with + him here and as many weeks in London, have given me opportunities of + studying him closely. He is vain, irritable, and a bad calculator of the + force and probable effect of the motives which govern men. This is all the + ill which can possibly be said of him. He is as disinterested as the Being + who made him: he is profound in his views; and accurate in his judgment, + except where knowledge of the world is necessary to form a judgment. He is + so amiable, that I pronounce you will love him, if ever you become + acquainted with him. He would be, as he was, a great man in Congress. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carmichael is, I think, very little known in America. I never saw him, + and while I was in Congress I formed rather a disadvantageous idea of him. + His letters received then showed him vain, and more attentive to ceremony + and etiquette, than we suppose men of sense should be. I have now a + constant correspondence with him, and find him a little hypochondriac and + discontented. He possesses a very good understanding, though not of the + first order. I have had great opportunities of searching into his + character, and have availed myself of them. Many persons of different + nations, coming from Madrid to Paris, all speak of him as in high esteem, + and I think it certain that he has more of the Count de Florida Blanca’s + friendship, than any diplomatic character at that court. As long as this + minister is in office, Carmichael can do more than any other person who + could be sent there. + </p> + <p> + You will see Franks, and doubtless he will be asking some appointment. I + wish there may be any one for which he is fit. He is light, indiscreet, + active, honest, affectionate. Though Bingham is not in diplomatic office, + yet as he wishes to be so, I will mention such circumstances of him, as + you might otherwise be deceived in. He will make you believe he was on the + most intimate footing with the first characters in Europe, and versed in + the secrets of every cabinet. Not a word of this is true. He had a rage + for being presented to great men, and had no * * * in the methods by which + he could effect it. * * * * * + </p> + <p> + The Marquis de la Fayette is a most valuable auxiliary to me. His zeal is + unbounded, and his weight with those in power, great. His education having + been merely military, commerce was an unknown field to him. But his good + sense enabling him to comprehend perfectly whatever is explained to him, + his agency has been very efficacious. He has a great deal of sound genius, + is well remarked by the King, and rising in popularity. He has nothing + against him, but the suspicion of republican principles. I think he will + one day be of the ministry. His foible is a canine appetite for popularity + and fame; but he will get above this. <i>The Count de Vergennes is ill</i>. + The possibility of his <i>recovery</i> renders it dangerous for us to + express a doubt of it; but he is in danger. He is a great minister in + European affairs, but has very imperfect ideas of our institutions, and no + confidence in them. His devotion to the principles of pure despotism, + renders him unaffectionate to our governments. But his fear of England + makes him value us as a make-weight. He is cool, reserved in political + conversations, but free and familiar on other subjects, and a very + attentive, agreeable person to do business with. It is impossible to have + a, clearer, better organized head; but age has chilled his heart, + </p> + <p> + Nothing should be spared on our part, to attach this country to us. It is + the only one on which we can rely for support, under every event. Its + inhabitants love us more, I think, than they do any other nation on earth. + This is very much the effect of the good dispositions with which the + French officers returned. In a former letter, I mentioned to you the + dislocation of my wrist. I can make not the least use of it, except for + the single article of writing, though it is going on five months since the + accident happened. I have great anxieties, lest I should never recover any + considerable use of it. I shall, by the advice of my surgeons, set out in + a fortnight for the waters of Aix, in Provence. I chose these out of + several they proposed to me, because if they fail to be effectual, my + journey will not be useless altogether. It will give me an opportunity of + examining the canal of Languedoc, and of acquiring knowledge of that + species of navigation, which may be useful hereafter: but, more + immediately, it will enable me to make the tour of the ports concerned in + commerce with us, to examine, on the spot, the defects of the late + regulations, respecting our commerce, to learn the further improvements + which may be made in it, and, on my return, to get this business finished. + I shall be absent between two and three months, unless anything happens to + recall me here sooner, which may always be effected in ten days, in + whatever part of my route I may be. + </p> + <p> + In speaking of characters, I omitted those of Reyneval and Hennin, the two + eyes of Count de Vergennes. The former is the most important character, + because possessing the most of the confidence of the Count. He is rather + cunning than wise, his views of things being neither great nor liberal. He + governs himself by principles which he has learned by rote, and is fit + only for the details of execution. His heart is susceptible of little + passions, but not of good ones. He is brother-in-law to M. Gerard, from + whom he received disadvantageous impressions of us, which cannot be + effaced. He has much duplicity. Hennin is a philosopher, sincere, + friendly, liberal, learned, beloved by every body: the other by nobody. I + think it a great misfortune that the United States are in the department + of the former. As particulars of this kind may be useful to you, in your + present situation, I may hereafter continue the chapter. I know it will be + safely lodged in your discretion. Feb. 5. Since writing thus far, Franks + has returned from England. I learn that Mr. Adams desires to be recalled, + and that Smith should be appointed <i>ChargĂ© des Affaires</i> there. It is + not for me to decide whether any diplomatic character should be kept at a + court, which keeps none with us. You can judge of Smith’s abilities by his + letters. They are not of the first order, but they are good. For his + honesty, he is like our friend Monroe; turn his soul wrong side outwards, + and there is not a speck on it. He has one foible, an excessive + inflammability of temper, but he feels it when it comes on, and has + resolution enough to suppress it, and to remain silent till it passes + over. + </p> + <p> + I send you, by Colonel Franks, your pocket telescope, walking stick, and + chemical box. The two former could not be combined together. The latter + could not be had in the form you referred to. Having a great desire to + have a portable copying machine, and being satisfied from some experiment, + that the principle of the large machine might be applied in a small one, I + planned one when in England, and had it made. It answers perfectly. I have + since set a workman to making them here, and they are in such demand that + he has his hands full. Being assured that you will be pleased to have one, + when you shall have tried its convenience, I send you one by Colonel + Franks. The machine costs ninety-six livres, the appendages twenty-four + livres, and I send you paper and ink for twelve livres; in all, one + hundred and thirty-two livres. There is a printed paper of directions: but + you must expect to make many essays before you succeed perfectly. A soft + brush, like a shaving-brush, is more convenient than the sponge. You can + get as much ink and paper as you please, from London. The paper costs a + guinea a ream. I am, Dear Sir, with sincere esteem and affection, your + most obedient, humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0045" id="link2H_4_0045"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XLV.—TO JOHN JAY, February 1, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + Paris, February 1, 1787. + </p> + <p> + My last letters were of the 31st of December and 9th of January; since + which last date, I have been honored with yours of December the 13th and + 14th. I shall pay immediate attention to your instructions relative to the + South Carolina frigate. I had the honor of informing you of an improvement + in the art of coining, made here by one Drost, and of sending you, by + Colonel Franks, a specimen of his execution in gold and silver. I expected + to have sent also a coin of copper. The enclosed note from Drost will + explain the reason why this was not sent. It will let you see also, that + he may be employed; as I suppose he is not so certain as he was of being + engaged here. Mr. Grand, who knows him, gives me reason to believe he may + be engaged reasonably. Congress will decide whether it be worth their + attention. + </p> + <p> + In some of my former letters, I suggested an opportunity of obliging the + court, by borrowing as much money in Holland as would pay the debt due + here, if such a loan could be obtained; as to which, I was altogether + ignorant. To save time, I wrote to Mr. Dumas, to know whether he thought + it probable a loan could be obtained, enjoining on him the strictest + secrecy, and informing him I was making the inquiry merely of my own + motion, and without instruction. I enclose you his answer. He thinks + purchasers of the debt could be found, with a sacrifice of a small part of + the capital, and a postponement be obtained of some of the first + reimbursements. The proposition by him, for an immediate adoption of this + measure by me, was probably urged, on his mind by a desire to serve our + country, more than a strict attention to my duty, and the magnitude of the + object. I hope, on the contrary, that if it should be thought worth a + trial, it may be put into the hands of Mr. Adams, who knows the ground, + and is known there, and whose former successful negotiations in this line + would give better founded hopes of success on this occasion. + </p> + <p> + I formerly mentioned to you the hopes of preferment, entertained by the + Chevalier de la Luzerne. They have been baffled by events; none of the + vacancies taking place which had been expected. Had I pressed his being + ordered back, I have reason to believe the order would have been given. + But he would have gone back in ill humor with Congress, he would have laid + for ever at their door the failure of a promotion then viewed as certain; + and this might have excited dispositions that would have disappointed us + of the good we hoped from his return. The line I have observed with him + has been, to make him sensible that nothing was more desired by Congress + than his return, but that they would not willingly press it, so as to + defeat him of a personal advantage. He sees his prospects fail, and will + return in the approaching spring unless something unexpected should turn + up in his favor. In this case, the Count de Moutier has the promise of + succeeding to him, and if I do not mistake his character, he would give + great satisfaction. So that I think you may calculate on seeing one or the + other, by midsummer. + </p> + <p> + It had been suspected that France and England might adopt those concerted + regulations of commerce for their West Indies, of which your letter + expresses some apprehensions. But the expressions in the 4th, 5th, 7th, + 11th, 18th, and other articles of their treaty, which communicate to the + English the privileges of the most favored European nation only, has + lessened, if not removed those fears. They have clearly reserved a right + of favoring, specially, any nation not European; and there is no nation + out of Europe, who could so probably have been in their eye at that time, + as ours. They are wise. They must see it probable, at least, that any + concert with England will be but of short duration; and they could hardly + propose to sacrifice for that, a connection with us, which may be + perpetual. + </p> + <p> + We have been for some days, in much inquietude for the Count de Vergennes. + He is very seriously ill. Nature seems struggling to decide his disease + into a gout. A swelled foot, at present gives us a hope-of this issue. His + loss would at all times have been great; but it would be immense during + the critical poise of European affairs, existing at this moment. I enclose + you a letter from one of the foreign officers, complaining of the + non-payment of their interest. It is only one out of many I have received. + This is accompanied by a second copy of the Moorish declaration sent me by + Mr. Barclay. He went to Alicant to settle with Mr. Lambe; but on his + arrival there, found he was gone to Minorca. A copy of his letter will + inform you of this circumstance, and of some others relative to Algiers, + with his opinion on them. Whatever the States may enable Congress to do + for obtaining the peace of that country, it is a separate question whether + they will redeem our captives, how, and at what price. If they decide to + redeem them, I will beg leave to observe, that it is of great importance + that the first redemption be made at as low a price as possible, because + it will form the future tariff. If these pirates find that they can have a + very great price for Americans, they will abandon proportionably their + pursuits against other nations, to direct them towards ours. That the + choice of Congress may be enlarged, as to the instruments they may use for + effecting the redemption, I think it my duty to inform them, that there is + here an order of priests called the Mathurins, the object of whose + institution is to beg alms for the redemption of captives. They keep + members always in Barbary, searching out the captives of their country, + and redeem, I believe, on better terms than any other body, public or + private. It occurred to me, that their agency might be obtained for the + redemption of our prisoners at Algiers. I obtained conferences with the + General, and with some members of the order. The General, with all the + benevolence and cordiality possible, undertook to act for us if we should, + desire it. He told me that their last considerable redemption was of about + three hundred prisoners, who cost them somewhat upwards of fifteen hundred + livres apiece. But that they should not be able to redeem ours, as cheap + as they do their own; and that it must be absolutely unknown that the + public concern themselves in the operation, or the price would be greatly + enhanced. The difference of religion was not once mentioned, nor did it + appear to me to be thought of. It was a silent reclamation and + acknowledgment of fraternity, between two religions of the same family, + which historical events of ancient date had rendered more hostile to one + another, than to their common adversaries. I informed the General, that I + should communicate the good dispositions of his order, to those who alone + had the authority to decide whatever related to our captives. Mr. + Carmichael informs me, that monies have been advanced for the support of + our prisoners at Algiers, which ought to be replaced. I infer from the + context of his letter, that these advances have been made by the court of + Madrid. I submit the information to Congress. + </p> + <p> + A treaty of commerce is certainly concluded between France and Russia. The + particulars of it are yet secret. + </p> + <p> + I enclose the gazettes of France and Leyden to this date, and have the + honor of assuring you of those sentiments of perfect esteem and respect, + with which I am, Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0046" id="link2H_4_0046"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XLVI.—TO MRS. BINGHAM, February 7, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO MRS. BINGHAM. + </p> + <p> + Paris, February 7, 1787. + </p> + <p> + I know, Madam, that the twelve-month is not yet expired; but it will be, + nearly, before this will have the honor of being put into your hands. You + are then engaged to tell me, truly and honestly, whether you do not find + the tranquil pleasures of America, preferable to the empty bustle of + Paris. For to what does that bustle tend? At eleven o’clock, it is day, <i>chez + madame</i>, the curtains are drawn. Propped on bolsters and pillows, and + her head scratched into a little order, the bulletins of the sick are + read, and the billets of the well. She writes to some of her acquaintance, + and receives the visits of others. If the morning is not very thronged, + she is able to get out and hobble round the cage of the Palais Royal; but + she must hobble quickly, for the coiffeurs turn is come; and a tremendous + turn it is! Happy, if he does not make her arrive when dinner is half + over! The torpitude of digestion a little passed, she flutters half an + hour through the streets, by way of paying visits, and then to the + spectacles. These finished; another half hour is devoted to dodging in and + out of the doors of her very sincere friends, and away to supper. After + supper, cards and after cards, bed; to rise at noon the next day, and to + tread, like a mill-horse, the same trodden circle over again. Thus the + days of life are consumed, one by one, without an object beyond the + present moment; ever flying from the ennui of that, yet carrying it with + us; eternally in pursuit of happiness, which keeps eternally before us. If + death or bankruptcy happen to trip us out of the circle, it is matter for + the buzz of the evening, and is completely forgotten by the next morning. + In America, on the other hand, the society of your husband, the fond cares + for the children, the arrangements of the house, the improvements of the + grounds, fill every moment with a healthy and an useful activity. Every + exertion is encouraging, because to present amusement it joins the promise + of some future good. The intervals of leisure are filled by the society of + real friends, whose affections are not thinned to cobweb, by being spread + over a thousand objects. This is the picture, in the light it is presented + to my mind; now let me have it in yours. If we do not concur this year, we + shall the next; or if not then, in a year or two more. You see I am + determined not to suppose myself mistaken. + </p> + <p> + To let you see that Paris is not changed in its pursuits, since it was + honored with your presence, I send you its monthly history. But this + relating only to the embellishments of their persons, I must add, that + those of the city go on well also. A new bridge, for example, is begun at + the <i>Place Louis Quinze</i>; the old ones are clearing of the rubbish + which encumbered them in the form of houses 5 new hospitals erecting; + magnificent walls of inclosure, and Custom-houses at their entrances, + &c. &c. &c. I know of no interesting change among those whom + you honored with your acquaintance, unless Monsieur de Saint James was of + that number. His bankruptcy, and taking asylum in the Bastille, have + furnished matter of astonishment. His garden, at the Pont de Neuilly, + where, on seventeen acres of ground he had laid out fifty thousand louis, + will probably sell for somewhat less money. The workmen of Paris are + making rapid strides towards English perfection. Would you believe, that + in the course of the last two years, they have learned even to surpass + their London rivals in some articles? Commission me to have you a phaeton + made, and if it is not as much handsomer than a London one, as that is + than a fiacre, send it back to me. Shall I fill the box with caps, + bonnets, &c.? Not of my own choosing, but I was going to say, of + Mademoiselle Bertin’s, forgetting for the moment, that she too is + bankrupt. They shall be chosen then by whom you please; or, if you are + altogether nonplused by her eclipse, we will call an <i>AssemblĂ©es des + Notables</i>, to help you out of the difficulty, as is now the fashion. In + short, honor me with your, commands of any kind, and they shall be + faithfully executed. The packets now established from Havre to New York + furnish good opportunities of sending whatever you wish. + </p> + <p> + I shall end where I began, like a Paris day, reminding you of your + engagement to write me a letter of respectable length, an engagement the + more precious to me, as it has furnished me the occasion, after presenting + my respects to Mr. Bingham, of assuring you of the sincerity of those + sentiments of esteem and respect, with which I have the honor to be, Dear + Madam, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson, + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0047" id="link2H_4_0047"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XLVII.—TO GOVERNOR RANDOLPH, February 7, 1787 + </h2> + <h3> + TO GOVERNOR RANDOLPH. + </h3> + <p> + Paris, February 7, 1787. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor of enclosing to your Excellency a report of the + proceedings on the inauguration of the bust of the Marquis de la Fayette, + in this city. This has been attended with a considerable, but a necessary + delay. The principle that the King is the sole fountain of honor in this + country, opposed a barrier to our desires, which threatened to be + insurmountable. No instance of a similar proposition from a foreign power, + had occurred in their history. The admitting it in this case, is a + singular proof of the King’s friendly dispositions towards the States of + America, and of his personal esteem for the character of the Marquis de la + Fayette. + </p> + <p> + I take this, the earliest occasion, of congratulating my country on your + excellency’s appointment to the chair of government, and of assuring you, + with great sincerity, of those sentiments of perfect esteem and respect, + with which I have the honor to be your. Excellency’s most obedient and + most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0048" id="link2H_4_0048"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XLVIII.—TO JOHN JAY, February 8, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, February 8, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + The packet being to sail the day after to-morrow, I have awaited the last + possible moment of writing by her, in hopes I might be able to announce + some favorable change in the situation of the Count de Vergennes. But none + has occurred, and in the mean time he has become weaker by the continuance + of his illness. Though not desperately ill, he is dangerously so. The + Comptroller General, M. de Calonne, has been very ill also, but he is + getting well. These circumstances have occasioned the postponement of the + AssemblĂ©e des Notables to the 14th instant, and will probably occasion a + further postponement. As I shall set out this day se’nnight for the waters + of Aix, you will probably hear the issue of the Count de Vergennes illness + through some other channel, before I shall have the honor of addressing + you again. I may observe the same as to the final decision for the + enfranchisement of Honfleur, which is in a fair way of being speedily + concluded. The exertions of Monsieur de Creve-coeur, and particularly his + influence with the Duke d’Harcourt, the principal instrument in effecting + it, have been of chief consequence in this matter. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with the most perfect esteem and respect, Sir, + your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0049" id="link2H_4_0049"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XLIX.—TO MR. DUMAS, February 9, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO MR. DUMAS. + </p> + <p> + Paris, February 9, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + My last to you was dated December the 25th; since which I have been + honored with your several favors of December the 29th, January the 5th, + 9th, and 23rd. I thought that your affairs could not be more interesting + than they have been for a considerable time. Yet in the present moment + they are become more so, by the apparent withdrawing of so considerable a + personage in the drama, as the King of Prussia. To increase this interest, + another person, whose importance scarcely admits calculation, is in a + situation which fills us with alarm. Nature is struggling to relieve him + by a decided gout; she has my sincere prayers to aid her, as I am + persuaded she has yours. I have letters and papers from America as late as + the 15th of December. The government of Massachusetts had imprisoned three + of the leaders of their insurgents. The insurgents, being collected to the + number of three or four hundred, had sent in their petition to the + government, praying another act of pardon for their leaders and + themselves, and on this condition offering to go every man home, and + conduct himself dutifully afterwards. This is the latest intelligence. + </p> + <p> + I thank you for your attention to the question I had taken the liberty of + proposing to you. I think with you, that it would be advisable to have our + debt transferred to individuals of your country. There could and would be + no objection to the guarantee remaining as you propose; and a postponement + of the first payments of capital would surely be a convenience to us. For + though the resources of the United States are great and growing, and their + dispositions good, yet their machine is new, and they have not got it to + go well. It is the object of their general wish at present, and they are + all in movement, to set it in a good train; but their movements are + necessarily slow. They will surely effect it in the end, because all have + the same end in view; the difficulty being only to get all the thirteen + States to agree on the same means. Divesting myself of every partiality, + and speaking from that thorough knowledge which I have of the country, + their resources, and their principles, I had rather trust money in their + hands, than in that of any government on earth; because, though for a + while the payments of the interest might be less regular, yet the final + reimbursement of the capital would be more sure. + </p> + <p> + I set out next week for the south of France, to try whether some mineral + waters in that quarter, much recommended, will restore the use of my hand. + I shall be absent from Paris two or three months; but I take arrangements + for the regular receipt of your favors, as if I were here. It will be + better, however, for you to put your letters to Mr. Jay under cover to Mr. + Short, who remains here, and will forward them. + </p> + <p> + I have thought it my duty to submit to Congress the proposition about the + French debt, and may expect their answer in four months. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sincere esteem and respect, Sir, your most + obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0050" id="link2H_4_0050"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER L.—TO JOHN JAY, February 14, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, February 14, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + In the letter of the 8th instant, which I had the honor of writing you, I + informed you that the Count de Vergennes was dangerously ill. He died + yesterday morning, and the Count de Montmorin is appointed his successor. + Your personal knowledge of this gentleman renders it unnecessary for me to + say any thing of him. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Morris, during his office, being authorized to have the medals and + swords executed, which had been ordered by Congress, he authorized Colonel + Humphreys to take measures here for the execution. Colonel Humphreys did + so; and the swords were finished in time for him to carry them. The medals + not being finished, he desired me to attend to them. The workman who was + to make that of General Greene, brought me yesterday the medal in gold, + twenty-three in copper, and the die. Mr. Short, during my absence, will + avail himself of the first occasion which shall offer, of forwarding the + medals to you. I must beg leave, through you, to ask the pleasure of + Congress as to the number they would choose to have struck. Perhaps they + might be willing to deposite one of each person in every college of the + United States. Perhaps they might choose to give a series of them to each + of the crowned heads of Europe, which would be an acceptable present to + them. They will be pleased to decide. In the mean time I have sealed up + the die, and shall retain it till I am honored with their orders as to + this medal, and the others also when they shall be finished. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect esteem and + respect, + </p> + <p> + Sir, your most obedient + </p> + <p> + and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0051" id="link2H_4_0051"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LI.—TO JOHN JAY, February 23, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, February 23, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + The <i>AssemblĂ©e des Notables</i> being an event in the history of this + country which excites notice, I have supposed it would not be disagreeable + to you to learn its immediate objects, though no way connected with our + interests. The Assembly met yesterday: the King, in a short but + affectionate speech, informed them of his wish to consult with them on the + plans he had digested, and on the general good of his people, and his + desire to imitate the head of his family, Henry IV., whose memory is so + dear to the nation. The <i>Garde des Sceaux</i> then spoke about twenty + minutes, chiefly in compliment to the orders present. The Comptroller + General, in a speech of about an hour, opened the budget, and enlarged on + the several subjects which will be under their deliberation. He explained + the situation of the finances at his accession to office, the expenses + which their arrangement had rendered necessary, their present state with + the improvements made in them, the several plans which had been proposed + for their further improvement, a change in the form of some of their + taxes, the removal of the interior Custom-houses to the frontiers, and the + institution of Provincial Assemblies. The Assembly was then divided into + committees, with a prince of the blood at the head of each. In this form + they are to discuss separately the subjects which will be submitted to + them. Their decision will be reported by two members to the minister, who, + on view of the separate decisions of all the committees, will make such + changes in his plans, as will best accommodate them to their views, + without too much departing from his own, and will then submit them to the + vote (but I believe not to the debate) of the General Assembly, which will + be convened for this purpose one day in every week, and will vote + individually. + </p> + <p> + The event ©f the Count de Vergennes’death, of which I had the honor to + inform you in a letter of the 14th instant, the appointment of the Count + Montmorin, and the propriety of my attending at his first audience, which + will be on the 27th, have retarded the journey I had proposed a few days. + </p> + <p> + I shall hope, on my return, to meet here new powers for the consular + convention, as, under those I have, it will be impossible to make the + changes in the convention, which may be wished for. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect esteem and + respect, Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0052" id="link2H_4_0052"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LII.—TO THE MARQUIS DE LA FAYETTE, February 28, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO THE MARQUIS DE LA FAYETTE. + </p> + <p> + Paris, February 28, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I am just now in the moment of my departure. Monsieur de Montmorin having + given us audience at Paris yesterday, I missed the opportunity of seeing + you once more. I am extremely pleased with his modesty, the simplicity of + his manners, and his dispositions towards us. I promise myself a great + deal of satisfaction in doing business with him. I hope he will not give + ear to any unfriendly suggestions. I flatter myself I shall hear from you + sometimes. Send your letters to my hotel as usual, and they will be + forwarded to me. I wish you success in your meeting. I should form better + hopes of it, if it were divided into two Houses instead of seven. Keeping + the good model of your neighboring country before your eyes, you may get + on, step by step, towards a good constitution. Though that model is not + perfect, yet, as it would unite more suffrages than any new one which + could be proposed, it is better to make that the object. If every advance + is to be purchased by filling the royal coffers with gold, it will be gold + well employed. The King, who means so well, should be encouraged to repeat + these Assemblies. You see how we republicans are apt to preach, when we + get on politics. Adieu, my dear friend. + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0053" id="link2H_4_0053"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LIII.—TO MADAME LA COMTESSE DE TESSE, March 20, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO MADAME LA COMTESSE DE TESSE. + </p> + <p> + Nismes, March 20, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Here I am, Madam, gazing whole hours at the <i>Maison QuarrĂ©e</i>, like a + lover at his mistress. The stocking-weavers and silk-spinners around it, + consider me as a hypochondriac Englishman, about to write with a pistol + the last chapter of his history. This is the second time I have been in + love since I left Paris. The first was with a Diana at the Chateau de + Lay-Epinaye in Beaujolois, a delicious morsel of sculpture, by M. A. + Slodtz. This, you will say, was in rule, to fall in love with a female + beauty: but with a house! It is out of all precedent. No, Madam, it is not + without a precedent, in my own history. While in Paris, I was violently + smitten with the Hotel de Salm, and used to go to the Tuileries almost + daily to look at it. The <i>loueuse des chaises</i>, inattentive to my + passion, never had the complaisance to place a chair there, so that, + sitting on the parapet, and twisting my neck round to see the object of my + admiration, I generally left it with a torticollis. + </p> + <p> + From Lyons to Nismes I have been nourished with the remains of Roman + grandeur. They have always brought you to my mind, because I know your + affection for whatever is Roman and noble. At Vienne I thought of you. But + I am glad you were not there; for you would have seen me more angry than I + hope you will ever see me. The Praetorian palace, as it is called, + comparable, for its fine proportions, to the <i>Maison QuarrĂ©e</i>, + defaced by the barbarians who have converted it to its present purpose, + its beautiful fluted Corinthian columns cut out in part to make space for + Gothic windows, and hewed down in the residue to the plane of the + building, was enough, you must admit, to disturb my composure. At Orange, + too, I thought of you. I was sure you had seen with pleasure the sublime + triumphal arch of Marius at the entrance of the city. I went then to the + Arena. Would you believe, Madam, that in this eighteenth century, in + France, under the reign of Louis XVI., they are at this moment pulling + down the circular wall of this superb remain to pave a road? And that too + from a hill which is itself an entire mass of stone, just as fit, and more + accessible? A former intendant, a M. de Basville, has rendered his memory + dear to the traveller and amateur, by the pains he took to preserve and + restore these monuments of antiquity. The present one (I do not know who + he is) is demolishing the object to make a good road to it. I thought of + you again, and I was then in great good humor, at the <i>Pont du Gard</i>, + a sublime antiquity, and well preserved. But most of all here, where Roman + taste, genius, and magnificence excite ideas analogous to yours at every + step. I could no longer oppose the inclination to avail myself of your + permission to write to you, a permission given with too much complaisance + by you, and used by me with too much indiscretion. Madame de Tott did me + the same honor. + </p> + <p> + But she being only the descendant of some of those puny heroes who boiled + their own kettles before the walls of Troy, I shall write to her from a + Grecian, rather than a Roman canton: when I shall find myself, for + example, among her Phocæan relations at Marseilles. + </p> + <p> + Loving, as you do, Madam, the precious remains of antiquity, loving + architecture, gardening, a warm sun, and a clear sky, I wonder you have + never thought of moving Chaville to Nismes. This, as you know, has not + always been deemed impracticable; and, therefore, the next time a <i>Surintendant + des bailments du roi</i>, after the example of M. Colbert, sends persons + to Nismes to move the <i>Maison QuarrĂ©e</i> to Paris, that they may not + come empty-handed, desire them to bring Chaville with them to replace it. + <i>A propos</i> of Paris. I have now been three weeks from there, without + knowing any thing of what has passed. I suppose I shall meet it all at + Aix, where I have directed my letters to be lodged, <i>poste restante</i>. + My journey has given me leisure to reflect on this <i>AssemblĂ©e des + Notables</i>. Under a good and a young King, as the present, I think good + may be made of it. I would have the deputies, then, by all means, so + conduct themselves as to encourage him to repeat the calls of this + Assembly. Their first step should be to get themselves divided into two + chambers instead of seven; the Noblesse and the Commons separately. The + second, to persuade the King, instead of choosing the deputies of the + Commons himself, to summon those chosen by the people for the Provincial + administrations. The third, as the Noblesse is too numerous to be all of + the AssemblĂ©e, to obtain permission for that body to choose its own + deputies. Two Houses, so elected, would contain a mass of wisdom, which + would make the people happy, and the King great; would place him in + history where no other act can possibly place him. They would thus put + themselves in the track of the best guide they can follow, they would soon + overtake it, become its guide in turn, and lead to the wholesome + modifications wanting in that model, and necessary to constitute a + rational government. Should they attempt more than the established habits + of the people are ripe for, they must lose all, and retard indefinitely + the ultimate object of their aim. These, Madam, are my opinions; but I + wish to know yours, which I am sure will be better. + </p> + <p> + From a correspondent at Nismes you will not expect news. Were I to attempt + to give you news, I should tell you stories one thousand years old. I + should detail to you the intrigues of the courts of the Cæsars, how they + affect us here, the oppressions of their praetors, prefects, &c. I am + immersed in antiquities from morning to night. For me the city of Rome is + actually existing in all the splendor of its empire. I am filled with + alarms for the event of the irruptions daily making on us by the Goths, + the Visigoths, Ostrogoths, and Vandals, lest they should re-conquer us to + our original barbarism. If I am sometimes induced to look forward to the + eighteenth century, it is only when recalled to it by the recollection of + your goodness and friendship, and by those sentiments of sincere esteem + and respect, with which I have the honor to be, + </p> + <p> + Madam, your most obedient + </p> + <p> + and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0054" id="link2H_4_0054"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LIV.—TO THE MARQUIS DE LA FAYETTE, April 11, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO THE MARQUIS DE LA FAYETTE. + </p> + <p> + Nice, April 11, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Your head, my dear friend, is full of <i>Notable</i> things; and being + better employed, therefore, I do not expect letters from you. I am + constantly roving about to see what I have never seen before, and shall + never see again. In the great cities, I go to see what travellers think + alone worthy of being seen; but I make a job of it, and generally gulp it + all down in a day. On the other hand, I am never satiated with rambling + through the fields and farms, examining the culture and cultivators with a + degree of curiosity, which makes some take me to be a fool, and others to + be much wiser than I am. I have been pleased to find among the people a + less degree of physical misery than I had expected. They are generally + well clothed, and have a plenty of food, not animal indeed, but vegetable, + which is as wholesome. Perhaps they are over-worked, the excess of the + rent required by the landlord obliging them to too many hours of labor in + order to produce that, and wherewith to feed and clothe themselves. The + soil of Champagne and Burgundy I have found more universally good than I + had expected, and as I could not help making a comparison with England, I + found that comparison more unfavorable to the latter than is generally + admitted. The soil, the climate, and the productions are superior to those + of England, and the husbandry as good, except in one point; that of + manure. In England, long leases for twenty-one years, or three lives, to + wit, that of the farmer, his wife, and son, renewed by the son as soon as + he comes to the possession, for his own life, his wife’s, and eldest + child’s, and so on, render the farms there almost hereditary, make it + worth the farmer’s while to manure the lands highly, and give the landlord + an opportunity of occasionally making his rent keep pace with the improved + state of the lands. Here the leases are either during pleasure, or for + three, six, or nine years, which does not give the farmer time to repay + himself for the expensive operation of well manuring, and therefore, he + manures ill, or not at all. I suppose, that could the practice of leasing + for three lives be introduced in the whole kingdom, it would, within the + term of your life, increase agricultural productions fifty per cent.; or + were any one proprietor to do it with his own lands, it would increase his + rents fifty per cent, in the course of twenty-five years. But I am told + the laws do not permit it. The laws then, in this particular, are unwise + and unjust, and ought to give that permission. In the southern provinces, + where the soil is poor, the climate hot and dry, and there are few + animals, they would learn the art, found so precious in England, of making + vegetable manure, and thus improving the provinces in the article in which + nature has been least kind to them. Indeed, these provinces afford a + singular spectacle. Calculating on the poverty of their soil, and their + climate by its latitude only, they should have been the poorest in France. + On the contrary, they are the richest, from one fortuitous circumstance. + Spurs or ramifications of high mountains, making down from the Alps, and, + as it were, reticulating these provinces, give to the vallies the + protection of a particular inclosure to each, and the benefit of a general + stagnation of the northern winds produced by the whole of them, and thus + countervail the advantage of several degrees of latitude. From the first + olive fields of Pierrelatte, to the orangeries of Hieres, has been + continued rapture to me. I have often wished for you. I think you have not + made this journey. It is a pleasure you have to come, and an improvement + to be added to the many you have already made. It will be a great comfort + to you, to know, from your own inspection, the condition of all the + provinces of your own country, and it will be interesting to them at some + future day, to be known to you. This is, perhaps, the only moment of your + life in which you can acquire that knowledge. And to do it most + effectually, you must be absolutely incognito, you must ferret the people + out of their hovels as I have done, look into their kettles, eat their + bread, loll on their beds under pretence of resting yourself, but in fact + to find if they are soft. You will feel a sublime pleasure in the course + of this investigation, and a sublimer one hereafter, when you shall be + able to apply your knowledge to the softening of their beds, or the + throwing a morsel of meat into their kettle of vegetables. + </p> + <p> + You will not wonder at the subjects of my letter: they are the only ones + which have been presented to my mind for some time past; and the waters + must always be what are the fountains from which they flow. According to + this, indeed, I should have intermixed, from beginning to end, warm + expressions of friendship to you. But, according to the ideas of our + country, we do not permit ourselves to speak even truths, when they may + have the air of flattery. I content myself, therefore, with saying once + for all, that I love you, your wife, and children. Tell them so, and + adieu. + </p> + <p> + Yours affectionately, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0055" id="link2H_4_0055"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LV.—TO WILLIAM SHORT, April 12, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO WILLIAM SHORT. + </p> + <p> + Nice, April 12, 1787, + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + At Marseilles, they told me I should encounter the rice fields of Piedmont + soon after crossing the Alps. Here they tell me there are none nearer than + Vercelli and Novara, which is carrying me almost to Milan. I fear that + this circumstance will occasion me a greater delay than I had calculated + on. However, I am embarked in the project, and shall go through with it. + To-morrow, I set out on my passage over the Alps, being to pursue it + ninety-three miles to Coni, on mules, as the snows are not yet enough + melted to admit carriages to pass. I leave mine here, therefore, proposing + to return by water from Genoa. I think it will be three weeks before I get + back to Nice. I find this climate quite as delightful as it has been + represented. Hieres is the only place in France, which may be compared + with it. The climates are equal. In favor of this place, are the + circumstances of gay and dissipated society, a handsome city, good + accommodations, and some commerce. In favor of Hieres, are environs of + delicious and extensive plains, a society more contracted, and therefore + more capable of esteem, and the neighborhood of Toulon, Marseilles, and + other places, to which excursions may be made. Placing Marseilles in + comparison with Hieres, it has extensive society, a good theatre, freedom + from military control, and the most animated commerce. But its winter + climate is far inferior. I am now in the act of putting my baggage into + portable form for my bat-mule; after praying you, therefore, to let my + daughter know I am well, and that I shall not be heard of again in three + weeks, I take my leave of you for that time, with assurances of the + sincere esteem with which I am, Dear Sir, your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0056" id="link2H_4_0056"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LVI.—TO JOHN JAY, May 4, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Marseilles, May 4, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I had the honor of receiving at Aix, your letter of February the 9th, and + immediately wrote to the Count de Montmorin, explaining the delay of the + answer of Congress to the King’s letter, and desired Mr. Short to deliver + that answer, with my letter, to Monsieur de Montmorin, which he informs me + he has accordingly done. + </p> + <p> + My absence prevented my noting to you, in the first moment, the revolution + which has taken place at Paris, in the department of finance, by the + substitution of Monsieur de Fourqueux in the place of Monsieur de Calonne; + so that you will have heard of it through other channels, before this will + have the honor of reaching you. + </p> + <p> + Having staid at Aix long enough to prove the inefficacy of the waters, I + came on to this place, for the purpose of informing myself here, as I mean + to do at the other seaport towns, of whatever may be interesting to our + commerce. So far as carried on in our own bottoms, I find it almost + nothing; and so it must probably remain, till something can be done with + the Algerines. Though severely afflicted with the plague, they have come + out within these few days, and showed themselves in force along the coast + of Genoa, cannonading a little town and taking several vessels. + </p> + <p> + Among other objects of inquiry, this was the place to learn something more + certain on the subject of rice, as it is a great emporium for that of the + Levant, and of Italy. I wished particularly to know, whether it was the + use of a different machine for cleaning, which brought European rice to + market less broken than ours, as had been represented to me, by those who + deal in that article in Paris. I found several persons who had passed + through the rice country of Italy, but not one who could explain to me the + nature of the machine. But I was given to believe, that I might see it + myself immediately on entering Piedmont. As this would require but about + three weeks, I determined to go, and ascertain this point; as the chance + only of placing our rice above all rivalship in quality, as it is in + color, by the introduction of a better machine, if a better existed, + seemed to justify the application of that much time to it. I found the + rice country to be in truth Lombardy, one hundred miles further than had + been represented, and that though called Piedmont rice, not a grain is + made in the country of Piedmont. I passed through the rice-fields of the + Vercellese and Milanese, about sixty miles, and returned from thence last + night, having found that the machine is absolutely the same as ours, and + of course, that we need not listen more to that suggestion. It is a + difference in the species of grain; of which the government of Turin is so + sensible, that, as I was informed, they prohibit the exportation of rough + rice, on pain of death. I have taken measures, however, which I think will + not fail, for obtaining a quantity of it, and I bought on the spot a small + parcel, which I have with me. As further details on this subject to + Congress would be misplaced, I propose, on my return to Paris, to + communicate them, and send the rice to the society at Charleston for + promoting agriculture, supposing that they will be best able to try the + experiment of cultivating the rice of this quality, and to communicate the + species to the two States of South Carolina and Georgia, if they find it + answers. I thought the staple of these two States was entitled to this + attention, and that it must be desirable to them, to be able to furnish + rice of the two qualities demanded in Europe, especially, as the greater + consumption is in the forms for which the Lombardy quality is preferred. + The mass of our countrymen being interested in agriculture, I hope I do + not err in supposing, that in a time of profound peace, as the present, to + enable them to adapt their productions to the market, to point out markets + for them, and endeavor to obtain favorable terms of reception, is within + the line of my duty. + </p> + <p> + My journey into this part of the country has procured me information, + which I will take the liberty of communicating to Congress. In October + last, I received a letter, dated Montpelier, October the 2nd, 1786, + announcing to me that the writer was a foreigner, who had a matter of very + great consequence to communicate to me, and desired I would indicate the + channel through which it might pass safely. I did so. + </p> + <p> + I received soon after, a letter in the following words, omitting only the + formal parts. [<i>A translation of it is here given.</i>] + </p> + <p> + ‘I am a native of Brazil. You are not ignorant of the frightful slavery + under which my country groans. This continually becomes more + insupportable, since the epoch of your glorious independence; for the + cruel Portuguese omit nothing which can render our condition more + wretched, from an apprehension that we may follow your example. The + conviction, that these usurpers against the laws of nature and humanity + only meditate new oppressions, has decided us to follow the guiding light + which you have held out to us, to break our chains, to revive our almost + expiring liberty, which is nearly overwhelmed by that force, which is the + sole foundation of the authority that Europeans exercise over America. But + it is necessary that some power should extend assistance to the + Brazilians, since Spain would certainly unite herself with Portugal; and + in spite of our advantages for defence, we could not make it effectual, + or, at least, it would be imprudent to hazard the attempt, without some + assurance of success. In this state of affairs, Sir, we can, with + propriety, look only to the United States, not only because we are + following her example, but, moreover, because nature, in making us + inhabitants of the same continent, has in some sort united us in the bonds + of a common patriotism. On our part, we are prepared to furnish the + necessary supplies of money, and at all times to acknowledge the debt of + gratitude due to our benefactors. I have thus, Sir, laid before you a + summary of my views. It is in discharge of this commission that I have + come to France, since I could not effect it in America without exciting + suspicion. It now remains for you to decide whether those views can be + accomplished. Should you desire to consult your nation on them, it is in + my power to give you all the information you may require.’ + </p> + <p> + As by this time, I had been advised to try the waters of Aix, I wrote to + the gentleman my design, and that I would go off my road as far as Nismes, + under the pretext of seeing the antiquities of that place, if he would + meet me there. He met me, and the following is the sum of the information + I received from him. ‘Brazil contains as many inhabitants as Portugal. + They are, 1. Portuguese. 2. Native whites. 3. Black and mulatto slaves. 4. + Indians, civilized and savage. 1. The Portuguese are few in number, mostly + married there, have lost sight of their native country, as well as the + prospect of returning to it, and are disposed to become independent. 2. + The native whites form the body of their nation. 3. The slaves are as + numerous as the free. 4. The civilized Indians have no energy, and the + savage would not meddle. There are twenty thousand regular troops. + Originally these were Portuguese. But as they died off, they were replaced + by natives, so that these compose at present the mass of the troops, and + may be counted on by their native country. The officers are partly + Portuguese, partly Brazilians: their bravery is not doubted, and they + understand the parade, but not the science of their profession. They have + no bias for Portugal, but no energy either for any thing. The priests are + partly Portuguese, partly Brazilians, and will not interest themselves + much. The Noblesse are scarcely known as such. They will, in no manner, be + distinguished from the people. The men of letters are those most desirous + of a revolution. The people are not much under the influence of their + priests, most of them read and write, possess arms, and are in the habit + of using them for hunting. The slaves will take the side of their masters. + In short, as to the question of revolution, there is but one mind in that + Country. But there appears no person capable of conducting a revolution, + or willing to venture himself at its head, without the aid of some + powerful nation, as the people of their own might fail them. There is no + printing press in Brazil. They consider the North American revolution as a + precedent for theirs. They look to the United States as most likely to + give them honest support, and, from a variety of considerations, have the + strongest prejudices in our favor. This informant is a native and + inhabitant of Rio Janeiro, the present metropolis, which contains fifty + thousand inhabitants, knows well St. Salvador, the former one, and the <i>mines + d’or</i>, which are in the centre of the country. These are all for a + revolution; and, constituting the body of the nation, the other parts will + follow them, The King’s fifth of the mines, yields annually thirteen + millions of crusadoes or half dollars. He has the sole right of searching + for diamonds and other precious stones, which yield him about half as + much. His income from those two resources alone, then, is about ten + millions of dollars annually; but the remaining part of the produce of the + mines, being twenty-six millions, might be counted on for effecting a + revolution. Besides the arms in the hands of the people, there are public + magazines. They have abundance of horses, but only a part of their country + would admit the service of horses. They would want cannon, ammunition, + ships, sailors, soldiers, and officers, for which they are disposed to + look to the United States, it being always understood, that every service + and furniture will be well paid. Corn costs about twenty livres the one + hundred pounds. They have flesh in the greatest abundance, insomuch, that + in some parts, they kill beeves for the skin only. The whale fishery is + carried on by Brazilians altogether, and not by Portuguese; but in very + small vessels, so that the fishermen know nothing of managing a large + ship. They would want of us; at all times, shipping, corn, and salt fish. + The latter is a great article, and they are at present supplied with it + from Portugal. Portugal being without either army or navy, could not + attempt an invasion under a twelvemonth. Considering of what it would be + composed, it would not be much to be feared, and if it failed, they would + probably never attempt a second. Indeed, this source of their wealth being + intercepted, they are scarcely capable of a first effort. The thinking + part of the nation are so sensible of this, that they consider an early + separation inevitable. There is an implacable hatred between the + Brazilians and Portuguese; to reconcile which, a former minister adopted + the policy of letting the Brazilians into a participation of public + offices; but subsequent administrations have reverted to the ancient + policy of keeping the administrations in the hands of native Portuguese. + There is a mixture of natives, of the old appointments, still remaining in + office. If Spain should invade them on their southern extremities, these + are so distant from the body of their settlements, that they could not + penetrate thence; and Spanish enterprise is not formidable. The <i>mines + d’or</i> are among mountains, inaccessible to any army; and Rio Janeiro is + considered the strongest port in the world after Gibraltar. In case of a + successful revolution, a republican government in a single body would + probably be established.’ + </p> + <p> + I took care to impress on him, through the whole of our conversation, that + I had neither instructions nor authority to say a word to any body on this + subject, and that I could only give him my own ideas, as a single + individual: which were, that we were not in a condition at present to + meddle nationally in any war; that we wished particularly to cultivate the + friendship of Portugal, with whom we have an advantageous commerce. That + yet, a successful revolution in Brazil could not be uninteresting to us. + That prospects of lucre might possibly draw numbers of individuals to + their aid, and purer motives our officers, among whom are many excellent. + That our citizens being free to leave their own country individually, + without the consent of their governments, are equally free to go to any + other. + </p> + <p> + A little before I received the first letter of the Brazilian, a gentleman + informed me there was a Mexican in Paris, who wished to have some + conversation with me. He accordingly called on me. The substance of the + information I drew from him, was as follows. He is himself a native of + Mexico, where his relations are, principally. He left it about seventeen + years of age, and seems now to be about thirty-three or thirty-four. He + classes and characterizes the inhabitants of that country, as follows. 1. + The natives of Old Spain, possessed of most of the offices of government, + and firmly attached to it. 2. The clergy, equally attached to the + government. 3. The natives of Mexico, generally disposed to revolt, but + without instruction, without energy, and much under the dominion of their + priests. 4. The slaves, mulatto and black; the former enterprising and + intelligent, the latter brave, and of very important weight, into whatever + scale they throw themselves; but he thinks they will side with their + masters. 5. The conquered Indians, cowardly, not likely to take any side, + nor important which they take. 6. The free Indians, brave and formidable, + should they interfere, but not likely to do so, as being at a great + distance. I asked him the numbers of these several classes, but he could + not give them. The first, he thought very inconsiderable; that the second + formed the body of the freemen; the third equal to the two first; the + fourth, to all the preceding: and as to the fifth, he could form no idea + of their proportion. Indeed, it appeared to me, that his conjectures as to + the others were on loose grounds. He said he knew from good information, + there were three hundred thousand inhabitants in the city of Mexico. I was + still more cautious with him than with the Brazilian, mentioning it as my + private opinion (unauthorized to say a word on the subject, otherwise), + that a successful revolution was still at a distance with them; that I + feared they must begin by enlightening and emancipating the minds of their + people; that as to us, if Spain should give us advantageous terms of + commerce, and remove other difficulties, it was not probable that we + should relinquish certain and present advantages, though smaller, for + uncertain and future ones, however great. I was led into this caution by + observing, that this gentleman was intimate at the Spanish ambassador’s, + and that he was then at Paris, employed by Spain to settle her boundaries + with France, on the Pyrenees. He had much the air of candor, but that can + be borrowed; so that I was not able to decide about him in my own mind. + </p> + <p> + Led by a unity of subject, and a desire to give Congress as general a view + of the disposition of our southern countrymen, as my information enables + me, I will add an article which, old and insulated, I did not think + important enough to mention at the time I received it. You will remember, + Sir, that during the late war, the British papers often gave details of a + rebellion in Peru. The character of those papers discredited the + information. But the truth was, that the insurrections were so general, + that the event was long on the poise. Had Commodore Johnson, then expected + on that coast, touched and landed there two thousand men, the dominion of + Spain in that country would have been at an end. They only wanted a point + of union, which this body would have constituted. Not having this, they + acted without concert, and were are length subdued separately. This + conflagration was quenched in blood; two hundred thousand souls, on both + sides, having perished; but the remaining matter is very capable of + combustion. I have this information from a person who was on the spot at + the time, and whose good faith, understanding, and means of information + leave no doubt of the facts. He observed, however, that the numbers above + supposed to have perished were on such conjectures only as he could + collect. + </p> + <p> + I trouble Congress with these details, because, however distant we may be, + both in condition and dispositions, from taking an active part in any + commotions in that country, nature has placed it too near us to make its + movements altogether indifferent to our interests, or to our curiosity. + </p> + <p> + I hear of another <i>ArrĂŞt</i> of this court, increasing the duties on + foreign stock-fish, and the premium on their own imported into their + islands; but not having yet seen it, I can say nothing certain on it. I + hope the effect of this policy will be defeated by the practice which, I + am told, takes place on the Banks of Newfoundland, of putting our fish + into the French fishing-boats, and the parties sharing the premium, + instead of ours paying the duty. + </p> + <p> + I am in hopes Mr. Short will be able to send you the medals of General + Gates by this packet. I await a general instruction as to these medals. + The academies of Europe will be much pleased to receive each a set. + </p> + <p> + I propose to set out the day after to-morrow for Bordeaux (by the canal of + Languedoc), Mantes, L’Orient, and Paris. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect esteem and + respect, Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0057" id="link2H_4_0057"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LVII.—TO M. GUIDE, May 6, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO M. GUIDE. + </p> + <p> + Marseilles, May 6, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + A desire of seeing a commerce commenced between the dominions of his + Majesty, the King of Sardinia, and the United States of America, and a + direct exchange of their respective productions, without passing through a + third nation, led me into the conversation which I had the honor of having + with you on that subject, and afterwards with Monsieur Tallon at Turin, to + whom I promised that I would explain to you, in writing, the substance of + what passed between us. The articles of your produce wanted with us are + brandies, wines, oil, fruits, and manufactured silks: those with which we + can furnish you are indigo, potash, tobacco, flour, salt-fish, furs and + peltries, ships and materials for building them. The supply of tobacco, + particularly, being in the hands of government solely, appeared to me to + offer an article for beginning immediately the experiment of direct + commerce. That of the first quality can be had at first hand only from + James river in Virginia; those of the second and third from the same + place, and from Baltimore in Maryland. The first quality is delivered in + the ports of France at thirty-eight livres the quintal, the second at + thirty-six livres, the third at thirty-four livres, weight and money of + France, by individuals generally. I send you the copy of a large contract, + wherein the three qualities are averaged at thirty-six livres. They may be + delivered at Nice for those prices. Indeed, it is my opinion, that by + making shipments of your own produce to those places, and buying the + tobaccos on the spot, they may be had more advantageously. In this case, + it would be expedient that merchants of Nice, Turin, and America, should + form a joint concern for conducting the business in the two countries. + Monsieur Tallon desired me to point out proper persons in America who + might be addressed for this purpose. The house of the most extensive + reputation, concerned in the tobacco trade, and on the firmest funds, is + that of Messrs. Ross and Pleasants at Richmond, in Virginia. If it should + be concluded on your part to make any attempt of this kind, and to address + yourselves to these gentlemen, or any others, it would be best to write + them your ideas, and receive theirs, before you make either purchases or + shipments. A more hasty conduct might occasion loss, and retard, instead + of encouraging, the establishment of this commerce. I would undertake to + write, at the same time, to these or any other merchants whom you should + prefer, in order to dispose them favorably, and as disinterestedly as + possible, for the encouragement of this essay. I must observe to you, that + our vessels are fearful of coming into the Mediterranean on account of the + Algerines: and that if you should freight vessels, those of the French + will be most advantageous for you, because received into our ports without + paying any duties on some of those articles, and lighter than others on + all of them. English vessels, on the other hand, are distinguished by + paying heavier duties than those of any other nation. Should you desire + any further information, or to pass letters with certainty to any + mercantile house in America, do me the favor to address yourselves to me + at Paris, and I shall do whatever depends on me for this object. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of high esteem and respect, Sir, + your most obedient, humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0058" id="link2H_4_0058"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + MEMORANDA TAKEN ON A JOURNEY FROM PARIS IN 1787 + </h2> + <p> + <i>Memoranda taken on a Journey from Paris into the Southern Parts of + France, and Northern of Italy, in the year 1787</i>. + </p> + <p> + CHAMPAGNE. March 3. <i>Sens</i> to <i>Vermanton</i>. The face of the + country is in large hills, not too steep for the plough, somewhat + resembling the Elk hill and Beaver-dam hills of Virginia. The soil is + generally a rich mulatto loam, with a mixture of coarse sand, and some + loose stone. The plains of the Yonne are of the same color. The plains are + in corn, the hills in vineyard, but the wine not good. There are a few + apple-trees, but none of any other kind, and no enclosures. No cattle, + sheep, or swine; fine mules. + </p> + <p> + Few <i>chateaux</i>; no farm-houses, all the people being gathered in + villages. Are they thus collected by that dogma of their religion, which + makes them believe, that to keep the Creator in good humor with his own + works, they must mumble a mass every day? Certain it is, that they are + less happy and less virtuous in villages, than they would be insulated + with their families on the grounds they cultivate. The people are illy + clothed. Perhaps they have put on their worst clothes at this moment, as + it is raining. But I observe women and children carrying heavy burthens, + and laboring with the hoe. This is an unequivocal indication of extreme + poverty. Men, in a civilized country, never expose their wives and + children to labor above their force and sex, as long as their own labor + can protect them from it. I see few beggars. Probably this is the effect + of a police. + </p> + <p> + BURGUNDY. March 4. <i>Lucy-le-Bois. Cussy-les-Forges. Rouvray. + Maison-neuve. Vitieaux. La Chaleure. Pont de Panis. Dijon</i>. The hills + are higher, and more abrupt. The soil a good red loam and sand, mixed with + more or less grit, small stone, and sometimes rock. All in corn. Some + forest wood here and there, broom, whins, and holly, and a few enclosures + of quick-hedge. Now and then a flock of sheep. + </p> + <p> + The people are well clothed, but it is Sunday. They have the appearance of + being well fed. The Chateau de Sevigny, near Cussy-les-Forges, is a + charming situation. Between Maison-neuve and Vitteaux the road leads + through an avenue of trees, eight American miles long, in a right line. It + is impossible to paint the ennui of this avenue. On the summits of the + hills, which border the valley in which Vitteaux is, there is a parapet of + rock, twenty, thirty, or forty feet perpendicular, which crowns the hills. + The tops are nearly level, and appear to be covered with earth. Very + singular. Great masses of rock in the hills between La Chaleure and Pont + de Panis, and a conical hill in the approach to the last place. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dijon</i>. The tavern price of a bottle of the best wine (e. g. of + Vaune) is four livres. The best round potatoes here, I ever saw. They have + begun a canal thirty feet wide, which is to lead into the Saone at ————-. + It is fed by springs. They are not allowed to take any water out of the + riviere d’Ouche, which runs through this place, on account of the mills on + that river. They talk of making a canal to the Seine, the nearest + navigable part of which, at present, is fifteen leagues from hence. They + have very light wagons here for the transportation of their wine. They are + long and narrow; the fore-wheels as high as the hind. Two pieces of wine + are drawn by one horse in one of these wagons. The road in this part of + the country is divided into portions of forty or fifty feet by stones, + numbered, which mark the task of the laborers. + </p> + <p> + March 7 and 8. From <i>La Baraque</i> to <i>Chagny</i>. On the left are + plains, which extend to the Saone; on the right the ridge of mountains, + called the Cote. The plains are of a reddish-brown, rich loam, mixed with + much small stone. The Cote has for its basis a solid rock, on which is + about a foot of soil and small stone, in equal quantities, the soil red, + and of middling quality. The plains are in corn; the Cote in vines. The + former have no enclosures, the latter is in small ones, of dry stone wall. + There is a good deal of forest. Some small herds of small cattle and + sheep. Fine mules, which come from Provence, and cost twenty louis. They + break them at two years old, and they last to thirty. + </p> + <p> + The corn-lands here rent for about fifteen livres the arpent. They are now + planting, pruning, and sticking their vines. When a new vineyard is made, + they plant the vines in gutters about four feet apart. As the vines + advance, they lay them down. They put out new shoots, and fill all the + intermediate space, till all trace of order is lost. They have ultimately + about one foot square to each vine. They begin to yield good profit at + five or six years old, and last one hundred, or one hundred and fifty + years. A vigneron at Volnay carried me into his vineyard, which was of + about ten arpents. He told me, that some years it produced him sixty + pieces of wine, and some not more than three pieces. The latter is the + most advantageous produce, because the wine is better in quality, and + higher in price, in proportion as less is made; and the expenses, at the + same time, diminish in the same proportion. Whereas, when much is made, + the expenses are increased, while the quality and price become less. In + very plentiful years, they often give one half the wine for casks to + contain the other half. The cask for two hundred and fifty bottles costs + six livres in scarce years, and ten in plentiful. The feuillette is of one + hundred and twenty-five bottles, the piece of two hundred and fifty, and + the queue or botte of five hundred. An arpent rents at from twenty to + sixty livres. A farmer of ten arpents has about three laborers engaged by + the year. He pays four louis to a man, and half as much to a woman, and + feeds them. He kills one hog, and salts it, which is all the meat used in + the family during the year. Their ordinary food is bread and vegetables. + At Pomard and Volnay, I observed them eating good wheat bread; at + Meursault, rye. I asked the reason of the difference. They told me, that + the white wines fail in quality much oftener than the red, and remain on + hand. The farmer, therefore, cannot afford to feed his laborers so well. + At Meursault only white wines are made, because there is too much stone + for the red. On such slight circumstances depends the condition of man! + The wines which have given such celebrity to Burgundy grow only on the + Cote, an extent of about five leagues long, and half a league wide. They + begin at Chambertin, and go through Vougeau, Romanie, Veaune, Nuits, + Beaune, Pomard, Volnay, Meursault, and end at Monrachet. Those of the two + last are white; the others red. Chambertin, Vougeau, and Beaune are the + strongest, and will bear transportation and keeping. They sell, therefore, + on the spot for twelve hundred livres the queue, which is forty-eight sous + the bottle. Volnay is the best of the other reds, equal in flavor to + Chambertin, &c., but being lighter, will not keep, and therefore sells + for not more than three hundred livres the queue, which is twelve sous the + bottle. It ripens sooner than they do, and consequently is better for + those who wish to broach at a year old. In like manner of the white wines, + and for the same reason, Monrachet sells for twelve hundred livres the + queue (forty-eight sous the bottle), and Meursault of the best quality, + viz. the <i>Goutte d’or</i>, at only one hundred and fifty livres (six + sous the bottle). It is remarkable, that the best of each kind, that is, + of the red and white, is made at the extremities of the line, to wit, at + Chambertin and Monrachet. It is pretended, that the adjoining vineyards + produce the same qualities, but that, belonging to obscure individuals, + they have not obtained a name, and therefore sell as other wines. The + aspect of the Cote is a little south of east. The western side is also + covered with vines, and is apparently of the same soil; yet the wines are + only of the coarsest kinds. Such, too, are those which are produced in the + plains; but there the soil is richer, and less strong. Vougeau is the + property of the monks of Citeaux, and produces about two hundred pieces. + Monrachet contains about fifty arpents, and produces, one year with + another, about one hundred and twenty pieces. It belongs to two + proprietors only, Monsieur de Clarmont, who leases to some wine-merchants, + and the Marquis de Sarsnet, of Dijon, whose part is farmed to a Monsieur + de la Tour, whose family, for many generations, have had the farm. The + best wines are carried to Paris by land. The transportation costs + thirty-six livres the piece. The more indifferent go by water. Bottles + cost four and a half sous each. + </p> + <p> + March 9. <i>Chalons. Sennecey. Tournus. St. Albin. Macon.</i> On the left + are the fine plains of the Saone; on the right high lands, rather waving + than hilly, sometimes sloping gently to the plains, sometimes dropping + down in precipices, and occasionally broken into beautiful vallies[sp.] by + the streams which run into the Saone. The plains are a dark rich loam, in + pasture and corn; the heights more or less red or reddish, always gritty, + of middling quality only, their sides in vines, and their summits in corn. + The vineyards are enclosed with dry stone-walls, and there are some + quick-hedges in the corn-grounds. The cattle are few and indifferent. + There are some good oxen, however. They draw by the head. Few sheep, and + small. A good deal of wood-lands. + </p> + <p> + I passed three times the canal called Le Charollois, which they are + opening from Chalons on the Saone to Dijon on the Loire. It passes near + Chagny, and will be twenty-three leagues long. They have worked on it + three years, and will finish it in four more. It will reanimate the + languishing commerce of Champagne and Burgundy, by furnishing a water + transportation for their wines to Nantes, which also will receive new + consequence by becoming the emporium of that commerce. At some distance on + the right are high mountains, which probably form the separation between + the waters of the Saone and Loire. Met a malefactor in the hands of one of + the Marichausee; perhaps a dove in the talons of the hawk. The people + begin now to be in separate establishments, and not in villages. Houses + are mostly covered with tile. + </p> + <p> + BEAUJOLOIS.[Sp.] <i>Maison Blanche. St. George. Chateau de Laye-Epinaye</i>. + The face of the country is like that from Chalons to Macon. The plains are + a dark rich loam, the hills a red loam of middling quality, mixed + generally with more or less coarse sand and grit, and a great deal of + small stone. Very little forest. The vineyards are mostly enclosed with + dry stone-wall. A few small cattle and sheep. Here, as in Burgundy, the + cattle are all white. This is the richest country I ever beheld. It is + about ten or twelve leagues in length, and three, four, or five in + breadth; at least that part of it, which is under the eye of a traveller. + It extends from the top of a ridge of mountains, running parallel with the + Saone, and sloping down to the plains of that river, scarce any where too + steep for the plough. The whole is thick set with farm-houses, chateaux, + and the bastides of the inhabitants of Lyons. The people live separately, + and not in villages. The hill-sides are in vine and corn: the plains in + corn and pasture. The lands are farmed either for money, or on + half-stocks. The rents of the corn-lands, farmed for money, are about ten + or twelve livres the arpent. A farmer takes perhaps about one hundred and + fifty arpents, for three, six, or nine years. The first year they are in + corn; the second in other small grain, with which he sows red clover. The + third is for the clover. The spontaneous pasturage is of greensward, which + they call fromenteau. When lands are rented on half-stocks, the cattle, + sheep, &c. are furnished by the landlord. They are valued, and must be + left of equal value. The increase of these, as well as the produce of the + farm is divided equally. These leases are only from year to year. They + have a method of mixing beautifully the culture of vines, trees, and corn. + Rows of fruit-trees are planted about twenty feet apart. Between the + trees, in the row, they plant vines four feet apart, and espalier them. + The intervals are sowed alternately in corn, so as to be one year in corn, + the next in pasture, the third in corn, the fourth in pasture, &c. One + hundred toises of vines in length, yield generally about four pieces of + wine. In Dauphine, I am told, they plant vines only at the roots of the + trees, and let them cover the whole trees. But this spoils both the wine + and the fruit. Their wine, when distilled, yields but one-third its + quantity in brandy. The wages of a laboring man here are five louis; of a + woman, one half. The women do not work with the hoe: they only weed the + vines, the corn, &c, and spin. They speak a patois very difficult to + understand. I passed some time at the Chateau de Laye-Epinaye. Monsieur de + Laye has a seignory of about fifteen thousand arpents, in pasture, corn, + vines, and wood. He has over this, as is usual, a certain jurisdiction, + both criminal and civil. But this extends only to the first crude + examination, which is before his judges. The subject is referred, for + final examination and decision, to the regular judicatures of the country. + The Seigneur is keeper of the peace on his domains. He is therefore + subject to the expenses of maintaining it. A criminal prosecuted to + sentence and execution costs M. de Laye about five thousand livres. This + is so burthensome to the Seigneurs, that they are slack in criminal + prosecutions. A good effect from a bad cause. Through all Champagne, + Burgundy, and the Beaujolois, the husbandry seems good, except that they + manure too little. This proceeds from the shortness of their leases. The + people of Burgundy and Beaujolois are well clothed, and have the + appearance of being well fed. But they experience all the oppressions + which result from the nature of the general government, and from that of + their particular tenures, and of the seignorial government to which they + are subject. What a cruel reflection, that a rich country cannot long be a + free one. M. de Laye has a Diana and Endymion, a very superior morsel of + sculpture by Michael Angelo Slodtz, done in 1740. The wild gooseberry is + in leaf; the wild pear and sweet-briar in bud. + </p> + <p> + <i>Lyons</i>. There are some feeble remains here of an amphitheatre of two + hundred feet diameter, and of an aqueduct in brick. The Pont d’Ainay has + nine arches of forty feet from centre to centre. The piers are of six + feet. The almond is in bloom. + </p> + <p> + DAUPHINE. From <i>St. Fond</i> to <i>Mornant</i>. March 15, 16, 17, 18. + The Rhone makes extensive plains, which lie chiefly on the eastern side, + and are often in two stages. Those of Montelimart are three,or four miles + wide, and rather good. Sometimes, as in the neighborhood of Vienne, the + hills come in precipices to the river, resembling then very much our + Susquehanna and its hill, except that the Susquehanna is ten times as wide + as the Rhone. The highlands are often very level. The soil both of hill + and plain, where there is soil, is generally tinged, more or less, with + red. The hills are sometimes mere masses of rock, sometimes a mixture of + loose stone and earth. The plains are always stony, and as often as + otherwise covered perfectly with a coat of round stones, of the size of + the fist, so as to resemble the remains of inundations, from which all the + soil has been carried away. Sometimes they are middling good, sometimes + barren. In the neighborhood of Lyons there is more corn than wine. Towards + Tains more wine than corn. From thence the plains, where best, are in + corn, clover, almonds, mulberries, walnuts: where there is still some + earth, they are in corn, almonds, and oaks. The hills are in vines. There + is a good deal of forest-wood near Lyons, but not much afterwards. + Scarcely any enclosures. There are a few small sheep before we reach + Tains; there the’number increases. + </p> + <p> + Nature never formed a country of more savage aspect, than that on both + sides the Rhone. A huge torrent rushes like an arrow between high + precipices, often of massive rock, at other times of loose stone, with but + little earth. Yet has the hand of man subdued this savage scene, by + planting corn where there is a little fertility, trees where there is + still less, and vines where there is none. On the whole, it assumes a + romantic, picturesque, and pleasing air. The hills on the opposite side of + the river, being high, steep, and laid up in terraces, are of a singular + appearance. Where the hills are quite in waste, they are covered with + broom, whins, box, and some clusters of small pines. The high mountains of + Dauphine and Languedoc are now covered with snow. The almond is in general + bloom, and the willow putting out its leaf. There were formerly olives at + Tain; but a great cold, some years ago, killed them, and they have not + been replanted. I am told at Montelimart, that an almond tree yields about + three livres profit a year. Supposing them three toises apart, there will + be one hundred to the arpent, which gives three hundred livres a year, + besides the corn growing on the same ground. A league below Vienne, on the + opposite side of the river, is Cote Rotie. It is a string of broken hills, + extending a league on the river, from the village of Ampuis to the town of + Condrieu. The soil is white, tinged a little, sometimes, with yellow, + sometimes with red, stony, poor, and laid up in terraces. Those parts of + the hills only, which look to the sun at mid-day, or the earlier hours of + the afternoon, produce wines of the first quality. Seven hundred vines, + three feet apart, yield a <i>feuillette</i>, which is about two and a half + <i>pièces</i>, to the arpent. The best red wine is produced at the upper + end, in the neighborhood of Ampuis; the best white, next to Condrieu. They + sell of the first quality and last vintage, at one hundred and fifty + livres the <i>pièce</i>, equal to twelve sous the bottle. Transportation + to Paris is sixty livres, and the bottle four sous; so it may be delivered + at Paris in bottles, at twenty sous. When old, it costs ten or eleven + louis the <i>pièce</i>. There is a quality which keeps well, bears + transportation, and cannot be drunk under four years. Another must be + drunk at a year old. They are equal in flavor and price. + </p> + <p> + The wine called Hermitage, is made on the hills impending over the village + of Tain; on one of which is the hermitage which gives name to the hills + for about two miles, and to the wine made on them. There are but three of + those hills which produce wine of the first quality, and of these, the + middle regions only. They are about three hundred feet perpendicular + height, three quarters of a mile in length, and have a southern aspect. + The soil is scarcely tinged red, consists of small rotten stone, and is, + where the best wine is made, without any perceptible mixture of earth. It + is in sloping terraces. They use a little dung. An <i>homme de vignes</i>, + which consists of seven hundred plants, three feet apart, yields generally + about three quarters of a <i>pièce</i>, which is nearly four <i>pièces</i> + to the arpent. When new, the pièce is sold at about two hundred and + twenty-five livres; when old, at three hundred. It cannot be drunk under + four years, and improves fastest in a hot situation. There is so little + white made in proportion to the red, that it is difficult to buy it + separate. They make the white sell the red. If bought separately, it is + from fifteen to sixteen louis the pièce, new, and three livres the bottle, + old. To give quality to the red, they mix one eighth of white grapes. + Portage to Paris is seventy-two livres the pièce, weighing six hundred + pounds. There are but about one thousand <i>pièces</i> of both red and + white, of the first quality, made annually. Vineyards are never rented + here, nor are laborers in the vineyard hired by the year. They leave buds + proportioned to the strength of the vine, sometimes as much as fifteen + inches. The last hermit died in 1751. + </p> + <p> + In the neighborhood of Montelimart, and below that, they plant vines in + rows, six, eight, or ten feet apart, and two feet asunder in the row, + filling the intervals with corn. Sometimes the vines are in double rows, + two feet apart. I saw single asses in ploughs proportioned to their + strength. There are few chateaux in this province. The people, too, are + mostly gathered into villages. There are, however, some scattering + farm-houses. These are made either of mud, or of round stone and mud. They + make enclosures also, in both those ways. Day-laborers receive, sixteen or + eighteen sous the day, and feed themselves. Those by the year receive, men + three louis, women half that, and are fed. They rarely eat meat; a single + hog, salted, being the year’s stock for a family. But they have plenty of + cheese, eggs, potatoes, and other vegetables, and walnut oil with their + salad. It is a trade here, to gather dung along the road for their vines. + This proves they have few cattle. I have seen neither hares nor partridges + since I left Paris, nor wild fowl on any of the rivers. The roads from + Lyons to St. Rambert are neither paved nor gravelled. After that, they are + coated with broken flint. The ferry-boats on the Rhone and the Isere, are + moved by the stream, and very rapidly. On each side of the river is a + moveable stage, one end of which is on an axle and two wheels, which, + according to the tide, can be advanced or withdrawn, so as to apply to the + gunwale of the boat. The Praetorian Palace at Vienne, is forty-four feet + wide, of the Corinthian order, four columns in front, and four in flank. + It was begun in the year 400, and finished by Charlemagne. + </p> + <p> + The sepulchral Pyramid, a little way out of the town, has an order for its + basement, the pedestal of which, from point to point of its cap, is + twenty-four feet, one inch. At each angle, is a column, engaged one fourth + in the wall. The circumference of the three fourths disengaged, is four + feet four inches; consequently, the diameter is twenty-three inches. The + base of the column indicates it to be Ionic, but the capitals are not + formed. The cornice, too, is a bastard Ionic, without modillions or + dentils. Between the columns, on each side, is an arch of eight feet, four + inches, opening with a pilaster on each side of it. On the top of the + basement is a zocle, in the plane of the frieze below. On that is the + pyramid, its base in the plane of the collarins of the pilaster below. The + pyramid is a little truncated on its top. This monument is inedited. + </p> + <p> + March 18. <i>Principality of Orange</i>. The plains on the Rhone here, are + two or three leagues wide, reddish, good, in corn, clover, almonds, + olives. No forests. Here begins the country of olives, there being very + few till we enter this principality. They are the only tree which I see + planted among vines. Thyme grows wild here on the hills. Asses, very + small, sell here for two or three louis. The high hills in Dauphine are + covered with snow. The remains of the Roman aqueduct are of brick: a fine + pièce of Mosaic, still on its bed, forming the floor of a cellar. Twenty + feet of it still visible. They are taking down the circular wall of the + Amphitheatre to pave a road. + </p> + <p> + March 19 to 23. LANGUEDOC. <i>Pont-St.-Esprit. Bagnols. Connaux. + Valignitres. Remoulins. St. Gervasy. Vismes. Pont d’Aries.</i> To + Remoulins, there is a mixture of hill and dale. Thence to Nismes, hills on + the right, on the left, plains extending to the Rhone and the sea. The + hills are rocky. Where there is soil, it is reddish and poor. The -plains + generally reddish and good, but stony. When you approach the Rhone, going + to Arles, the soil becomes a dark gray loam with some sand, and very good. + The culture is corn, clover, saintfoin, olives, vines, mulberries, willow, + and some almonds. There is no forest. The hills are enclosed in dry + stone-wall. Many sheep. + </p> + <p> + From the summit of the first hill, after leaving Pont-St.-Esprit, there is + a beautiful view of the bridge at about two miles’ distance, and a fine + landscape of the country both ways. From thence, an excellent road, + judiciously conducted, through very romantic scenes. In one part, + descending the face of a hill, it is laid out in serpentine, and not + zigzag, to ease the descent. In others, it passes through a winding + meadow, from fifty to one hundred yards wide, walled, as it were, on both + sides, by hills of rock; and at length issues into plain country. The + waste hills are covered with thyme, box, and chene-vert. Where the body of + the mountains has a surface of soil, the summit has sometimes a crown of + rock, as observed in Champagne. At Nismes, the earth is full of + lime-stone. The horses are shorn. They are now pruning the olive. A very + good tree produces sixty pounds of olives, which yield fifteen pounds of + oil: the best quality selling at twelve sous the pound, retail, and ten + sous, wholesale. The high hills of Languedoc still covered with snow. The + horse-chestnut and mulberry are leafing; apple trees and peas blossoming. + The first butterfly I have seen. After the vernal equinox, they are often + six or eight months without rain. Many separate farm-houses, numbers of + people in rags, and abundance of beggars. The <i>mine</i> of wheat, + weighing thirty pounds, costs four livres and ten sous. Wheat bread, three + sous the pound. <i>Vin ordinaire</i>, good, and of a strong body, two or + three sous the bottle. Oranges, one sous apiece. They are nearly finishing + at Nismes a great mill, worked by a steam-engine, which pumps water from a + lower into an upper cistern, from whence two overshot wheels are supplied, + each of which turns two pair of stones. The upper cistern being once + filled with water, it passes through the wheels into the lower one, from + whence it is returned to the upper by the pumps. A stream of water of one + quarter or one half inch diameter, supplies the waste of evaporation, + absorption, fee. This is furnished from a well by a horse. The arches of + the Pont-St.-Esprit are of eighty-eight feet. Wild figs, very flourishing, + grow out of the joints of the Pont-du-Gard. The fountain of Nismes is so + deep, that a stone was thirteen seconds descending from the surface to the + bottom. + </p> + <p> + March 24. From Nismes to Arles. The plains extending from Nismes to the + Rhone, in the direction of Aries, are broken in one place by a skirt of + low hills. They are red and stony at first, but as you approach the Rhone, + they are of a dark gray mould, with a little sand, and very good. They are + in corn and clover, vines, olives, almonds, mulberries, and willow. There + are some sheep, no wood, no enclosures. + </p> + <p> + The high hills of Languedoc are covered with snow. At an ancient church, + in the suburbs of Aries, are some hundreds of ancient stone coffins, along + the road-side. The ground is thence called <i>Les Champs Elysees</i>. In a + vault in a church, are some curiously wrought, and in a back yard are many + ancient statues, inscriptions, &c. Within the town are a part of two + Corinthian columns, and of the pediment with which they were crowned, very + rich, having belonged to the ancient capitol of the place. + </p> + <p> + But the principal monument here, is an amphitheatre, the external portico + of which is tolerably complete. How many porticoes there were, cannot be + seen; but at one of the principal gates there are still five, measuring, + from out to in, seventy-eight feet, ten inches, the vault diminishing + inwards. There are sixty-four arches, each of which is, from centre to + centre, twenty feet, six inches. Of course, the diameter is of four + hundred and thirty-eight feet; or of four hundred and fifty feet, if we + suppose the four principal arches a little larger than the rest. The + ground floor is supported on innumerable vaults. The first story, + externally, has a tall pedestal, like a pilaster, between every two + arches; the upper story, a column, the base of which would indicate it + Corinthian. Every column is truncated as low as the impost of the arch, + but the arches are all entire. The whole of the upper entablature is gone, + and of the Attic, if there was one. Not a single seat of the internal is + visible. The whole of the inside, and nearly the whole of the outside, is + masked by buildings. It is supposed there are one thousand inhabitants + within the amphitheatre. The walls are more entire and firm than those of + the <i>ampitheatre</i> at Nismes. I suspect its plan and distribution to + have been very different from that. + </p> + <p> + <i>Terrasson</i>. The plains of the Rhone from Arles to this place, are a + league or two wide; the mould is of a dark gray, good, in corn and + lucerne. Neither wood, nor enclosures. Many sheep. + </p> + <p> + <i>St. Remy</i>. From Terrasson to St. Remy, is a plain of a league or two + wide, bordered by broken hills of massive rock. It is gray and stony, + mostly in olives. Some almonds, mulberries, willows, vines, corn, and + lucerne. Many sheep. No forest, nor enclosures. + </p> + <p> + A laboring man’s wages here, are one hundred and fifty livres, a woman’s + half, and fed. Two hundred and eighty pounds of wheat sell for forty-two + livres. They make no butter here. It costs, when brought, fifteen sous the + pound. Oil is ten sous the pound. Tolerably good olive trees yield, one + with another, about twenty pounds of oil. An olive tree must be twenty + years old before it has paid its own expenses. It lasts for ever. In 1765, + it was so cold, that the Rhone was frozen over at Aries for two months. In + 1767, there was a cold spell of a week, which killed all the olive trees. + From being fine weather, in one hour there was ice hard enough to bear a + horse. It killed people on the road. The old roots of the olive trees put + out again. Olive grounds sell for twenty-four livres a tree, and lease at + twenty-four sous the tree. The trees are fifteen pieds apart. But lucerne + is a more profitable culture. An arpent yields one hundred quintals of hay + a year, worth three livres the quintal. It is cut four or five times a + year. It is sowed in the broadcast, and lasts five or six years. An arpent + of ground for corn rents at from thirty to thirty-six livres. Their leases + are for six or nine years. They plant willow for fire-wood, and for hoops + to their casks. It seldom rains here in summer. There are some chateaux, + many separate farm-houses, good, and ornamented in the small way, so as to + show that the tenant’s whole time is not occupied in procuring physical + necessaries. + </p> + <p> + March 25. <i>Orgon. Pontroyal. St. Cannat</i>. From Orgon to Pontroyal, + after quitting the plains of the Rhone, the country seems still to be a + plain, cut into compartments by chains of mountains of massive rock, + running through it in various directions. From Pontroyal to St. Cannat, + the land lies rather in basins. The soil is very various, gray and clay, + gray and stony, red and stony; sometimes good, sometimes middling, often + barren. We find some golden willows. Towards Pontroyal, the hills begin to + be in vines and afterwards in some pasture of greensward and clover. About + Orgon are some enclosures of quick-set, others of conical yews planted + close. Towards St. Cannat, they begin to be of stone. + </p> + <p> + The high mountains are covered with snow. Some separate farm-houses of + mud. Near Pontroyal is a canal for watering the country; one branch goes + to Terrasson, the other to Arles. + </p> + <p> + March 25, 26, 27, 28. <i>Aix</i>. The country is waving, in vines, pasture + of greensward and clover, much enclosed with stone, and abounding with + sheep. + </p> + <p> + On approaching Aix, the valley which opens from thence towards the mouth + of the Rhone and the sea, is rich and beautiful; a perfect grove of olive + trees, mixed among which are corn, lucerne, and vines. The waste grounds + throw out thyme and lavender. Wheat bread is three sous the pound. Cow’s + milk sixteen sous the quart, sheep’s milk six sous, butter of sheep’s milk + twenty sous the pound. Oil, of the best quality, is twelve sous the pound, + and sixteen sous if it be virgin oil. This is what runs from the olive + when put into the press, spontaneously; afterwards they are forced by the + press and by hot water. Dung costs ten sous the one hundred pounds. Their + fire-wood is chene-vert and willow. The latter is lopped every three + years. An ass sells for from one to three louis; the best mules for thirty + louis. The best asses will carry two hundred pounds; the best horses three + hundred pounds; the best mules six hundred pounds. The temperature of the + mineral waters of Aix is 90° of Fahrenheit’s thermometer, at the spout. A + mule eats half as much as a horse. The allowance to an ass for the day, is + a handful of bran mixed with straw. The price of mutton and beef, about + six and a half sous the pound. The beef comes from Auvergne, and is poor + and bad. The mutton is small, but of excellent flavor. The wages of a + laboring man are one hundred and fifty livres the year, a woman’s sixty to + sixty-six livres, and fed. Their bread is half wheat, half rye, made once + in three or four weeks, to prevent too great a consumption. In the morning + they eat bread with an anchovy, or an onion. Their dinner in the middle of + the day is bread, soup, and vegetables. Their supper the same. With their + vegetables, they have always oil and vinegar. The oil costs about eight + sous the pound. They drink what is called <i>piquette</i>. This is made + after the grapes are pressed, by pouring hot water on the pumice. On + Sunday they have meat and wine. Their wood for building comes mostly from + the Alps, down the Durance and Rhone. A stick of pine, fifty feet long, + girting six feet and three inches at one end, and three feet three inches + at the other, costs, delivered here, from fifty-four to sixty livres. + Sixty pounds of wheat cost seven livres. One of their little asses will + travel with his burthen about five or six leagues a day, and day by day; a + mule from six to eight leagues.* + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + * It is twenty American miles from Aix to Marseilles, and + they call it five leagues. Their league, then, is of four + American miles. +</pre> + <p> + March 29. Marseilles. The country is hilly, intersected by chains of hills + and mountains of massive rock. The soil is reddish, stony, and indifferent + where best. Wherever there is any soil, it is covered with olives. Among + these are corn, vines, some lucerne, mulberry, some almonds, and willow. + Neither enclosures, nor forest. A very few sheep. + </p> + <p> + On the road I saw one of those little whirlwinds which we have in + Virginia, also some gullied hill-sides. The people are in separate + establishments. Ten morning observations of the thermometer, from the 20th + to the 31st of March inclusive, made at Nismes, St. Remy, Aix, and + Marseilles, give me an average of 52 1/2°, and 46° and 61°, for the + greatest and least morning heats. Nine afternoon observations, yield an + average of 62 2/3°, and 57° and 66°, the greatest and least. The longest + day here, from sunrise to sunset, is fifteen hours and fourteen minutes; + the shortest is eight hours and forty-six minutes; the latitude being + ————-. + </p> + <p> + There are no tides in the Mediterranean. It is observed to me, that the + olive tree grows nowhere more than thirty leagues distant from that sea. I + suppose, however, that both Spain and Portugal furnish proofs to the + contrary, and doubt its truth as to Asia, Africa, and America. They are + six or eight months at a time, here, without rain. The most delicate figs + known in Europe, are those growing about this place, called <i>figues + Marseilloises</i>, or <i>les veritables Marseilloises</i>, to distinguish + them from others of inferior quality growing here. These keep any length + of time. All others exude a sugar in the spring of the year, and become + sour. The only process for preserving them, is drying them in the sun, + without putting any thing to them whatever. They sell at fifteen sous the + pound, while there are others as cheap as five sous the pound. I meet here + a small dried grape from Smyrna, without a seed. There are few of the + plants growing in this neighborhood. The best grape for drying, known + here, is called <i>des Panses</i>. They are very large, with a thick skin + and much juice. They are best against a wall of southern aspect, as their + abundance of juice requires a great deal of sun to dry it. Pretty good fig + trees are about the size of the apricot tree, and yield about twenty + pounds of figs when dry, each. But the largest will yield the value of a + louis. They are sometimes fifteen inches in diameter. It is said that the + Marseilles fig degenerates when transported into any other part of the + country. The leaves of the mulberry tree will sell for about three livres, + the purchaser gathering them. The caper is a creeping plant. It is killed + to the roots every winter. In the spring it puts out branches, which creep + to the distance of three feet from the centre. The fruit forms on the + stem, as that extends itself, and must be gathered every day, as it forms. + This is the work of women. The pistache grows in this neighborhood also, + but not very good. They eat them in their milky state. Monsieur de + Bergasse has a wine-cellar two hundred and forty <i>pieds</i> long, in + which are one hundred and twenty tons, of from fifty to one hundred <i>pièces</i> + each. These tons are twelve <i>pieds</i> diameter, the staves four inches + thick, the heading two and a half <i>pouces</i> thick. The temperature of + his cellar is of 9 1/2° of Reaumur. The best method of packing wine, when + bottled, is to lay the bottles on their side, and cover them with sand. + The 2d of April, the young figs are formed; the 4th we have Windsor beans. + They have had asparagus ever since the middle of March. The 5th, I see + strawberries and the Guelder rose in blossom. To preserve the raisin, it + is first dipped into ley, and then dried in the sun. The aloe grows in the + open ground. I measure a mule, not the largest, five feet and two inches + high. Marseilles is in an amphitheatre, at the mouth of the Veaune, + surrounded by high mountains of naked rock, distant two or three leagues. + The country within that amphitheatre is a mixture of small hills, vallies, + and plains. The latter are naturally rich. The hills and vallies are + forced into production. Looking from the <i>Chateau de Notre Dame de la + Garde</i>, it would seem as if there was a <i>bastide</i> for every + arpent. The plain-lands sell for one hundred louis the <i>carterelle</i>, + which is less than an acre. The ground of the arsenal in Marseilles sold + for from fifteen to forty louis the square verge, being nearly the square + yard English. In the fields open to the sea, they are obliged to plant + rows of canes, every here and there, to break the force of the wind. Saw + at the Chateau Borelli pumps worked by the wind. + </p> + <p> + April 6. From <i>Marseilles</i> to <i>Aubagne</i>. A valley on the Veaune, + bordered on each side by high mountains of massive rock, on which are only + some small pines. The interjacent valley is of small hills, vallies, and + plains, reddish, gravelly, and originally poor, but fertilized by art, and + covered with corn, vines, olives, figs, almonds, mulberries, lucerne, and + clover. The river is twelve or fifteen feet wide, one or two feet deep, + and rapid. + </p> + <p> + From <i>Aubagne</i> to <i>Cuges, Beausset, Toulon</i>. The road, quitting + the Veaune and its wealthy valley, a little after Aubagne, enters those + mountains of rock, and is engaged with them about a dozen miles. Then it + passes six or eight miles through a country still very hilly and stony, + but laid up in terraces, covered with olives, vines, and corn. It then + follows for two or three miles a hollow between two of those high + mountains, which has been, found or made by a small stream. The mountains + then reclining a little from their perpendicular, and presenting a coat of + soil, reddish, and tolerably good, have given place to the little village + of Olioules, in the gardens of which are oranges in the open ground. It + continues hilly till we enter the plain of Toulon. On different parts of + this road there are figs in the open fields. At Cuges is a plain of about + three fourths of a mile diameter, surrounded by high mountains of rock. In + this the caper is principally cultivated. The soil is mulatto, gravelly, + and of middling quality, or rather indifferent. The plants are set in <i>quincunx</i>, + about eight feet apart. They have been covered during winter by a hill of + earth a foot high. They are now enclosing, pruning, and ploughing them. + </p> + <p> + <i>Toulon</i>. From Olioules to Toulon the figs are in the open fields. + Some of them have stems of fifteen inches diameter. They generally fork + near the ground, but sometimes have a single stem of five feet long. They + are as large as apricot trees. The olive trees of this day’s journey are + about the size of large apple trees. The people are in separate + establishments. Toulon is in a valley at the mouth of the Goutier, a + little river of the size of the Veaune; surrounded by high mountains of + naked rock, leaving some space between them and the sea. This space is + hilly, reddish, gravelly, and of middling quality, in olives, vines, corn, + almonds, figs, and capers. The capers are planted eight feet apart. A bush + yields, one year with another, two pounds, worth twelve sous the pound. + Every plant, then, yields twenty-four sous, equal to one shilling + sterling. An acre, containing six hundred and seventy-six plants, would + yield thirty-three pounds sixteen shillings sterling. The fruit is + gathered by women, who can gather about twelve pounds a day. They begin to + gather about the last of June, and end about the middle of October. Each + plant must be picked every day. These plants grow equally well in the best + or worst soil, or even in the walls, where there is no soil. They will + last the life of a man, or longer. The heat is so great at Toulon in + summer, as to occasion very great cracks in the earth. Where the caper is + in a soil that will admit it, they plough it. They have pease here through + the winter, sheltering them occasionally; and they have had them ever + since the 25th of March, without shelter. + </p> + <p> + April 6. <i>Hieres</i>. This is a plain of two or three miles diameter, + bounded by the sea on one side, and mountains of rock on the other. The + soil is reddish, gravelly, tolerably good, and well watered. It is in + olives, mulberries, vines, figs, corn, and some flax. There are also some + cherry trees. From Hieres to the sea, which is two or three miles, is a + grove of orange trees, olives, and mulberries. The largest orange tree is + of two feet diameter one way, and one foot the other (for the section of + all the larger ones would be an oval, not a round), and about twenty feet + high. Such a tree will yield about six thousand oranges a year. The garden + of M. Fille has fifteen thousand six hundred orange, trees. Some years + they yield forty thousand livres, some only ten thousand; but generally + about twenty-five thousand. The trees are from eight to ten feet apart. + They are blossoming and bearing, all the year, flowers and fruit in every + stage at the same time. But the best fruit is that which is gathered in + April and May. Hieres is a village of about five thousand inhabitants, at + the foot of a mountain, which covers it from the north, and from which + extends a plain of two or three miles to the sea-shore. It has no port. + Here are palm trees twenty or thirty feet high, but they bear no fruit. + There is also a botanical garden kept by the King. Considerable salt-ponds + here. Hieres is six miles from the public road. It is built on a narrow + spur of the mountain. The streets in every direction are steep, in steps + of stairs, and about eight feet wide. No carriage of any kind can enter + it. The wealthier inhabitants use <i>chaises Ă porteurs</i>. But there are + few wealthy, the bulk of the inhabitants being laborers of the earth. At a + league’s distance in the sea is an island, on which is the Chateau de + GĂ©ans, belonging to the Marquis de Pontoives: there is a causeway leading + to it. The cold of the last November killed the leaves of a great number + of the orange-trees, and some of the trees themselves. + </p> + <p> + From Hieres to <i>Cuers, Pignans, Luc</i>, is mostly a plain, with + mountains on each hand at a mile or two distance. The soil is generally + reddish, and the latter part very red and good. The growth is olives, + figs, vines, mulberries, corn, clover, and lucerne. The olive trees are + from three to four feet in diameter. There are hedges of pomegranates, + sweet-briar, and broom. A great deal of thyme growing wild. There are some + enclosures of stone; some sheep and goats. + </p> + <p> + April 9. From Luc to <i>Vidavban, Muy, Frejus</i>, the road leads through + vallies, and crosses occasionally the mountains which separate them. The + vallies are tolerably good, always red and stony, gravelly or gritty. + Their produce as before. The mountains are barren. + </p> + <p> + <i>Lesterelle, Napoule</i>. Eighteen miles of ascent and descent of a very + high mountain. Its growth, where capable of any, two-leaved pine, very + small, and some chĂŞne vert. + </p> + <p> + <i>Antibes, Nice</i>. From Napoule the road is generally near the sea, + passing over little hills or strings of vallies, the soil stony, and much + below mediocrity in its quality. Here and there is a good plain. + </p> + <p> + There is snow on the high mountains. The first frogs I have heard are of + this day (the 9th). At Antibes are oranges in the open ground, but in + small enclosures; palm trees also. From thence to the Var are the largest + fig trees and olive trees I have seen. The fig trees are eighteen inches + in diameter, and six feet stem; the olives sometimes six feet in diameter, + and as large heads as the largest low-ground apple trees. This tree was + but a shrub where I first fell in with it, and has become larger and + larger to this place. The people are mostly in villages. The several + provinces, and even cantons, are distinguished by the form of the women’s + hats, so that one may know of what canton a woman is by her hat. + </p> + <p> + <i>Nice</i>. The pine-bur is used here for kindling fires. The people are + in separate establishments. With respect to the orange, there seems to be + no climate on this side of the Alps sufficiently mild in itself to + preserve it without shelter. At Olioules they are between two high + mountains; at Hieres covered on the north by a very high mountain; at + Antibes and Nice covered by mountains, and also within small, high + enclosures. <i>Quære</i>. To trace the true line from east to west, which + forms the northern and natural limit of that fruit? Saw an elder tree + (sambucus) near Nice, fifteen inches in diameter, and eight feet stem. The + wine made in this neighborhood is good, though not of the first quality. + There are one thousand mules, loaded with merchandise, which pass every + week between Nice and Turin, counting those coming as well as going. + </p> + <p> + April 13. <i>Scarena. Sospello</i>. There are no orange trees after we + leave the environs of Nice. We lose the olive after rising a little above + the village of Scarena, on Mount Braus, and find it again on the other + side, a little before we get down to Sospello. But wherever there is soil + enough it is terraced, and in corn. The waste parts are either in + two-leaved pine and thyme, or of absolutely naked rock. Sospello is on a + little torrent, called Bevera, which runs into the river Roia, at the + mouth of which is Ventimiglia. The olive trees on the mountain are now + loaded with fruit; while some at Sospello are in blossom. Fire-wood here + and at Scarena costs fifteen sous the quintal. + </p> + <p> + April 14. <i>Ciandola. Tende</i>. In crossing Mount Brois we lose the + olive tree after getting to a certain height, and find it again on the + other side at the village of Breglio. Here we come to the river Roia, + which, after receiving the branch on which is Sospello, leads to the sea + at Ventimiglia. The Roia is about twelve yards wide, and abounds with + speckled trout. Were a road made from Breglio, along the side of the Roia + to Ventimiglia, it might turn the commerce of Turin to this last place + instead of Nice; because it would avoid the mountains of Braus and Brois, + leaving only that of Tende; that is to say, it would avoid more than half + the difficulties of the passage. Further on, we come to the Chateau di + Saorgio, where a scene is presented the most singular and picturesque I + ever saw. The castle and village seem hanging to a cloud in front. On the + right is a mountain cloven through, to let pass a gurgling stream; on the + left, a river, over which is thrown a magnificent bridge. The whole forms + a basin, the sides of which are shagged with rocks, olive trees, vines, + herds, &c. Near here I saw a tub-wheel without a ream; the trunk + descended from the top of the water-fall to the wheel in a direct line, + but with the usual inclination. The produce along this passage is most + generally olives, except on the heights as before observed; also corn, + vines, mulberries, figs, cherries, and walnuts. They have cows, goats, and + sheep. In passing on towards Tende, olives fail us ultimately at the + village of Fontan, and there the chestnut trees begin in good quantity. + Ciandola consists of only two houses, both taverns. Tende is a very + inconsiderable village, in which they have not yet the luxury of glass + windows: nor in any of the villages on this passage have they yet the + fashion of powdering the hair. Common stone and limestone are so abundant, + that the apartments of every story are vaulted with stone to save wood. + </p> + <p> + April 15. <i>Limone. Coni</i>. I see abundance of lime-stone as far as the + earth is uncovered with snow; i.e. within half or three quarters of an + hour’s walk of the top. The snows descend much lower on the eastern than + western side. Wherever there is soil, there is corn quite to the + commencement of the snows, and I suppose under them also. The waste parts + are in two-leaved pine, lavender, and thyme. From the foot of the mountain + to Coni the road follows a branch of the Po, the plains of which begin + narrow, and widen at length into a general plain country, bounded on one + side by the Alps. They are good, dark-colored, sometimes tinged with red, + and in pasture, corn, mulberries, and some almonds. The hill-sides + bordering these plains are reddish, and where they admit of it are in + corn; but this is seldom. They are mostly in chestnut, and often + absolutely barren. The whole of the plains are plentifully watered from + the river, as is much of the hill-side. A great deal of golden willow all + along the rivers on the whole of this passage through the Alps. The + southern parts of France, but still more the passage through the Alps, + enable one to form a scale of the tenderer plants, arranging them + according to their several powers of resisting cold. Ascending three + different mountains, Braus, Brois, and Tende, they disappear one after + another: and descending on the other side, they show themselves again one + after another. This is their order, from the tenderest to the hardiest. + Caper, orange, palm, aloe, olive, pomegranate, walnut, fig, almond. But + this must be understood of the plant; for as to the fruit, the order is + somewhat different. The caper, for example, is the tenderest plant, yet + being so easily protected, it is the most certain in its fruit. The + almond, the hardiest plant, loses its fruit the oftenest on account of its + forwardness. The palm, hardier than the caper and the orange, never + produces perfect fruit in these parts. Coni is a considerable town, and + pretty well built. It is walled. + </p> + <p> + April 16. <i>Centale. Savigliano. Racconigi. Poirino. Turin</i>. The Alps, + as far as they are in view from north to south, show the gradation of + climate by the line which terminates the snows lying on them. This line + begins at their foot northwardly, and rises as they pass on to the south, + so as to be half way up their sides on the most southern undulations of + the mountain now in view. From the mountains to Turin we see no tree + tenderer than the walnut. Of these, as well as of almonds and mulberries, + there are a few: somewhat more of vines, but most generally willows and + poplars. Corn is sowed with all these. They mix with them also clover and + small grass. The country is a general plain; the soil dark, and sometimes, + though rarely, reddish. It is rich, and much infested with wild onions. At + Racconigi I see the tops and shocks of maize, which prove it is cultivated + here: but it can be in small quantities only, because I observe very + little ground but what has already something else in it. Here and there + are small patches prepared, I suppose, for maize. They have a method of + planting the vine, which I have not seen before. At intervals of about + eight feet they plant from two to six plants of vine in a cluster At each + cluster they fix a forked staff, the plane of the prongs of the fork at a + right angle with the row of vines. Athwart these prongs they lash another + staff, like a handspike, about eight feet long, horizontally, seven or + eight feet from the ground. Of course, it crosses the rows at right + angles. The vines are brought from the foot of the fork up to this + cross-piece, turned over it, and conducted along over the next, the next, + and so on, as far as they will extend, the whole forming an arbor eight + feet wide and high and of the whole length of the row, little interrupted + by the stems of the vines, which being close around the fork, pass up + through hoops, so as to occupy a space only of small diameter. All the + buildings in this country are of brick, sometimes covered with plaister, + sometimes not. There is a very large and handsome bridge, of seven arches, + over the torrent of Sangone. We cross the Po in swinging batteaux. Two are + placed side by side, and kept together by a plank-floor, common to both, + and lying on the gunwales. The carriage drives on this, without taking out + any of the horses. About one hundred and fifty yards up the river is a + fixed stake, and a rope tied to it, the other end of which is made fast to + one side of the batteaux, so as to throw them oblique to the current. The + stream then acting on them, as on an inclined plane, forces them across + the current in the portion of a circle, of which the rope is the radius. + To support the rope in its whole length, there are two intermediate + canoes, about fifty yards apart, in the heads of which are short masts. To + the top of these the rope is lashed, the canoes being free otherwise to + concur with the general vibration in their smaller arcs of circles. The Po + is there about fifty yards wide, and about one hundred in the neighborhood + of Turin. + </p> + <p> + April 17, 18. <i>Turin</i>. The first nightingale I have heard this year + is to-day (18th). There is a red wine of Nebiule made in this + neighborhood, which is very singular. It is about as sweet as the silky + Madeira, as astringent on the palate as Bordeaux, and as brisk as + Champagne. It is a pleasing wine. At Moncaglieri, about six miles from + Turin, on the right side of the Po, begins a ridge of mountains, which, + following the Po by Turin, after some distance, spreads wide, and forms + the duchy of Montferrat. The soil is mostly red, and in vines, affording a + wine called Montferrat, which is thick and strong. + </p> + <p> + April 19. <i>Settimo. Chivasso. Ciliano. S. Germano. Vercelli</i>. The + country continues plain and rich, the soil black. The culture, corn, + pasture, maize, vines, mulberries, walnuts, some willow, and poplar. The + maize bears a very small proportion to the small grain. The earth is + formed into ridges from three to four feet wide, and the maize sowed in + the broad-cast, on the higher parts of the ridge, so as to cover a third + or half of the whole surface. It is sowed late in May. This country is + plentifully and beautifully watered at present. Much of it is by torrents, + which are dry in summer. These torrents make a great deal of waste ground, + covering it with sand and stones. These wastes are sometimes planted in + trees, sometimes quite unemployed. They make hedges of willows, by setting + the plants from one to three feet apart. When they are grown to the height + of eight or ten feet, they bend them down, and interlace them one with + another. I do not see any of these, however, which are become old. + Probably, therefore, they soon die. The women here smite on the anvil, and + work with the maul and spade. The people of this country are ill dressed + in comparison with those of France, and there are more spots of + uncultivated ground. The plough here is made with a single handle, which + is a beam twelve feet long, six inches in diameter below, and tapered to + about two inches at the upper end. They use goads for the oxen, not whips. + The first swallows I have seen are to-day. There is a wine called Gatina, + made in the neighborhood of Vercelli, both red and white. The latter + resembles Calcavallo. There is also a red wine of Salusola, which is + esteemed. It is very light. In the neighborhood of Vercelli begin the + rice-fields. The water with which they are watered is very dear. They do + not permit rice to be sown within two miles of the cities, on account of + the insalubrity. Notwithstanding this, when the water is drawn off the + fields, in August, the whole country is subject to agues and fevers. They + estimate, that the same measure of ground yields three times as much rice + as wheat, and with half the labor. They are now sowing. As soon as sowed, + they let on the water two or three inches deep. After six weeks, or two + months, they draw it off to weed; then let it on again, and it remains + till August, when it is drawn off, about three or four weeks before the + grain is ripe. In September they cut it. It is first threshed; then beaten + in the mortar to separate the husk; then, by different siftings, it is + separated into three qualities. Twelve rupes, equal to three hundred + pounds of twelve ounces each, sell for sixteen livres, money of Piedmont, + where the livre is exactly the shilling of England. Twelve rupes of maize + sell for nine livres. The machine for separating the husk is thus made. In + the axis of a water-wheel are a number of arms inserted, which, as they + revolve, catches each the cog of a pestle, lifts it to a certain height, + and lets it fall again. These pestles are five and a quarter inches + square, ten feet long, and at their lower end formed into a truncated cone + of three inches diameter, where cut off. The conical part is covered with + iron. The pestles are ten and a half inches apart in the clear. They pass + through two horizontal beams, which string them, as it were, together, and + while the mortises in the beams are so loose, as to let the pestles work + vertically, it restrains them to that motion. There is a mortar of wood, + twelve or fifteen inches deep, under each pestle, covered with a board, + the hole of which is only large enough to let the pestle pass freely. + There are two arms in the axis for every pestle, so that the pestle gives + two strokes for every revolution of the wheel. Poggio, a muleteer, who + passes every week between Vercelli and Genoa, will smuggle a sack of rough + rice for me to, Genoa; it being death to export it in that form. They have + good cattle, and in good number, mostly cream-colored; and some + middle-sized sheep. The streams furnish speckled trout. + </p> + <p> + April 20. <i>Novara. Buffalora. Sedriano. Milan</i>. From Vercelli to + Novara the fields are all in rice, and now mostly under water. The dams + separating the several water-plats or ponds, are set in willow. At Novara + there are some figs in the gardens in situations well protected. From + Novara to the Ticino it is mostly stony and waste, grown up in broom. From + Ticino to Milan it is all in corn. Among the corn are willows, + principally, a good many mulberries, some walnuts, and here and there an + almond. The country still a plain, the soil black and rich, except between + Novara and the Ticino, as before mentioned. There is very fine pasture + round Vercelli and Novara to the distance of two miles, within which rice + is not permitted. We cross the Sisto on the same kind of vibrating or + pendulum boat as on the Po. The river is eighty or ninety yards wide; the + rope fastened to an island two hundred yards above, and supported by five + intermediate canoes. It is about one and a half inches in diameter. On + these rivers they use a short oar of twelve feet long, the flat end of + which is hooped with iron, shooting out a prong at each corner, so that it + may be used occasionally as a setting-pole. There is snow on the + Apennines, near Genoa. They have still another method here of planting the + vine. Along rows of trees, they lash poles from tree to tree. Between the + trees, are set vines, which, passing over the pole, are carried on to the + pole of the, next tree, whose vines are in like manner brought to this, + and twined together; thus forming the intervals between the rows of trees, + alternately, into arbors and open space. They have another method also of + making quick-set hedges. Willows are planted from one to two feet apart, + and interlaced, so that every one is crossed by three or four others. + </p> + <p> + April 21, 22. <i>Milan</i>. Figs and pomegranates grow here, unsheltered, + as I am told. I saw none, and therefore suppose them rare. They had + formerly olives; but a great cold, in 1709, killed them, and they have not + been replanted. Among a great many houses painted <i>al fresco</i>, the + Casa Roma and Casa Candiani, by Appiani, and Casa Belgioiosa, by Martin, + are superior. In the second, is a small cabinet, the ceiling of which is + in small hexagons, within which are cameos and heads painted alternately, + no two the same. The <i>salon</i> of the Casa-Belgioiosa is superior to + any thing 1 have ever seen. The mixture called <i>scagliuola</i>, of which + they make their walls and floors, is so like the finest marble, as to be + scarcely distinguishable from it. The nights of the 20th and 21st instant, + the rice ponds froze half an inch thick. Droughts of two or three months + are not uncommon here, in summer. About five years ago, there was such a + hail as to kill cats. The Count del Verme tells me of a pendulum odometer + for the wheel of a carriage. Leases here are mostly for nine years. Wheat + costs a louis d’or the one hundred and forty pounds. A laboring man + receives sixty livres, and is fed and lodged. The trade of this country is + principally rice, raw silk, and cheese. + </p> + <p> + April 23. <i>Casino</i>, five miles from Milan. I examined another + rice-beater of six pestles. They are eight feet nine inches long. Their + ends, instead of being a truncated cone, have nine teeth of iron, bound + closely together. Each tooth is a double pyramid, joined at the base. When + put together, they stand with the upper ends placed in contact, so as to + form them into one great cone, and the lower ends diverging. The upper are + socketed into the end of the pestle, and the lower, when a little blunted + by use, are not unlike the jaw-teeth of the mammoth, with their studs. + They say here, that pestles armed with these teeth, clean the rice faster, + and break it less. The mortar, too, is of stone, which is supposed as good + as wood, and more durable. One half of these pestles are always up. They + rise about twenty-one inches; and each makes thirty-eight strokes in a + minute; one hundred pounds of rough rice is put into the six mortars, and + beaten somewhat less than a quarter of an hour. It is then taken out, put + into a sifter of four feet diameter, suspended horizontally; sifted there; + shifted into another of the same size; sifted there; returned to the + mortars; beaten a little more than a quarter of an hour; sifted again; and + it is finished. The six pestles will clear four thousand pounds in + twenty-four hours. The pound here is twenty-eight ounces: the ounce equal + to that of Paris. The best rice requires half an hour’s boiling; a more + indifferent kind, somewhat less. To sow the rice, they first plough the + ground, then level it with a drag-harrow, and let on the water; when the + earth has become soft, they smooth it with a shovel under the water, and + then sow the rice in the water. + </p> + <p> + <i>Rozzano</i>. Parmesan cheese. It is supposed this was formerly made at + Parma, and took its name thence; but none is made there now. It is made + through all the country extending from Milan, for one hundred and fifty + miles. The most is made about Lodi. The making of butter being connected + with that of making cheese, both must be described together. There are, in + the stables I saw, eighty-five cows, fed on hay and grass, not on grain. + They are milked twice in twenty-four hours, ten cows yielding at the two + milkings a <i>brenta</i> of milk, which is twenty-four of our gallons. The + night’s milk is scummed in the morning at daybreak, when the cows are + milked again, and the new milk mixed with the old. In three hours, the + whole mass is scummed a second time, the milk remaining in a kettle for + cheese, and the cream being put into a cylindrical churn, shaped like a + grind-stone, eighteen inches radius, and fourteen inches thick. In this + churn, there are three staves pointing inwardly, endwise, to break the + current of the milk. Through its centre passes an iron axis, with a handle + at each end. It is turned, about an hour and an half, by two men, till the + butter is produced. Then they pour off the butter-milk, and put in some + water which they agitate backwards and forwards about a minute, and pour + it off. They take out the butter, press it with their hands into loaves, + and stamp it. It has no other washing. Sixteen American gallons of milk + yield fifteen pounds of butter, which sell at twenty-four sous the pound. + </p> + <p> + The milk, which, after being scummed as before, had been put into a copper + kettle, receives its due quantity of rennet, and is gently warmed, if the + season requires it. In about four hours, it becomes a slip. Then the whey + begins to separate. A little, of it is taken out. The curd is then + thoroughly broken by a machine like a chocolate-mill. A quarter of an + ounce of saffron is put to seven brentas of milk, to give color to the + cheese. The kettle is then moved over the hearth, and heated by a quick + fire till the curd is hard enough, being broken into small lumps by + continued stirring. It is moved off the fire, most of the whey taken out, + the curd compressed into a globe by the hand, a linen cloth slipped under + it, and it is drawn out in that. A loose hoop is then laid on a bench, and + the curd, as wrapped in the linen, is put into the hoop: it is a little + pressed by the hand, the hoop drawn tight, and made fast. A board, two + inches thick, is laid on it, and a stone on that, of about twenty pounds + weight. In an hour, the whey is run off, and the cheese finished. They + sprinkle a little salt on it every other day in summer, and every day in + winter, for six weeks. Seven <i>brentas</i> of milk make a cheese of fifty + pounds, which requires six months to ripen, and is then dried to + forty-five pounds. It sells on the spot for eighty-eight livres, the one + hundred pounds. There are now one hundred and fifty cheeses in this dairy. + They are nineteen inches diameter, and six inches thick. They make a + cheese a day, in summer, and two in three days, or one in two days, in + winter. + </p> + <p> + The whey is put back into the kettle, the butter-milk poured into it, and + of this, they make a poor cheese for the country people. The whey of this + is given to the hogs. Eight men suffice to keep the cows, and to do all + the business of this dairy. <i>Mascarponi</i>, a kind of curd, is made by + pouring some butter-milk into cream, which is thereby curdled, and is then + pressed in a linen cloth. + </p> + <p> + The ice-houses at Rozzano are dug about fifteen feet deep, and twenty feet + diameter, and poles are driven down all round. A conical thatched roof is + then put over them, fifteen feet high, and pieces of wood are laid at + bottom, to keep the ice out of the water which drips from it, and goes off + by a sink. Straw is laid on this wood, and then the house filled with ice, + always putting straw between the ice and the walls, and covering + ultimately with straw. About a third is lost by melting. Snow gives the + most delicate flavor to creams; but ice is the most powerful congealer, + and lasts longest. A tuft of trees surrounds these ice-houses. + </p> + <p> + Round Milan, to the distance of five miles, are corn, pasture, gardens, + mulberries, willows, and vines. For, in this state, rice ponds are not + permitted within five miles of the cities. + </p> + <p> + <i>Binasco. Pavia</i>. Near Casino the rice-ponds begin, and continue to + within five miles of Pavia, the whole ground being in rice, pasture, and + willows. The pasture is in the rice grounds which are resting. In the + neighborhood of Pavia, again, are corn, pasture, &c. as round Milan. + They gave me green pease at Pavia. + </p> + <p> + April 24. <i>Voghera. Tortona. Novi</i>. From Pavia to Novi corn, pasture, + vines, mulberries, willows; but no rice. The country continues plain, + except that the Apennines are approaching on the left. The soil, always + good, is dark till we approach Novi, and then red. We cross the Po where + it is three hundred yards wide, in a pendulum boat. The rope is fastened + on one side of the river, three hundred yards above, and supported by + eight intermediate canoes, with little masts in them to give a greater + elevation to the rope. We pass in eleven minutes. Women, girls, and boys + are working with the hoe, and breaking the clods with mauls. + </p> + <p> + April 25. <i>Voltaggio. Campo-Marone. Genoa</i>. At Novi, the Apennines + begin to rise. Their growth of timber is oak, tall, small, and knotty, and + chestnut. We soon lose the walnut, ascending, and find it again, about one + fourth of the way down, on the south side. About halfway down, we find + figs and vines, which continue fine and in great abundance. The Apennines + are mostly covered with soil, and are in corn, pasture, mulberries and + figs, in the parts before indicated. About half way from their foot to + Genoa, at Campo-Marone, we find again the olive tree. Hence the produce + becomes mixed, of all the kinds before mentioned. The method of sowing the + Indian corn at Campo-Marone, is as follows. With a hoe shaped like the + blade of a trowel, two feet long, and six inches broad at its upper end, + pointed below, and a little curved, they make a trench. In that, they drop + the grains six inches apart. Then two feet from that, they make another + trench, throwing the earth they take out of that on the grain of the last + one, with a singular slight and quickness; and so through the whole piece. + The last trench is filled with the earth adjoining. + </p> + <p> + April 26. <i>Genoa</i>. Strawberries at Genoa. Scaffold poles for the + upper parts of a wall, as for the third story, rest on the window sills of + the story below. Slate is used here for paving, for steps, for stairs (the + rise as well as tread), and for fixed Venetian blinds. At the Palazzo + Marcello Durazzo, benches with straight legs, and bottoms of cane. At the + Palazzo del Prencipe Lomellino, at Sestri, a phaeton with a canopy. At the + former, tables folding into one plane. At Nervi they have pease, + strawberries, &c. all the year round. The gardens of the Count Durazzo + at Nervi, exhibit as rich a mixture of the <i>utile dulci</i>, as I ever + saw. All the environs in Genoa are in olives, figs, oranges, mulberries, + corn, and garden-stuff. Aloes in many places, but they never flower. + </p> + <p> + April 28. <i>Noli</i>. The Apennine and Alps appear to me to be one and + the same continued ridge of mountains, separating every where the waters + of the Adriatic Gulf from those of the Mediterranean. Where it forms an + elbow, touching the Mediterranean, as a smaller circle touches a larger, + within which it is inscribed, in the manner of a tangent, the name changes + from Alps to Apennine. It is the beginning of the Apennine which + constitutes the state of Genoa, the mountains there generally falling down + in barren, naked precipices into the sea. Wherever there is soil on the + lower parts, it is principally in olives and figs, in vines also, + mulberries, and corn. Where there are hollows well protected, there are + oranges. This is the case at Golfo della Spezia, Sestri, Bugiasco, Nervi, + Genoa, Pegli, Savona, Finale, Oneglia (where there are abundance), St. + Rerno, Ventimiglia, Mentone, and Monaco. Noli, into which I was obliged to + put, by a change of wind, is forty miles from Genoa. There are twelve + hundred inhabitants in the village, and many separate houses round about. + One of the precipices hanging over the sea, is covered with aloes. But + neither here, nor any where else I have been, could I procure satisfactory + information that they ever flower. The current of testimony is to the + contrary. Noli furnishes many fishermen. Paths penetrate up into the + mountains in several directions, about three fourths of a mile; but these + are practicable only for asses and mules. I saw no cattle nor sheep in the + settlement. The wine they make, is white and indifferent. A curious cruet + for oil and vinegar in one piece, I saw here. A bishop resides here, whose + revenue is two thousand livres, equal to sixty-six guineas. I heard a + nightingale here. + </p> + <p> + April 29. <i>Albenga</i>. In walking along the shore from Louano to this + place, I saw no appearance of shells. The tops of the mountains are + covered with snow, while there are olive trees, &c. on the lower + parts. I do not remember to have seen assigned any where, the cause of the + apparent color of the sea. Its water is generally clear and colorless, if + taken up and viewed in a glass. That of the Mediterranean is remarkably + so. Yet in the mass, it assumes, <i>by reflection</i>, the color of the + sky or atmosphere, black, green, blue, according to the state of the + weather. If any person wished to retire from his acquaintance, to live + absolutely unknown, and yet in the midst of physical enjoyments, it should + be in some of the little villages of this coast, where air, water, and + earth concur to offer what each has, most precious. Here are nightingales, + beccaficas, ortolans, pheasants, partridges, quails, a superb climate, and + the power of changing it from summer to winter at any moment, by ascending + the mountains. The earth furnishes wine, oil, figs, oranges, and every + production of the garden, in every season. The sea yields lobsters, crabs, + oysters, tunny, sardines, anchovies, &c. Ortolans sell, at this time, + at thirty sous, equal to one shilling sterling, the dozen. At this season, + they must be fattened. Through the whole of my route from Marseilles, I + observe they plant a great deal of cane or reed, which is convenient while + growing, as a cover from the cold and boisterous winds, and when cut, it + serves for espaliers to vines, pease, &c. Through Piedmont, Lombardy, + the Milanese, and Genoese, the garden bean is a great article of culture; + almost as much so as corn. At Albenga, is a rich plain opening from + between two ridges of mountains, triangularly, to the sea, and of several + miles extent. Its growth is olives, figs, mulberries, vines, corn, and + beans. There is some pasture. A bishop resides here, whose revenue is + forty thousand livres. This place is said to be rendered unhealthy in + summer, by the river which passes through the valley. + </p> + <p> + April 30. <i>Oneglia</i>. The wind continuing contrary, I took mules at + Albenga for Oneglia. Along this tract are many of the tree called <i>caroubier</i>, + being a species of locust. It is the <i>ceratonia siliqua</i> of Linnaeus. + Its pods furnish food for horses, and also for the poor, in time of + scarcity. It abounds in Naples and Spain. Oneglia and Port Maurice, which + are within a mile of each other, are considerable places, and in a rich + country. At St. Remo, are abundance of oranges and lemons, and some palm + trees. + </p> + <p> + May 1. <i>Ventimiglia. Mentone. Monaco. Nice</i>. At Bordighera, between + Ventimiglia and Mentone, are extensive plantations of palms, on the hill + as well as in the plain. They bring fruit, but it does not ripen. + Something is made of the midrib which is in great demand at Rome, on the + Palm Sunday, and which renders this tree profitable here. From Mentone to + Monaco, there is more good land, and extensive groves of oranges and + lemons. Orange water sells here at forty sous, equal to sixteen pence + sterling, the American quart. The distances on this coast are, from La + Spezia, at the eastern end of the territories of Genoa, to Genoa, + fifty-five miles, geometrical; to Savona, thirty; Albenga, thirty; + Oneglia, twenty; Ventimiglia, twenty-five; Monaco, ten; Nice, ten; in the + whole, one hundred and eighty miles. A superb road might be made along the + margin of the sea from La Spezai, where the champaign country of Italy + opens, to Nice, where the Alps go off northwardly, and the post roads of + France begin; and it might even follow the margin of the sea quite to + Cette. By this road, travellers would enter Italy without crossing the + Alps, and all the little insulated villages of the Genoese would + communicate together, and in time, form one continued village along that + road. + </p> + <p> + May 3. <i>Luc, Brignoles. Tourves. Pourcieux. La Galiniere</i>. Long, + small mountains, very rocky, the soil reddish, from bad to middling; in + olives, grapes, mulberries, vines, and corn. Brignolles is an extensive + plain, between two ridges of mountains, and along a water-course which + continues to Tourves. Thence to Pourcieux we cross a mountain, low and + easy. The country is rocky and poor. To La Galiniere are waving grounds, + bounded by mountains of rock at a little distance. There are some + enclosures of dry wall from Luc to La Galiniere; also, sheep and hogs. + There is snow on the high mountains. I see no plums in the vicinities of + Brignoles; which makes me conjecture that the celebrated plum of that name + is not derived from this place. + </p> + <p> + May 8. <i>Orgon. Avignon. Vaucluse</i>. Orgon is on the Durance. From + thence, its plain opens till it becomes common with that of the Rhone; so + that from Orgon to Avignon is entirely a plain of rich dark loam, which is + in willows, mulberries, vines, corn, and pasture. A very few figs. I see + no olives in this plain. Probably the cold winds have too much power here. + From the Bac de Nova (where we cross the Durance) to Avignon, is about + nine American miles; and from the same Bac to Vaucluse, eleven miles. In + the valley of Vaucluse, and on the hills impending over it, are olive + trees. The stream issuing from the fountain of Vaucluse is about twenty + yards wide, four or five feet deep, and of such rapidity that it could not + be stemmed by a canoe. They are now mowing hay, and gathering mulberry + leaves. The high mountains just back of Vaucluse, are covered with snow. + Fine trout in the stream of Vaucluse, and the valley abounds peculiarly + with nightingales. The <i>vin blanc</i> de M. de Rochequde of Avignon, + resembles dry Lisbon. He sells it, at six years old, for twenty-two sous + the bottle, the price of the bottle, &c. included. + </p> + <p> + <i>Avignon. Remoulins</i>. Some good plains, but generally hills, stony + and poor. In olives, mulberries, vines, and corn. Where it is waste the + growth is <i>chĂ©ne-vert</i>, box, furze, thyme, and rosemary. + </p> + <p> + May 10. <i>Lismes. Lunel</i>. Hills on the right, plains on the left. The + soil reddish, a little stony, and of middling quality. The produce, + olives, mulberries, vines, corn, saintfoin. No wood and few enclosures. + Lunel is famous for its <i>vin de muscat blanc</i>, thence called Lunel, + or <i>vin muscat de Lunel</i>. It is made from the raisin muscat, without + fermenting the grain in the hopper. When fermented, it makes a red muscat, + taking the tinge from the dissolution of the skin of the grape, which + injures the quality. When a red muscat is required, they prefer coloring + it with a little Alicant wine. But the white is best. The <i>pièce</i> of + two hundred and forty bottles, after being properly drawn off from its + lees, and ready for bottling, costs from one hundred and twenty to two + hundred livres, the first, quality and last vintage. It cannot be bought + old, the demand being sufficient to take it all the first year. There are + not more than from fifty to one hundred <i>pièces</i> a year, made of this + first quality. A <i>setterie</i> yields about one <i>pièce</i>, and my + informer supposes there are about two <i>setteries</i> in an arpent. + Portage to Paris, by land, is fifteen livres the quintal. The best <i>rĂ©coltes</i> + are those of M. Bouquet and M. Tremoulet. The vines are in rows four feet + apart, every way. + </p> + <p> + May 11. <i>Montpelier</i>. Snow on the Cevennes, still visible from here. + With respect to the muscat grape, of which the wine is made, there are two + kinds, the red and the white. The first has a red skin, but a white juice. + If it be fermented in the <i>cuve</i>, the coloring matter which resides + in the skin, is imparted to the wine. If not fermented in the <i>cuve</i>, + the wine is white. Of the white grape, only a white wine can be made. The + species of saintfoin cultivated here by the name of <i>sparsette</i>, is + the <i>hedysarum onobrychis</i>. They cultivate a great deal of madder (<i>garance</i>) + <i>rubia tinctorum</i> here, which is said to be immensely profitable. + Monsieur de Gouan tells me, that the pine, of which they use the burs for + fuel, is the <i>pinus sativus</i>, being two-leaved. They use-for an + edging to the borders of their gardens, the santolina, which they call <i>garderobe</i>. + I find the yellow clover here, in a garden, and the large pigeon + succeeding well, confined in a house. + </p> + <p> + May 12. <i>Frontignan</i>. Some tolerably good plains in olives, vines, + corn, saintfoin, and lucerne. A great proportion of the hills are waste. + There are some enclosures of stone, and some sheep. The first four years + of madder are unproductive; the fifth and sixth yield the whole value of + the land. Then it must be renewed. The <i>sparsette</i> is the common or + true saintfoin. It lasts about five years: in the best land it is cut + twice, in May and September, and yields three thousand pounds of dry hay + to the setterie, the first cutting, and five hundred pounds, the second. + The <i>setterie</i> is of seventy-five <i>dextres en tout sens</i>, + supposed about two arpents. Lucerne is the best of all forage; it is sowed + herein the broad-cast, and lasts about twelve or fourteen years. It is cut + four times a year, and yields six thousand pounds of dry hay, at the four + cuttings, to the setterie. The territory in which the <i>vin muscat de + Frontignan</i> is made, is about a league of three thousand <i>toises</i> + long, and one fourth of a league broad. The soil is reddish and stony, + often as much stone as soil. On the left, it is a plain, on the right + hills. There are made about one thousand <i>pièces</i> (of two hundred and + fifty bottles each) annually, of which six hundred are of the first + quality, made on the <i>coteaux</i>. Of these, Madame Soubeinan makes two + hundred, Monsieur Reboulle ninety, Monsieur Lambert, <i>medecin de la + faculte de Montpelier</i>, sixty, Monsieur Thomas, <i>notaire</i>, fifty, + Monsieur Argilliers fifty, Monsieur Audibert forty; equal to four hundred + and ninety; and there are some small proprietors who make small + quantities. The first quality is sold, <i>brut</i>, for one hundred and + twenty livres the <i>pièce</i>; but it is then thick, and must have a + winter and the <i>fouet</i>, to render it potable and brilliant. The <i>fouet</i> + is like a chocolate-mill, the handle of iron, the brush of stiff hair. In + bottles, this wine costs twenty-four sous, the bottle, &c. included. + It is potable the April after it is made, is best that year, and after ten + years begins to have a pitchy taste, resembling it to Malaga. It is not + permitted to ferment more than half a day, because it would not be so + liquorish. The best color, and its natural one, is the amber. By force of + whipping, it is made white, but loses flavor. There are but two or three + <i>pièces</i> a year of red Muscat made; there being but one vineyard of + the red grape, which belongs to a baker called Pascal. This sells in + bottles at thirty sous, the bottle included. Rondelle, <i>nĂ©gociant en + vin, Porte St. Bernard, fauxbourg St. Germain, Paris</i>, buys three + hundred pieces of the first quality every year. The <i>coteaux</i> yield + about half a piece to the <i>setterie</i>, the plains a whole piece. The + inferior quality is not at all esteemed. It is bought by the merchants of + Cette, as is also the wine of Beziers, and sold by them for Frontignan of + the first quality. They sell thirty thousand <i>pièces</i> a year under + that name. The town of Frontignan marks its casks with a hot iron: an + individual of that place, having two casks emptied, was offered forty + livres for the empty cask by a merchant of Cette. The town of Frontignan + contains about two thousand inhabitants; it is almost on the level of the + ocean. Transportation to Paris is fifteen livres the quintal, and takes + fifteen days. The price of packages is about eight livres eight sous the + one hundred bottles. A <i>setterie</i> of good vineyard sells for from + three hundred and fifty to five hundred livres, and rents for fifty + livres. A laboring man hires at one hundred and fifty livres the year, and + is fed and lodged; a woman at half as much. Wheat sells at ten livres the + <i>settier</i>, which weighs one hundred pounds, <i>poids de table</i>. + They make some Indian corn here, which is eaten by the poor. The olives do + not extend northward of this into the country above twelve or fifteen + leagues. In general, the olive country in Languedoc is about fifteen + leagues broad. More of the waste lands between Frontignan and Mirval are + capable of culture; but it is a marshy country, very subject to fever and + ague, and generally unhealthy. Thence arises, as is said, a want of hands. + </p> + <p> + <i>Cette</i>. There are in this town about ten thousand inhabitants. Its + principal commerce is wine; it furnishes great quantities of grape-pumice + for making <i>verdigrise</i>. They have a very growing commerce; but it is + kept under by the privileges of Marseilles. + </p> + <p> + May 13. <i>Agde</i>. On the right of the Etang de Thau are plains of some + width, then hills, in olives, vines, mulberry, corn, and pasture. On the + left a narrow sand-bar, separating the Etang from the sea, along which it + is proposed to make a road from Cette to Agde. In this case, the post + would lead from Montpelier by Cette and Agde to Beziers, being leveller, + and an hour or an hour and a half nearer. Agde contains six or eight + thousand inhabitants. + </p> + <p> + May 14. <i>Beziers</i>. Rich plains in corn, saintfoin, and pasture; hills + at a little distance to the right in olives; the soil both of hill and + plain is red going from Agde to Beziers. But at Beziers the country + becomes hilly, and is in olives, corn, saintfoin, pasture, some vines, and + mulberries. + </p> + <p> + May 15. <i>Beziers. Argilies. Le Saumal</i>. From Argilies to Saumal are + considerable plantations of vines. Those on the red hills, to the right, + are said to produce good wine. No wood, no enclosures. There are sheep and + good cattle. The Pyrenees are covered with snow. I am told they are so in + certain parts all the year. The canal of Languedoc, along which I now + travel, is six <i>toises</i> wide at bottom, and ten <i>toises</i> at the + surface of the water, which is one <i>toise</i> deep. The barks which + navigate it are seventy and eighty feet long, and seventeen or eighteen + feet wide. They are drawn by one horse, and worked by two hands, one of + which is generally a woman. The locks are mostly kept by women, but the + necessary operations are much too laborious for them. The encroachments by + the men, on the offices proper for the women, is a great derangement in + the order of things. Men are shoemakers, tailors, upholsterers, + staymakers, mantua-makers, cooks, housekeepers, house-cleaners, + bed-makers, they <i>coiffe</i> the ladies, and bring them to bed: the + women, therefore, to live, are obliged to undertake the offices which they + abandon. They become porters, carters, reapers, sailors, lock-keepers, + smiters on the anvil, cultivators of the earth, &c. Can we wonder, if + such of them as have a little beauty, prefer easier courses to get their + livelihood, as long as that beauty lasts? Ladies who employ men in the + offices which should be reserved for their sex, are they not bawds in + effect? For every man whom they thus emply, some girl, whose place he has + thus taken, is driven to whoredom. The passage of the eight locks at + Beziers, that is, from the opening of the first to the last gate took one + hour and thirty-three minutes. The bark in which I go is about thirty-five + feet long, drawn by one horse, and goes from two to three geographical + miles an hour. The canal yields abundance of carp and eel. I see also + small fish, resembling our perch and chub. Some plants of white clover, + and some of yellow, on the banks of the canal near Capestan; santolina + also, and a great deal of yellow iris. Met a raft of about three hundred + and fifty beams, forty feet long, and twelve or thirteen inches in + diameter, formed into fourteen rafts, tacked together. The extensive and + numerous fields of saintfoin, in general bloom, are beautiful. + </p> + <p> + May 16. <i>Le Saumal. Marseillette</i>. May 17. <i>Marseilleite. + Carcassonne</i>. From Saumal to Carcassonne we have always the river Aube + close on our left. This river runs in the valley between the Cevennes and + Pyrenees, serving as the common receptacle for both their waters. It is + from fifty to one hundred and fifty yards wide, always rapid, rocky, and + insusceptible of navigation. The canal passes in the side of hills made by + that river, overlooks the river itself, and its plains, and has its + prospect ultimately terminated on one side by mountains of rock, + overtopped by the Pyrenees, on the other by small mountains, sometimes of + rock, sometimes of soil, overtopped by the Cevennes. Marseillette is on a + ridge, which separates the river Aube from the Etang de Marseillette. The + canal, in its approach to this village, passes the ridge, and rides along + the front, overlooking the Etang, and the plains on its border; and having + passed the village, re-crosses the ridge, and resumes its general ground + in front of the Aube. The land is in corn, saintfoin, pasture, vines, + mulberries, willows, and olives. + </p> + <p> + May 18. <i>Carcassonne. Castelnaudari</i>. Opposite to Carcassonne the + canal receives the river Fresquel, about thirty yards wide, which is its + substantial supply of water from hence to Beziers. From Beziers to Agde + the river Orb furnishes it, and the Eraut, from Agde to the Etang de Thau. + By means of the <i>Ă©cluse ronde</i> at Agde, the waters of the Eraut can + be thrown towards Beziers, to aid those of the Orb, as far as the <i>Ă©cluse + de Porcaraigne</i>, nine geometrical miles. Where the Fresquel enters the + canal, there is, on the opposite side, a waste, to let off the superfluous + waters. The horse-way is continued over this waste, by a bridge of stone + of eighteen arches. I observe them fishing in the canal, with a skimming + net of about fifteen feet diameter, with which they tell me they catch + carp. Flax in blossom. Neither strawberries nor peas yet at Carcassonne. + The Windsor-bean just come to table. From the <i>Ă©cluse de la Lande</i> we + see the last olive trees near a <i>metairĂ©e</i>, or farm-house-, called <i>La + Lande</i>. On a review of what I have seen and heard of this tree, the + following seem to be its northern limits. Beginning on the Atlantic, at + the Pyrenees, and along them to the meridian of La Lande, or of + Carcassonne; up that meridian to the Cevennes, as they begin just there to + raise themselves high enough to afford it shelter. Along the Cevennes, to + the parallel of forty-five degrees of latitude, and along that parallel + (crossing the Rhone near the mouth of the Isere) to the Alps; thence along + the Alps and Apennines, to what parallel of latitude I know not. Yet here + the tracing of the line becomes the most interesting. For from the + Atlantic, so far we see this production the effect of shelter and latitude + combined. But where does it venture to launch forth unprotected by + shelter, and by the mere force of latitude alone? Where, for instance, + does its northern limit cross the Adriatic? I learn, that the olive tree + resists cold to eight degrees of Reaumur below the freezing-point, which + corresponds to fourteen above zero of Fahrenheit: and that the orange + resists to four degrees below freezing of Reaumur, which is twenty-three + degrees above zero of Fahrenheit. + </p> + <p> + May 19. <i>Castelnaudari. St. Feriol. Escamaze. Lampy</i>. Some sheep and + cattle; no enclosures. St. Feriol, Escamaze, and Lampy are in the + montagnes noires. The country almost entirely waste. Some of it in + shrubbery. The <i>voute d’Escamaze</i> is of one hundred and thirty-five + yards. Round about Castelnaudari the country is hilly, as it has been + constantly from Beziers; it is very rich. Where it is plain, or nearly + plain, the soil is black: in general, however, it is hilly and reddish, + and in corn. They cultivate a great deal of Indian corn here, which they + call millet; it is planted, but not yet up. + </p> + <p> + May 20. <i>Castelnaudari. Naurouze. Villefranche. Baziege</i>. At Naurouze + is the highest ground which the canal had to pass between the two seas. It + became necessary, then, to find water still higher to bring it here. The + river Fresquel heading by its two principal branches in the <i>montagnes + noires</i>, a considerable distance off to the eastward, the springs of + the most western one were brought together, and conducted to Naurouze, + where its waters are divided, part furnishing the canal towards the ocean, + the rest towards the Mediterranean, as far as the <i>Ă©cluse de Fresquel</i>, + where, as has been before noted, the Lampy branch and the Alzau, under the + name of the Fresquel, enter. + </p> + <p> + May 20. They have found that a lock of six <i>pieds</i> is best; however, + eight <i>pieds</i> is well enough. Beyond this, it is bad. Monsieur Pin + tells me of a lock of thirty <i>pieds</i> made in Sweden, of which it is + impossible to open the gates. They therefore divided it into four locks. + The small gates of the locks of this canal have six square <i>pieds</i> of + surface. They tried the machinery of the jack for opening them. They were + more easily opened, but very subject to be deranged, however strongly + made. They returned, therefore, to the original wooden screw, which is + excessively slow and laborious. I calculate that five minutes are lost at + every basin by this screw, which, on the whole number of basins, is one + eighth of the time necessary to navigate the canal: and of course, if a + method of lifting the gate at one stroke could be found, it would reduce + the passage from eight to seven days, and the freight equally. I suggested + to Monsieur Pin and others a quadrantal gate, turning on a pivot, and + lifted by a lever like a pump-handle, aided by a windlass and cord, if + necessary. He will try it, and inform me of the success. The price of + transportation from Cette to Bordeaux, through the canal and Garonne is + ——— the quintal: round by the straits of Gibraltar is + ———. Two hundred and forty barks, the largest of + twenty-two hundred quintals (or say, in general, of one hundred tons), + suffice to perform the business of this canal, which is stationary, having + neither increased nor diminished for many years. When pressed, they can + pass and repass between Toulouse and Beziers in fourteen days; but sixteen + is the common period. The canal is navigated ten and a half months of the + year: the other month and a half being necessary to lay it dry, cleanse + it, and repair the works. This is done in July and August, when there + would perhaps be a want of water. + </p> + <p> + May 21. <i>Baziège. Toulouse</i>. The country continues hilly, but very + rich. It is in mulberries, willows, some vines, corn, maize, pasture, + beans, flax. A great number of chateaux and good houses in the + neighborhood of the canal. The people partly in farm-houses, partly in + villages. I suspect that the farm-houses are occupied by the farmers, + while the laborers (who are mostly by the day) reside in the villages. + Neither strawberries nor pease yet at Baziege or Toulouse. Near the latter + are some fields of yellow clover. + </p> + <p> + At Toulouse the canal ends. It has four communications with the + Mediterranean. 1. Through the ponds of Thau, Frontignan, Palavas, + Maguelone, and Manjo, the <i>canal de la Radela Aigues-mortes, le canal + des Salines de Pecair,</i> and the arm of the Rhone called <i>Bras de Fer</i>, + which ends at Fourgues, opposite to Arles, and thence down the Rhone. 2. + At Cette, by a canal of a few hundred <i>toises</i>, leading out of the + Etang de Thau into the sea. The vessels pass the Etang, though a length of + nine thousand <i>toises</i>, with sails. 3. At Agde, by the river Eraut, + twenty-five hundred <i>toises</i>. It has but five or six <i>pieds</i> of + water at its mouth. It is joined to the canal at the upper part of this + communication, by a branch of a canal two hundred and seventy <i>toises</i> + long. 4. At Narbonne, by a canal they are now opening, which leads from + the great canal near the aqueduct of the river Cesse, twenty-six hundred + <i>toises</i>, into the Aude. This new canal will have five lock-basins, + of about twelve <i>pieds</i> fall each. Then you are to cross the Aude + very obliquely, and descend a branch of it six thousand <i>toises</i>, + through four lock-basins to Narbonne, and from Narbonne down the same + branch, twelve hundred <i>toises</i> into the <i>Etang de Sigen</i>, + across that Etang four thousand <i>toises</i>, issuing at an inlet, called + <i>Grau de la Nouvelle</i>, into the Gulf of Lyons. But only vessels of + thirty or forty tons can enter this inlet. Of these four communications, + that of Cette only leads to a deep sea-port, because the exit is there by + a canal, and not a river. Those by the Rhone, Eraut, and Aude, are blocked + up by bars at the mouths of those rivers. It is remarkable, that all the + rivers running into the Mediterranean are obstructed at their entrance by + bars and shallows, which often change their position. This is the case + with the Nile, Tiber, the Po, the Lez, le Lyoron, the Orbe, the Gly, the + Tech, the Tet, he. Indeed, the formation of these bars seems not confined + to the mouths of the rivers, though it takes place at them more certainly. + Along almost the whole of the coast, from Marseilles towards the Pyrenees, + banks of sand are thrown up parallel with the coast, which have insulated + portions of the sea, that is, formed them into etangs, ponds, or sounds, + through which here and there narrow and shallow inlets only are preserved + by the currents of the rivers. These sounds fill up in time, with the mud + and sand deposited in them by the rivers. Thus the Etang de Vendres, + navigated formerly by vessels of sixty tons, is now nearly filled up by + the mud and sand of the Aude. The Vistre and Vidourle, which formerly + emptied themselves into the Gulf of Lyons, are now received by the <i>Etangs + de Manjo</i> and Aiguesmortes, that is to say, the part of the Gulf of + Lyons, which formerly received, and still receives those rivers, is now + cut off from the sea by a bar of sand, which has been thrown up in it, and + has formed it into sounds. Other proofs that the land gains there on the + sea, are, that the towns of St. Giles and Notre Dame d’Asposts, formerly + seaports, are no far from the sea, and that Aiguesmortes, where are still + to be seen the iron rings to which vessels were formerly moored, and where + St. Louis embarked for Palestine, has now in its vicinities only ponds, + which cannot be navigated, and communicates with the sea by an inlet, + called <i>Grau du Roy</i>, through which only fishing-barks can pass. It + is pretty well established, that all the Delta of Egypt has been formed by + the depositions of the Nile, and the alluvions of the sea, and it is + probable that that operation is still going on. Has this peculiarity of + the Mediterranean any connection with the scantiness of its tides, which, + even at the equinoxes, are of two or three feet only? The communication + from the western end of the canal to the ocean, is by the river Garonne. + This is navigated by flat boats of eight hundred quintals, when the water + is well; but when it is scanty, these boats carry only two hundred + quintals, till they get to the mouth of the Tarn. It has been proposed to + open a canal that far from Toulouse, along the right side of the river. + </p> + <p> + May 22. <i>Toulouse</i>. 23. <i>Agen</i>. 24. <i>Castres. Bordeaux</i>. + The Garonne, and rivers emptying into it, make extensive and rich plains, + which are in mulberries, willows, corn, maize, pasture, beans, and flax. + The hills are in corn, maize, beans, and a considerable proportion of + vines. There seems to be as much maize as corn in this country. Of the + latter, there is more rye than wheat. The maize is now up, and about three + inches high. It is sowed in rows two feet or two and a half feet apart, + and is pretty thick in the row. Doubtless they mean to thin it. There is a + great deal of a forage they call <i>farouche</i>. It is a species of red + trefoil, with few leaves, a very coarse stalk, and a cylindrical blossom + of two inches in length, and three quarters of an inch in diameter, + consisting of floscules, exactly as does that of the red clover. It seems + to be a coarse food, but very plentiful. They say it is for their oxen. + These are very fine, large, and cream-colored. The services of the farm + and of transportation are performed chiefly by them. There are a few + horses and asses, but no mules. Even in the city of Bordeaux we see + scarcely any beasts of draught but oxen. When we cross the Garonne at + Langon, we find the plains entirely of sand and gravel, and they continue + so to Bordeaux. Where they are capable of any thing, they are in vines, + which are in rows, four, five, or six feet apart, and sometimes more. Near + Langon is Sauterne, where the best white wines of Bordeaux are made. The + waste lands are in fern, furze, shrubbery, and dwarf trees. The farmers + live on their farms. At Agen, Castres, Bordeaux, strawberries and pease + are now brought to table; so that the country on the canal of Languedoc + seems to have later seasons than that east and west of it. What can be the + cause? To the eastward, the protection of the Cevennes makes the warm + season advance sooner. Does the neighborhood of the Mediterranean + co-operate? And does that of the ocean mollify and advance the season to + the westward? There are ortolans at Agen, but none at Bordeaux. The + buildings on the canal and the Garonne are mostly of brick, the size of + the bricks the same with that of the ancient Roman brick, as seen in the + remains of their buildings in this country. In those of a circus at + Bordeaux, considerable portions of which are standing, I measured the + bricks, and found them nineteen or twenty inches long, eleven or twelve + inches wide, and from one and a half to two inches thick; their texture as + fine, compact, and solid as that of porcelain. The bricks now made, though + of the same dimensions, are not so fine. They are burnt in a kind of + furnace, and make excellent work. The elm tree shows itself at Bordeaux + peculiarly proper for being spread flat for arbors. Many are done in this + way on the Quay des Charterons. Strawberries, pease, and cherries at + Bordeaux. + </p> + <p> + May 24, 25, 26, 27, 28. Bordeaux. The cantons in which the most celebrated + wines of Bordeaux are made, are Medoc down the river, Grave adjoining the + city, and the parishes next above; all on the same side of the river. In + the first, is made red wine principally, in the two last, white. In Medoc + they plant the vines in cross-rows of three and a half <i>pieds</i>. They + keep them so low, that poles extended along the rows one way, + horizontally, about fifteen or eighteen inches above the ground, serve to + tie the vines to, and leave the cross row open to the plough. In Grave + they set the plants in quincunx, i.e. in equilateral triangles of three + and a half pieds every side; and they stick a pole of six or eight feet + high to every vine, separately. The vine-stock is sometimes three or four + feet high. They find these two methods equal in culture, duration, + quantity, and quality. The former, however, admits the alternative of + tending by hand or with the plough. The grafting of the vine, though a + critical operation, is practised with success. When the graft has taken, + they bend it into the earth, and let it take root above the scar. They + begin to yield an indifferent wine at three years old, but not a good one + till twenty-five years, nor after eighty, when they begin to yield less, + and worse, and must be renewed. They give three or four workings in the + year, each worth seventy or seventy-five livres the journal, which is of + eight hundred and forty square ioises, and contains about three thousand + plants. They dung a little in Medoc and Grave, because of the poverty of + the soil; but very little; as more would affect the wine. The <i>journal</i> + yields, <i>communions annis</i>, about three <i>pièces</i> (of two hundred + and forty, or two hundred and fifty bottles each). The vineyards of first + quality are all worked by their proprietors. Those of the second, rent for + three hundred livres the journal: those of third, at two hundred livres. + They employ a kind of overseer at four or five hundred livres the year, + finding him lodging and drink: but he feeds himself. He superintends and + directs, though he is expected to work but little. If the proprietor has a + garden, the overseer tends that. They never hire laborers by the year. The + day wages for a man are thirty sous, a woman’s fifteen sous, feeding + themselves. The women make the bundles of sarment, weed, pull off the + snails, tie the vines, and gather the grapes. During the vintage they are + paid high, and fed well. + </p> + <p> + Of Red wines, there are four vineyards of the first quality; viz. 1. <i>Chateau + Margau</i>, belonging to the Marquis d’Agincourt, who makes about one + hundred and fifty tons, of one thousand bottles each. He has engaged to + Jernon, a merchant. 2. <i>La Tour de Segur, en Saint Lambert</i>, + belonging to Monsieur Miresmenil, who makes one hundred and twenty-five + tons. 3. <i>Hautbrion</i>, belonging two-thirds to M. le Comte de Femelle, + who has engaged to Barton, a merchant: the other third to the Comte de + Toulouse, at Toulouse. The whole is seventy-five tons. 4. <i>Chateau de la + Fite</i>, belonging to the President Pichard, at Bordeaux, who makes one + hundred and seventy-five tons. The wines of the three first, are not in + perfection till four years old: those of <i>de la Fite</i>, being somewhat + lighter, are good at three years; that is, the crop of 1786 is good in the + spring of 1789. These growths, of the year 1783, sell now at two thousand + livres the ton; those of 1784, on account of the superior quality of that + vintage, sell at twenty-four hundred livres; those of 1785, at eighteen + hundred livres; those of 1786, at eighteen hundred livres, though they had + sold at first for only fifteen hundred livres. Red wines of the second + quality, are Rozan, Dabbadie or Lionville, la Rose, Qui-rouen, Durfort; in + all eight hundred tons, which sell at one thousand livres, new. The third + class, are Galons, Mouton, Gassie, Arboete, Pontette, de Ferme, Candale; + in all two thousand tons, at eight or nine hundred livres. After these, + they are reckoned common wines, and sell from five hundred livres, down to + one hundred and twenty livres, the ton. All red wines decline after a + certain age, losing color, flavor, and body. Those of Bordeaux begin to + decline at about seven years old. + </p> + <p> + Of White wines, those made in the canton of Grave, are most esteemed at + Bordeaux. The best crops are, 1. <i>Pontac</i>, which formerly belonged to + M. de Pontac, but now to M. de Lamont. He makes forty tons, which sell at + four hundred livres, new. 2. <i>St. Brise</i>, belonging to M. de Pontac; + thirty tons, at three hundred and fifty livres. 3. <i>De Carbonius</i>, + belonging to the Benedictine monks, who make fifty tons, and never selling + till three or four years old, get eight hundred livres the ton. Those made + in the three parishes next above Grave, and more esteemed at Paris, are, + 1. <i>Sauterne</i>. The best crop belongs to M. Diquem at Bordeaux, or to + M. de Salus, his son-in-law; one hundred and fifty tons, at three hundred + livres, new, and six hundred livres, old. The next best crop is M. de + Fillotte’s, one hundred tons, sold at the same price. 2. <i>Prignac</i>. + The best is the President du Roy’s, at Bordeaux. He makes one hundred and + seventy-five tons, which sell at three hundred livres, new, and six + hundred livres, old. Those of 1784, for their extraordinary quality, sell + at eight hundred livres. 3. <i>Barsac</i>. The best belongs to the + President Pichard, who makes one hundred and fifty tons, at two hundred + and eighteen livres, new, and six hundred livres, old. Sauterne is the + pleasantest; next Prignac, and lastly Barsac: but Barsac is the strongest; + next Prignac, and lastly Sauterne; and all stronger than Grave. There are + other good crops made in the same parishes of Sauterne, Prignac, and + Barsac; but none as good as these. There is a virgin wine, which, though + made of a red grape, is of a light rose color, because, being made without + pressure, the coloring matter of the skin does not mix with the juice. + There are other white wines, from the preceding prices down to + seventy-five livres. In general, the white wines keep longest. They will + be in perfection till fifteen or twenty years of age. The best vintage now + to be bought, is of 1784; both of red and white. There has been no other + good year since 1779. The celebrated vineyards before mentioned, are + plains, as is generally the canton of Medoc, and that of the Grave. The + soil of Hautbrion, particularly, which I examined, is a sand, in which is + near as much round gravel or small stone, and very little loam: and this + is the general soil of Medoc. That of Pontac, which I examined also, is a + little different. It is clayey, with a fourth or fifth of fine rotten + stone; and at two feet depth, it becomes all a rotten stone. M. de Lamont + tells me, he has a kind of grape without seeds, which I did not formerly + suppose to exist; but I saw at Marseilles dried raisins from Smyrna + without seeds. I see in his farm at Pontac, some plants of white clover, + and a good deal of yellow: also some small peach trees in the open ground. + The principal English wine merchants at Bordeaux, are Jernon, Barton, + Johnston, Foster, Skinner, Copinger, and M’Cartey: the chief French wine + merchants, are Feger, Nerac, Bruneaux Jauge, and Du Verget. Desgrands, a + wine-broker, tells me they never mix the wines of first quality: but that + they mix the inferior ones to improve them. The smallest wines make the + best brandy. They yield about a fifth or sixth. + </p> + <p> + May 28, 29. From Bordeaux to Blaye, the country near the river is hilly, + chiefly in vines, some corn, some pasture: further out, are plains, boggy + and waste. The soil, in both cases, clay and grit. Some sheep on the + waste. To Etauliers, we have sometimes boggy plains, sometimes waving + grounds and sandy, always poor, generally waste, in fern and furze, with + some corn however, interspersed. To Mirambeau and St. Genis, it is hilly, + poor, and mostly waste. There are some corn and maize however, and better + trees than usual. Towards Pons, it becomes a little red, mostly rotten + stone. There are vines, corn, and maize, which is up. At Pons we approach + the Charente; the country becomes better, a blackish mould mixed with a + rotten chalky stone: a great many vines, corn, maize, and farouche. From + Lajart to Saintes and Rochefort, the soil is reddish, its foundation a + chalky rock, at about a foot depth; in vines, corn, maize, clover, + lucerne, and pasture. There are more and better trees than I have seen in + all my journey; a great many apple and cherry trees: fine cattle and many + sheep. + </p> + <p> + May 30. From Rochefort to La Rochelle, it is sometimes hilly and red, with + a chalky foundation, middling good; in corn, pasture, and some waste: + sometimes it is reclaimed marsh, in clover and corn, except the parts + accessible to the tide, which are in wild grass. About Rochelle, it is a + low plain. Towards Usseau, and halfway to Marans, level highlands, red, + mixed with an equal quantity of broken chalk; mostly in vines, some corn, + and pasture: then to Marans and halfway to St. Hermine, it is reclaimed + marsh, dark, tolerably good, and all in pasture: there we rise to plains a + little higher, red, with a chalky foundation, boundless to the eye, and + altogether in corn and maize. + </p> + <p> + May 31. At St. Hermine, the country becomes very hilly, a red clay mixed + with chalky stone, generally waste, in furze and broom, with some patches + of corn and maize; and so it continues to Chantonay, and St. Fulgent. + Through the whole of this road from Bordeaux, are frequent hedge rows, and + small patches of forest wood, not good, yet better than I had seen in the + preceding part of my journey. Towards Montaigu, the soil mends a little; + the cultivated parts in corn and pasture, the uncultivated in broom. It is + in very small enclosures of ditch and quickset. On approaching the Loire + to Nantes, the country is leveller: the soil from Rochelle to this place + may be said to have been sometimes red, but oftener gray, and always on a + chalky foundation. The last census, of about 1770, made one hundred and + twenty thousand inhabitants at Nantes. They conjecture there are now one + hundred and fifty thousand, which equals it to Bordeaux. + </p> + <p> + June 1,2. The country from Nantes to L’Orient is very hilly and poor, the + soil gray; nearly half is waste, in furze and broom, among which is some + poor grass. The cultivated parts are in corn, some maize, a good many + apple trees; no vines. All is in small enclosures of quick hedge and + ditch. There are patches and hedge-rows of forest-wood, not quite + deserving the name of timber. The people are mostly in villages; they eat + rye-bread, and are ragged. The villages announce a general poverty, as + does every other appearance. Women smite on the anvil, and work with the + hoe, and cows are yoked to labor. There are great numbers of cattle, + insomuch that butter is their staple. Neither asses nor mules: yet it is + said that the fine mules I have met with on my journey, are raised in + Poictou. There are but few <i>chateaux</i> here. I observe mill-ponds, and + hoes with long handles. Have they not, in common with us, derived these + from England, of which Bretagne is probably a colony? L’Orient is supposed + to contain twenty-five thousand inhabitants. They tell me here, that to + make a reasonable profit on potash and pearlash, as bought in America, the + former should sell at thirty livres, the latter thirty-six livres, the + quintal. Of turpentine they make no use in their vessels. Bayonne + furnishes pitch enough; but tar is in demand, and ours sells well. The + tower of L’Orient is sixty-five <i>pieds</i> above the level of the sea, + one hundred and twenty <i>pieds</i> high, twenty-five <i>pieds</i> in + diameter; the stairs four feet radius, and cost thirty thousand livres, + besides the materials of the old tower. + </p> + <p> + June 3, 4, 5. The country and productions from L’Orient to Rennes, and + from Rennes to Nantes, are precisely similar to those from Nantes to + L’Orient. About Rennes, it is somewhat leveller, perhaps less poor, and + almost entirely in pasture. The soil always gray. Some small, separate + houses, which seem to be the residence of laborers, or very small farmers; + the walls frequently of mud, and the roofs generally covered with slate. + Great plantations of walnut, and frequently of pine. Some apple trees and + sweet-briar still in bloom, and broom generally so. I have heard no + nightingale since the last day of May. There are gates in this country + made in such a manner, that the top rail of the gate overshoots backwards + the hind post, so as to counterpoise the gate, and prevent its swagging. + </p> + <p> + <i>Nantes</i>. Vessels of eight feet draught only can come to Nantes. + Those which are larger, lie at Painboeuf, ten leagues below Nantes, and + five leagues above the mouth of the river. There is a continued navigation + from Nantes to Paris, through the Loire, the canal de Briare and the + Seine. Carolina rice is preferred to that of Lombardy for the Guinea + trade, because it requires less water to boil it. + </p> + <p> + June 6, 7, 8. <i>Nantes. Ancenis. Angers. Tours</i>. Ascending the Loire + from Nantes, the road, as far as Angers, leads over the hills, which are + gray, oftener below than above mediocrity, and in corn, pasture, vines, + some maize, flax, and hemp. There are no waste lands. About the limits of + Bretagne and Anjou, which are between Loriottiere and St. George, the + lands change for the better. Here and there, we get views of the plains on + the Loire, of some extent, and good appearance, in corn and pasture. After + passing Angers, the road is raised out of the reach of inundations, so as + at the same time to ward them off from the interior plains. It passes + generally along the river side; but sometimes leads through the plains, + which, after we pass Angers, become extensive and good, in corn, pasture, + some maize, hemp, flax, pease, and beans; many willows, also poplars and + walnuts. The flax is near ripe. Sweet-briar in general bloom. Some broom + here still, on which the cattle and sheep browse in winter and spring, + when they have no other green food; and the hogs eat the blossoms and + pods, in spring and summer. This blossom, though disagreeable when smelt + in a small quantity, is of delicious fragrance when there is a whole field + of it. There are some considerable vineyards in the river plains, just + before we reach Les Trois Volets (which is at the one hundred and + thirty-sixth milestone), and after that, where the hills on the left come + into view, they are mostly in vines. Their soil is clayey and stony, a + little reddish, and of southern aspect. The hills on the other side of the + river, looking to the north, are not in vines. There is very good wine + made on these hills; not equal indeed to the Bordeaux of best quality, but + to that of good quality, and like it. It is a great article of exportation + from Anjou and Touraine, and probably is sold abroad, under the name of + Bordeaux. They are now mowing the first crop of hay. All along both hills + of the Loire, is a mass of white stone, not durable, growing black with + time, and so soft, that the people cut their houses out of the solid, with + all the partitions, chimnies, doors, &c. The hill sides resemble cony + burrows, full of inhabitants. The borders of the Loire are almost a + continued village. There are many chateaux: many cattle, sheep, and + horses; some asses. + </p> + <p> + Tours is at the one hundred and nineteenth mile-stone. Being desirous of + inquiring here into a fact stated by Voltaire, in his <i>Questions + EncylopĂ©diques</i>, article <i>Coquilles</i>, relative to the growth of + shells unconnected with animal bodies at the <i>Chateau</i> of Monsieur de + la Sauvagiere, near Tours, I called on Monsieur Gentil, <i>premier + sĂ©crĂ©taire de l’ntendance</i>, to whom the Intendant had written on my + behalf, at the request of the Marquis de Chastellux. + </p> + <p> + I stated to him the fact as advanced by Voltaire, and found he was, of all + men, the best to whom I could have addressed myself. He told me he had + been in correspondence with Voltaire on that very subject, and was + perfectly acquainted with Monsieur de la Sauvagiere, and the Faluniere + where the fact is said to have taken place. It is at the Chateau de + Grillemont, six leagues from Tours, on the road to Bordeaux, belonging now + to Monsieur d’Orcai. He says, that De la Sauvagiere was a man of truth, + and might be relied on for whatever facts he stated as of his own + observation; but that he was overcharged with imagination, which, in + matters of opinion and theory, often led him beyond his facts; that this + feature in his character had appeared principally in what he wrote on the + antiquities of Touraine; but that as to the fact in question, he believed + him. That he himself, indeed, had not watched the same identical shells, + as Sauvagiere had done, growing from small to great; but that he had often + seen such masses of those shells of all sizes, from a point to a full + size, as to carry conviction to his mind that they were in the act of + growing; that he had once made a collection of shells for the Emperor’s + cabinet, reserving duplicates of them for himself; and that these afforded + proofs of the same fact; that he afterwards gave those duplicates to a + Monsieur du Verget, a physician of Tours, of great science and candor, who + was collecting on a larger scale, and who was perfectly in sentiment with + Monsieur de la Sauvagiere, and not only the Faluniere, but many other + places about Tours, would convince any unbiassed observer, that shells are + a fruit of the earth, spontaneously produced; and he gave me a copy of De + la Sauvagiere’s <i>Recueil de Dissertations</i>, presented him by the + author, wherein is one <i>Sur la vegetation spontanĂ©e des coquilles du + Chateau des Places</i>. So far, I repeat from him. What are we to + conclude? That we have not materials enough yet, to form any conclusion. + The fact stated by Sauvagiere is not against any law of nature, and is + therefore possible; but it is so little analogous to her habitual + processes, that, if true, it would be extraordinary: that to command our + belief, therefore, there should be such a suite of observations, as that + their untruth would be more extraordinary than the existence of the fact + they affirm. The bark of trees, the skin of fruits and animals, the + feathers of birds, receive their growth and nutriment from the internal + circulation of a juice through the vessels of the individual they cover. + We conclude from analogy, then, that the shells of the testaceous tribe + receive also their growth from a like internal circulation. If it be + urged, that this does not exclude the possibility of a like shell being + produced by the passage of a fluid through the pores of the circumjacent + body, whether of earth, stone, or water; I answer, that it is not within + the usual economy of nature, to use two processes for one species of + production. While I withhold my assent, however, from this hypothesis, I + must deny it to every other I have ever seen, by which their authors + pretend to account for the origin of shells in high places. Some of these + are against the laws of nature, and therefore impossible; and others are + built on positions more difficult to assent to, than that of De la + Sauvagiere. They all suppose these shells to have covered submarine + animals, and have then to answer the question, How came they fifteen + thousand feet above the level of the sea? And they answer it, by demanding + what cannot be conceded. One, therefore, who had rather have no opinion + than a false one, will suppose this question one of those beyond the + investigation of human sagacity; or wait till further and fuller + observations enable him to decide it. + </p> + <p> + <i>Chanteloup</i>. I heard a nightingale to-day at Chanteloup. The + gardener says it is the male, who alone sings, while the female sits; and + that when the young are hatched, he also ceases. In the boudoir at + Chanteloup, is an ingenious contrivance to hide the projecting steps of a + staircase. Three steps were of necessity to project into the boudoir: they + are therefore made triangular steps; and instead of being rested on the + floor, as usual, they are made fast at their broad end to the stair door, + swinging out and in, with that. When it shuts, it runs them under the + other steps; when open it brings them out to their proper place. In the + kitchen garden, are three pumps, worked by one horse. The pumps are placed + in an equilateral triangle, each side of which is of about thirty-five + feet. In the centre is a post, ten or twelve feet high, and one foot in + diameter. In the top of this, enters the bent end of a lever, of about + twelve or fifteen feet long, with a swingle-tree at the other end. About + three feet from the bent end, it receives, on a pin, three horizontal bars + of iron, which at their other end lay hold of one corner of a quadrantal + crank (like a bell crank) moving in a vertical plane, to the other corner + of which is hooked the vertical handle of the pump. The crank turns on its + point as a centre, by a pin or pivot passing through it. The horse moving + the lever horizontally in a circle, every point of the lever describes a + horizontal circle. That which receives the three bars, describes a circle + of six feet in diameter. It gives a stroke then of six feet to the handle + of each pump, at each revolution. + </p> + <p> + <i>Blois. Orleans</i>. June 9, 10. At Blois, the road leaves the river, + and traverses the hills, which are mostly reddish, sometimes gray, good + enough, in vines, corn, saintfoin. From Orleans to the river Juines, at + Etampes, it is a continued plain of corn, and saintfoin, tolerably good, + sometimes gray, sometimes red. From Etampes to Etrechy, the country is + mountainous and rocky, resembling that of Fontainebleau. <i>Quere</i>. If + it may not be the same vein? + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0059" id="link2H_4_0059"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LVIII.—TO WILLIAM CARMICHAEL, June 14, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO WILLIAM CARMICHAEL. + </p> + <p> + Paris, June 14, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Having got back to Paris three days ago, I resume immediately the + correspondence with which you have been pleased to honor me. I wish I + could have begun it with more agreeable information than that furnished me + by Mr. Grand, that the funds of the United States here are exhausted, and + himself considerably in advance; and by the board of treasury at New York, + that they have no immediate prospect of furnishing us supplies. We are + thus left to shift for ourselves, without previous warning. As soon as + they shall replenish Mr. Grand’s hands, I will give you notice, that you + may recommence your usual drafts on him; unless the board should provide a + separate fund for you, dependant on yourself alone, which I have strongly + and repeatedly pressed on them, in order to remove the indecency of + suffering your drafts to pass through any intermediate hand for payment. + </p> + <p> + My letters from America came down to the 24th of April. The disturbances + in the Eastern States were entirely settled. I do not learn that the + government had made any examples. Mr. Hancock’s health being + re-established, the want of which had occasioned him to resign the + government of Massachusetts, he has been re-elected to the exclusion of + Governor Bowdoin. New York still refuses to pass the impost in any form, + and were she to pass it, Pennsylvania will not uncouple it from the + supplementary funds. These two States and Virginia, are the only ones, my + letters say, which have paid any thing into the Continental treasury, for + a twelvemonth past. I send you a copy of a circular letter from Congress + to the several States, insisting on their removing all obstructions to the + recovery of British debts. This was hurried, that it might be delivered to + the Assembly of New York before they rose. It was delivered, but they did + nothing in consequence of it. The convention to be assembled at + Philadelphia will be an able one. Ten States were known to have appointed + delegates. Maryland was about to appoint; Connecticut was doubtful; and + Rhode Island had refused. We are sure, however, of eleven States. South + Carolina has prohibited the importation of slaves for three years; which + is a step towards a perpetual prohibition. Between six and seven hundred + thousand acres of land are actually surveyed into townships, and the sales + are to begin immediately. They are not to be sold for less than a dollar + the acre, in public certificates. I wrote you from Bordeaux on the subject + of Colonel Smith. I was sorry I missed him there, for other reasons as + well as from a curiosity to know his errand. The Notables have laid the + foundation of much good here: you have seen it detailed in the public + papers. The Prince of Wales is likely to recover from his illness, which + was very threatening. It is feared, that three powers have combined to + lift the Prince of Orange out of his difficulties. Have you yet the cipher + of which I formerly wrote to you, or any copy of it? + </p> + <p> + I am, with sincere esteem, Dear Sir, your most obedient and most humble + servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0060" id="link2H_4_0060"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LIX.—TO J. BANNISTER, JUNIOR, June 19, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO J. BANNISTER, JUNIOR. + </p> + <p> + Paris, June 19, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have received your favor of April the 23d, from New York, and am sorry + to find you have had a relapse. Time and temperance, however, will cure + you; to which add exercise. I hope you have long ago had a happy meeting + with your friends, with whom a few hours would be to me an ineffable + feast. The face of Europe appears a little turbid, but all will subside. + The Empress has endeavored to bully the Turk, who laughed at her, and she + is going back. The Emperor’s reformations have occasioned the appearance + of insurrection in Flanders, and he, according to character, will probably + tread back his steps. A change of system here with respect to the Dutch, + is suspected; because the Kings of Prussia and England openly espouse the + cause of the Stadtholder, and that of the Patriots is likely to fall. The + American acquaintances whom you left here, not being stationary, you will + hardly expect news of them. Mrs. Barrett, lately dead, was, I think, known + to you. I had a letter from Ledyard lately, dated at St. Petersburg. He + had but two shirts, and yet more shirts than shillings. Still he was + determined to obtain the palm of being the first circumambulator of the + earth. He says, that having no money, they kick him from place to place, + and thus he expects to be kicked round the globe. Are you become a great + walker? You know I preach up that kind of exercise. Shall I send you a <i>conte-pas</i>? + It will cost you a dozen louis, but be a great stimulus to walking, as it + will record your steps. I finished my tour a week or ten days ago. I went + as far as Turin, Milan, Genoa; and never passed three months and a half + more delightfully. I returned through the canal of Languedoc, by Bordeaux, + Nantes, L’Orient, and Rennes; then returned to Nantes, and came up the + Loire to Orleans. I was alone through the whole, and think one travels + more usefully when alone, because he reflects more. + </p> + <p> + Present me in the most friendly terms to Mrs. Bannister and to your + father, and be assured of the sincere esteem of, Dear Sir, your friend and + servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0061" id="link2H_4_0061"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LX.—TO JAMES MADISON, June 20, 1787* + </h2> + <p> + TO JAMES MADISON. + </p> + <p> + Paris, June 20, 1787. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [* Much of this letter is in cipher: but the notes annexed + to it, have enabled the Editor to decipher and publish it.] +</pre> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I wrote you last on the 30th of January, with a Postscript of February the + 5th. Having set out the last day of that month to try the waters of Aix, + and been journeying since, till the 10th instant, I have been unable to + continue my correspondence with you. In the mean time, I have received + your several favors of February the 15th, March the 18th and 19th, and + April the 23d. The last arrived here about the 25th of May, while those of + March the 18th and 19th, though written, five weeks earlier, arrived three + weeks later. I mention this, to show you how uncertain is the conveyance + through England. + </p> + <p> + The idea of separating the executive business of the confederacy from + Congress, as the judiciary is already, in some degree, is just and + necessary. I had frequently pressed on the members individually, while in + Congress, the doing this by a resolution of Congress for appointing an + executive committee, to act during the sessions of Congress, as the + committee of the States was to act during their vacations. But the + referring to this committee all executive business, as it should present + itself, would require a more persevering self-denial than I suppose + Congress to possess. It will be much better to make that separation by a + federal act. The negative proposed to be given them on all the acts of the + several legislatures, is now, for the first time, suggested to my mind. <i>Prima + facie</i>, I do not like it. It fails in an essential character; that the + hole and the patch should be commensurate. But this proposes to mend a + small hole, by covering the whole garment. Not more than one out of one + hundred State acts, concern the confederacy. This proposition, then, in + order to give them one degree of power, which they ought to have, gives + them ninety-nine more, which they ought not to have, upon a presumption + that they will not exercise the ninety-nine. But upon every act there will + be a preliminary question, Does this act concern the confederacy? And was + there ever a proposition so plain, as to pass Congress without a debate? + Their decisions are almost always wise; they are like pure metal. But you + know of how much dross this is the result. Would not an appeal from the + State judicature to a federal court, in all cases where the act of + Confederation controlled the question, be as effectual a remedy, and + exactly commensurate to the defect. A British creditor, for example, sues + for his debt in Virginia; the defendant pleads an act of the State, + excluding him from their courts; the plaintiff urges the confederation, + and the treaty made under that, as controlling the State law; the judges + are weak enough to decide according to the views of their legislature. An + appeal to a federal court gets all to rights. It will be said, that this + court may encroach on the jurisdiction of the State courts. It may. But + there will be a power, to wit, Congress, to watch and restrain them. But + place the same authority in Congress itself, and there will be no power + above them to perform the same office. They will restrain within due + bounds a jurisdiction exercised by others, much more rigorously than if + exercised by themselves. + </p> + <p> + I am uneasy at seeing that the sale of our western lands is not yet + commenced. That valuable fund for the immediate extinction of our debt + will, I fear, be suffered to slip through our fingers. Every day exposes + it to events, which no human foresight can guard against. When we consider + the temper of the people of that country, derived from the circumstances + which surround them, we must suppose their separation possible, at every + moment. If they can be retained till their governments become settled and + wise, they will remain with us always, and be a precious part of our + strength and our virtue. But this affair of the Mississippi, by showing + that Congress is capable of hesitating on a question, which proposes a + clear sacrifice of the western to the maritime States, will with + difficulty be obliterated. The proposition of my going to Madrid, to try + to recover there the ground which has been lost at New York, by the + concession of the vote of seven States, I should think desperate. With + respect to myself, weighing the pleasure of the journey and bare + possibility of success in one scale, and the strong probability of failure + and the public disappointment directed on me, in the other, the latter + preponderates. Add to this, that jealousy might be excited in the breast + of a person, who could find occasions of making me uneasy. + </p> + <p> + The late changes in the ministry here, excite considerable hopes. I think + we gain in them all. I am particularly happy at the reentry of Malesherbes + into the Council. His knowledge and integrity render his value + inappreciable, and the greater to me, because, while he had no views of + office, we had established together the most unreserved intimacy. So far, + too, I am pleased with Montmorin. His honesty proceeds from the heart as + well as the head, and therefore may be more surely counted on. The King + loves business, economy, order, and justice, and wishes sincerely the good + of his people; but he is irascible, rude, very limited in his + understanding, and religious bordering on bigotry. He has no mistress, + loves his queen, and is too much governed by her. She is capricious, like + her brother, and governed by him; devoted to pleasure and expense; and not + remarkable for any other vices or virtues. Unhappily the King shows a + propensity for the pleasures of the table. That for drink has increased + lately, or at least it has become more known. + </p> + <p> + For European news in general, I will refer you to my letter to Mr. Jay. Is + it not possible, that the occurrences in Holland may excite a desire in + many of leaving that country, and transferring their effects out of it, + and thus make an opening for shifting into their hands the debts due to + this country, to its officers, and Farmers? It would be surely eligible. I + believe Dumas, if put on the watch, might alone suffice; but he surely + might, if Mr. Adams should go when the moment offers. Dumas has been in + the habit of sending his letters open to me, to be forwarded to Mr. Jay. + During my absence, they passed through Mr. Short’s hands, who made + extracts from them, by which I see he has been recommending himself and me + for the money-negotiations in Holland. It might be thought, perhaps, that + I have encouraged him in this. Be assured, my Dear Sir, that no such idea + ever entered my head. On the contrary, it is a business which would be the + most disagreeable to me of all others, and for which I am the most unfit + person living. I do not understand bargaining, nor possess the dexterity + requisite for the purpose. On the other hand, Mr. Adams, whom I expressly + and sincerely recommend, stands already on ground for that business, which + I could not gain in years. Pray set me to rights in the minds of those, + who may have supposed me privy to this proposition. <i>En passant</i>, I + will observe with respect to Mr. Dumas, that the death of the Count de + Vergennes places Congress more at their ease, how to dispose of him. Our + credit has been ill treated here in public debate, and our debt here + deemed apocryphal. We should try to transfer this debt elsewhere, and + leave nothing capable of exciting ill thoughts between us. I shall mention + in my letter to Mr. Jay, a disagreeable affair which Mr. Barclay has been + thrown into, at Bordeaux. An honester man cannot be found, nor a slower, + nor more decisive one. His affairs, too, are so embarrassed and desperate, + that the public reputation is, every moment, in danger of being + compromitted with him. He is perfectly amiable and honest, with all his + embarrassments. + </p> + <p> + By the next packet, I shall be able to send you some books, as also your + watch and pedometer. The two last are not yet done. To search for books, + and forward them to Havre, will require more time than I had between my + return and the departure of this packet. Having been a witness, + heretofore, to the divisions in Congress on the subject of their foreign + ministers, it would be a weakness in me to suppose none with respect to + myself, or to count with any confidence on the renewal of my commission, + which expires on the 10th day of March next; and the more so, as instead + of requiring the disapprobation of seven States, as formerly, that of one + suffices for a recall, when Congress consists of only seven States, two, + when of eight, &c. which I suppose to be habitually their numbers at + present. Whenever I leave this place, it will be necessary to begin my + arrangements six months before my departure; and these, once fairly begun + and under way, and my mind set homewards, a change of purpose could hardly + take place. If it should be the desire of Congress that I should continue + still longer, I could wish to know it, at farthest, by the packet which + will sail from New York in September. Because, were I to put off longer + the quitting my house, selling my furniture, he, I should not have time + left to wind up my affairs; and having once quitted, and sold off my + furniture, I could not think of establishing myself here again. I take the + liberty of mentioning this matter to you, not with a desire to change the + purpose of Congress, but to know it in time. I have never fixed in my + mind, the epoch of my return, so far as shall depend on myself, but I + never supposed it very distant. Probably I shall not risk a second vote on + this subject. Such trifling things may draw on me the displeasure of one + or two States, and thus submit me to the disgrace of a recall. + </p> + <p> + I thank you for the paccan nuts, which accompanied your letter of March. + Could you procure me a copy of the bill for proportioning crimes and + punishments, in the form in which it was ultimately rejected by the House + of Delegates? Young Mr. Bannister desired me to send him regularly the <i>Mercure + de France</i>. I will ask leave to do this through you, and that you will + adopt such method of forwarding them to him, as will save him from being + submitted to postage, which they would not be worth. As a compensation for + your trouble, you will be free to keep them till you shall have read them. + I am, with sentiments of the most sincere esteem, Dear Sir, your friend + and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0062" id="link2H_4_0062"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXI.—TO JOHN JAY, June 21,1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, June 21,1787. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I had the honor of addressing you in a letter of May the 4th, from + Marseilles, which was to have gone by the last packet. Bat it arrived a + few hours too late for that conveyance, and has been committed to a + private one, passing through England, with a promise that it should go + through no post-office. + </p> + <p> + I was desirous, while at the sea-ports, to obtain a list of the American + vessels which have come to them since the peace, in order to estimate + their comparative importance to us, as well as the general amount of our + commerce with this country, so far as carried on in our own bottoms. At + Marseilles, I found there had been thirty-two, since that period; at + Cette, not a single one; at Bayonne, one of our free ports, only one. This + last fact I learned from other information, not having visited that place; + as it would have been a deviation from my route, too considerable for the + importance of the object. At Bordeaux, Nantes, and L’Orient, I could not + obtain lists in the moment; but am in hopes I shall be able to get them + ere long. Though more important to us, they will probably be more + imperfect than that of Marseilles. At Nantes, I began with Monsieur DobrĂ©e + an arrangement of his claims. I visited the military stores, which have + been detained there so long, opened some boxes of each kind, and found the + state of their contents much better than had been represented. An exact + list of the articles is to be sent me. + </p> + <p> + The importations into L’Orient of other fish-oils, besides those of the + whale, brought to my notice there a defect in the letter of Monsieur de + Calonne, of October the 22nd, which letter was formerly communicated to + you. In that, whale oil only was named. The other fish-oils, therefore, + have continued to pay the old duties. In a conference with Monsieur de + Villedeuil, the present Comptroller General, since my return, I proposed + the extending the exemption to all fish-oils, according to the letter of + the Hanseatic treaty, which had formed the basis of the regulations + respecting us. I think this will be agreed to. The delays of office first, + then the illness of Monsieur de Colonne, and lastly, his removal and the + throng of business occasioned by the <i>AssemblĂ©e des Notables</i>, have + prevented the reducing the substance of the letter into the form of an <i>ArrĂŞt</i>, + as yet though I have continued soliciting it as much as circumstances + would bear. I am now promised that it shall be done immediately, and it + shall be so far retrospective to the date of the letter, as that all + duties paid since that, shall be refunded. + </p> + <p> + The new accessions of the ministry are valued here. Good is hoped from the + Archbishop of Toulouse, who succeeds the Count de Vergennes as <i>Chef du + Conseil de finance</i>. Monsieur de Villedeuil, the Comptroller General, + has been approved by the public, in the offices he has heretofore + exercised. The Duke de Nivernois, called to the Council, is reckoned a + good and able man; and Monsieur de Malesherbes, called also to the + Council, is unquestionably the first character in the kingdom, for + integrity, patriotism, knowledge, and experience in business. There is a + fear that the Marechal de Castries is disposed to retire. + </p> + <p> + The face of things in Europe is a little turbid, at present; but probably + all will subside. The Empress of Russia, it is supposed, will not push her + pretensions against the Turks to actual war. Weighing the fondness of the + Emperor for innovation, against his want of perseverance, it is difficult + to calculate what he will do with his discontented subjects in Brabant and + Flanders. If those provinces alone were concerned, he would probably give + back; but this would induce an opposition to his plan, in all his other + dominions. Perhaps he may be able to find a compromise. The cause of the + Patriots in Holland is a little clouded at present. + </p> + <p> + England and Prussia seem disposed to interpose effectually. The former has + actually ordered a fleet of six sail of the line, northwardly, under Gore; + and the latter threatens to put her troops into motion. The danger of + losing such a weight in their scale, as that of Prussia, would occasion + this court to prefer conciliation to war. Add to this, the distress of + their finances, and perhaps not so warm a zeal in the new ministry for the + innovations in Holland. I hardly believe they will think it worth while to + purchase the change of constitution proposed there, at the expense of a + war. But of these things, you will receive more particular and more + certain details from Mr. Dumas, to whom they belong. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden is appointed ambassador from England to Madrid. To the hatred + borne us by his court and country, is added a recollection of the + circumstances of the unsuccessful embassy to America, of which he made a + part. So that I think he will carry to Madrid, dispositions to do us all + the ill he can. + </p> + <p> + The late change in the ministry is very favorable to the prospects of the + Chevalier de la Luzerne. The Count de Montmorin, Monsieur de Malesherbes, + and Monsieur de Lamoignon, the <i>Garde des Sceaux</i>, are his near + relations. Probably something will be done for him, and without delay. The + promise of the former administration to the Count de Moutier, to succeed + to this vacancy, should it take place, will perhaps be performed by the + present one. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Barclay has probably informed you of his having been arrested in + Bordeaux, for a debt contracted in the way of his commerce. He immediately + applied to the parliament of that place, who ordered his discharge. This + took place after five days’ actual imprisonment. I arrived at Bordeaux a + few days after his liberation. As the Procureur General of the King had + interested himself to obtain it, with uncommon zeal, and that too on + public principles, I thought it my duty to wait on him and return him my + thanks. I did the same to the President of the parliament, for the body + over which he presided; what would have been an insult in America, being + an indispensable duty here. You will see by the enclosed printed paper, on + what grounds the Procureur insisted on Mr. Barclay’s liberation. Those on + which the parliament ordered it, are not expressed. On my arrival here, I + spoke with the minister on the subject. He observed, that the character of + Consul is no protection in this country, against process for debt: that as + to the character with which Mr. Barclay had been invested at the court of + Morocco, it was questionable whether it would be placed on the diplomatic + line, as it had not been derived immediately from Congress; that if it + were, it would have covered him to Paris only, where he had received his + commission, had he proceeded directly thither, but that his long stay at + Bordeaux, must be considered as terminating it there. I observed to him, + that Mr. Barclay had been arrested almost immediately on his arrival at + Bordeaux. But, says he, the arrest was made void by the parliament, and + still he has continued there several weeks. True, I replied, but his + adversaries declared they would arrest him again, the moment he should be + out of the jurisdiction of the parliament of Bordeaux, and have actually + engaged the <i>MarĂ©chausĂ©e</i> on the road, to do it. This seemed to + impress him. He said he could obtain a letter of safe conduct which would + protect him to Paris, but that immediately on his arrival here, he would + be liable to arrest. I asked him, if such a letter could not be obtained + to protect him to Paris, and back to Bordeaux, and even to America? He + said, that for that, the consent of the greater part of his creditors + would be necessary; and even with this, it was very doubtful whether it + could be obtained: still, if I would furnish him with that consent, he + would do what should depend on him. I am persuaded he will, and have + written to Mr. Barclay to obtain the consent of his creditors. This is the + footing on which this matter stands at present. I have stated it thus + particularly, that you may know the truth, which will probably be + misrepresented in the English papers, to the prejudice of Mr. Barclay. + This matter has been a great affliction to him, but no dishonor where its + true state is known. Indeed he is incapable of doing any thing not + strictly honorable. + </p> + <p> + In a letter of August the 30th, 1785, I had the honor of mentioning to you + what had passed here, on the subject of a convention for the regulation of + the two post offices. I now inclose you a letter from the Baron D’Ogny, + who is at the head of that department, which shows that he still expects + some arrangement. I have heard it said, that M. de Creve-coeur is + authorized to treat on this subject. You doubtless know if this be true. + The articles may certainly be better adjusted there, than here. This + letter from the Baron D’Ogny was in consequence of an application from a + servant of mine, during my absence, which would not have been made had I + been here. Nor will it be repeated; it being my opinion and practice to + pay small sums of money, rather than to ask favors. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to inclose you also, copies of a letter and papers from + the Marechal de Castries, on the claim of an individual against the State + of South Carolina, for services performed on board the Indian; and the + petition of another, on a like claim: also copies of letters received from + O’Bryan at Algiers, and from Mr. Lambe. A letter of the 26th of May, from + Mr. Montgomery, at Alicant, informs me, that by a vessel arrived at + Carthagena from Algiers, they learn the death of the Dey of that republic. + Yet, as we hear nothing of it through any other channel, it may be + doubted. It escaped me at the time of my departure to Aix, to make + arrangements for sending you the gazettes regularly, by the packets. The + whole are now sent, though a great part of them are so old as to be not + worth perusal. Your favor of April the 24th, has been duly received. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor,to be, with sentiments of the most perfect esteem and + respect. Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0063" id="link2H_4_0063"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXII.—TO MADAME DE CORNY, June 30,1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO MADAME DE CORNY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, June 30,1787. + </p> + <p> + On my return to Paris, it was among my first attentions to go to the rue + ChaussĂ©e d’Antin, No. 17, and inquire after my friends whom I had left + there. I was told they were in England. And how do you like England, + Madam? I know your taste for the works of art gives you little disposition + to Anglomania. Their mechanics certainly exceed all others in some lines. + But be just to your own nation. They have not patience, it is true, to set + rubbing a piece of steel from morning to night, as a lethargic Englishman + will do, full charged with porter. But do not their benevolence, their + cheerfulness, their amiability, when compared with the growling temper and + manners of the people among whom you are, compensate their want of + patience? I am in hopes that when the splendor of their shops, which is + all that is worth seeing in London, shall have lost the charm of novelty, + you will turn a wishful eye to the good people of Paris, and find that you + cannot be so happy with any others. The Bois de Boulogne invites you + earnestly to come and survey its beautiful verdure, to retire to its + umbrage from the heats of the season. I was through it to-day, as I am + every day. Every tree charged me with this invitation to you. Passing by + la Muette, it wished for you as a mistress. You want a country-house. This + is for sale; and in the Bois de Boulogne, which I have always insisted to + be most worthy of your preference. Come then, and buy it. If I had had + confidence in your speedy return, I should have embarrassed you in earnest + with my little daughter. But an impatience to have her with me, after her + separation from her friends, added to a respect for your ease, has induced + me to send a servant for her. + </p> + <p> + I tell you no news, because you have correspondents infinitely more <i>au + fait</i> of the details at Paris than I am. And I offer you no services, + because I hope you will come as soon as the letter could, which should + command them. Be assured, however, that nobody is more disposed to render + them, nor entertains for you a more sincere and respectful attachment, + than him, who, after charging you with his compliments to Monsieur de + Corny, has the honor of offering you the homage of those sentiments of + distinguished esteem and regard, with which he is, Dear Madam, your most + obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0064" id="link2H_4_0064"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXIII.—TO JOHN ADAMS, July 1, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN ADAMS. + </p> + <p> + Paris, July 1, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I returned about three weeks ago from a very useless voyage; useless, I + mean, as to the object which first suggested it, that of trying the effect + of the mineral waters of Aix, in Provence, on my hand. I tried these, + because recommended among six or eight others as equally beneficial, and + because they would place me at the beginning of a tour to the seaports of + Marseilles, Bordeaux, Nantes, and L’Orient, which I had long meditated, in + hopes that a knowledge of the places and persons concerned in our + commerce, and the information to be got from them, might enable me + sometimes to be useful. I had expected to satisfy myself at Marseilles, of + the causes of the difference of quality between the rice of Carolina, and + that of Piedmont, which is brought in quantities to Marseilles. Not being + able to do it, I made an excursion of three weeks into the rice country + beyond the Alps, going through it from Vercelli to Pavia, about sixty + miles. I found the difference to be, not in the management, as had been + supposed both here and in Carolina, but in the species of rice; and I hope + to enable them in Carolina, to begin the cultivation of the Piedmont rice, + and carry it on, hand in hand, with their own, that they may supply both + qualities which is absolutely necessary at this market. I had before + endeavored to lead the depot of rice from Cowes to Honfleur, and hope to + get it received there on such terms, as may draw that branch of commerce + from England to this country. It is an object of two hundred and fifty + thousand guineas a year. While passing through the towns of Turin, Milan, + and Genoa, I satisfied myself of the practicability of introducing our + whale-oil for their consumption, and suppose it would be equally so in the + other great cities of that country. I was sorry that I was not authorized + to set the matter on foot. The merchants with whom I chose to ask + conferences met me freely, and communicated fully, knowing I was in a + public character. I could, however, only prepare a disposition to meet our + oil-merchants. On the article of tobacco, I was more in possession of my + ground; and put matters into a train for inducing their government to draw + their tobaccos directly from the United States, and not, as heretofore, + from Great Britain. I am now occupied with the new ministry here, to put + the concluding hand to the new regulations for our commerce with this + country, announced in the letter of Monsieur de Calonne, which I sent you + last fall. I am in hopes, in addition to those, to obtain a suppression of + the duties on tar, pitch, and turpentine, and, an extension of the + privileges of American <i>whale oil</i>, to their <i>fish oils</i> in + general. I find that the quantity of cod-fish oil brought to L’Orient is + considerable. This being got off hand (which will be in a few days), the + chicaneries and vexations of the Farmers on the article of tobacco, and + their elusions of the order of Bernis, call for the next attention. I have + reasons to hope good dispositions in the new ministry towards our commerce + with this country. Besides endeavoring, on all occasions, to multiply the + points of contact and connection with this country, which I consider as + our surest mainstay under every event, I have had it much at heart to + remove from between us every subject of misunderstanding or irritation. + Our debts to the King, to the Officers, and the Farmers, are of this + description. The having complied with no part of our engagements in these, + draws on us a great deal of censure, and occasioned a language in the <i>AssemblĂ©e + des Notables</i>, very likely to produce dissatisfaction between us. Dumas + being on the spot in Holland, I had asked of him some time ago, in + confidence, his opinion of the practicability of transferring these debts + from France to Holland, and communicated his answer to Congress, pressing + them to get you to go over to Holland, and try to effect this business. + Your knowledge of the ground, and former successes, occasioned me to take + this liberty without consulting you, because I was sure you would not + weigh your personal trouble against public good. I have had no answer from + Congress; but hearing of your journey to Holland, have hoped that some + money operation had led you there. If it related to the debts of this + country, I would ask a communication of what you think yourself at liberty + to communicate, as it might change the form of my answers to the eternal + applications I receive. The debt to the officers of France, carries an + interest of about two thousand guineas, so we may suppose its principal is + between thirty and forty thousand. This makes more noise against us, than + all our other debts put together. + </p> + <p> + I send you the <i>ArrĂŞts</i> which begin the reformation here, and some + other publications respecting America; together with copies of letters + received from O’Bryan and Lambe. It is believed, that a naval armament has + been ordered at Brest, in correspondence with that of England. We know, + certainly, that orders are given to form a camp in the neighborhood of + Brabant, and that Count Rochambeau has the command of it. Its amount I + cannot assert. Report says fifteen thousand men. This will derange the + plans of economy. I take the liberty of putting under your cover a letter + for Mrs. Kinloch, of South Carolina, with a packet, and will trouble you + to inquire for her, and have them delivered. The packet is of great + consequence, and therefore referred to her care, as she will know the safe + opportunities of conveying it. Should you not be able to find her, and can + forward the packet to its address, by any very safe conveyance, I will beg + you to do it. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect friendship and + esteem, Dear Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0065" id="link2H_4_0065"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXIV.—TO DAVID HARTLEY, July 2,1787 + </h2> + <h3> + TO DAVID HARTLEY. + </h3> + <p> + Paris, July 2,1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I received lately your favor of April the 23d, on my return from a journey + of three or four months; and am always happy in an occasion of recalling + myself to your memory. The most interesting intelligence from America, is + that respecting the late insurrection in Massachusetts. The cause of this + has not been developed to me to my perfect satisfaction. The most probable + is, that those individuals were of the imprudent number of those who have + involved themselves in debt beyond their abilities to pay, and that a + vigorous effort in that government to compel the payment of private debts, + and raise money for public ones, produced the resistance. I believe you + may be assured, than an idea or desire of returning to any thing like + their ancient government, never entered into their heads. I am not + discouraged by this. For thus I calculate. An insurrection in one of + thirteen States, in the course of eleven years that they have subsisted, + amounts to one in any particular state, in one hundred and forty-three + years, say a century and a half. This would not be near as many as have + happened in every other government that has ever existed. So that we shall + have the difference between a light and a heavy government as clear gain. + I have no fear, but that the result of our experiment will be, that men + may be trusted to govern themselves without a master. Could the contrary + of this be proved, I should conclude, either that there is no God, or that + he is a malevolent being. You have heard of the federal convention, now + sitting at Philadelphia, for the amendment of the Confederation. Eleven + States appointed delegates certainly; it was expected that Connecticut + would also appoint, the moment its Assembly met. Rhode Island had refused. + I expect they will propose several amendments; that that relative to our + commerce will probably be adopted immediately, but that the others must + wait to be adopted, one after another, in proportion as the minds of the + States ripen for them. Dr. Franklin enjoys good health. I shall always be + happy to hear from you, being, with sentiments of very sincere esteem and + respect, Dear Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0066" id="link2H_4_0066"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXV.—TO B. VAUGHAN, July 2, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO B. VAUGHAN. + </p> + <p> + Paris, July 2, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Your favor of February the 16th came to my hands in the moment I was + setting out on a tour through the southern parts of France and northern of + Italy, from which I am but just now returned. I avail myself of the + earliest moment to acknowledge its receipt, and to thank you for the box + of magnets which I found here. Though I do not know certainly by or from + whom they come, I presume they came by Colonel Smith, who was here in my + absence, and from Messrs. Nairne and Blunt, through your good offices. I + think your letter of February the 16th flatters me with the expectation of + another, with observations on the hygrometers I had proposed. I value what + comes from you too much, not to remind you of it. Your favor by Mr. + Garnett also came during my absence. I presume he has left Paris, as I can + hear nothing of him. I have lost the opportunity, therefore, of seeing his + method of resisting friction, as well as of showing, by attentions to him, + respect for yourself and your recommendations. Mr. Paine (Common Sense) is + here on his way to England. He has brought the model of an iron bridge, + with which he supposes a single arch of four hundred feet may be made. It + has not yet arrived in Paris. Among other projects, with which we begin to + abound in America, is one for finding the longitude by the variation of + the magnetic needle. The author supposes two points, one near each pole, + through the northern of which pass all the magnetic meridians of the + northern hemisphere, and through the southern those of the southern + hemisphere. He determines their present position and periodical + revolution. It is said his publication is plausible. I have not seen it. + </p> + <p> + What are you going to do with your naval armament on your side the + channel. Perhaps you will ask me, what they are about to do here. A + British navy and Prussian army hanging over Holland on one side, a French + navy and army hanging over it on the other, looks as if they thought of + fighting. Yet I think both parties too wise for that, too laudably intent + on economizing, rather than on further embarrassing their finances. May + they not propose to have a force on the spot to establish some neutral + form of a constitution, which these powers will cook up among themselves, + without consulting the parties for whom it is intended? The affair of + Geneva shows such combinations possible. Wretched, indeed, is the nation, + in whose affairs foreign powers are once permitted to intermeddle. Lord + Wycombe is with us at present. His good sense, information, and discretion + are much beyond his years, and promise good things for your country. + </p> + <p> + I beg you to accept assurances of the esteem/and respect, with which I + have the honor to be, Dear Sir, your most obedient and most humble + servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0067" id="link2H_4_0067"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXVI.—TO M. L’ABBE MORELLET, July 2, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO M. L’ABBE MORELLET. + </p> + <p> + Paris, July 2, 1787. + </p> + <p> + I am sorry, my Dear Sir, that your interest should be affected by the ill + behavior of Barrois. But when you consider the facts, you will be sensible + that I could not have indulged his indolence further, without increasing + the injury to a more punctual workman. Stockdale, of London, had asked + leave to print my Notes. I agreed to it; and promised he should have the + plate of the map as soon as it should be corrected, and the copies struck + off for you and myself. He thereupon printed his edition completely in + three weeks. The printer, who was to strike off two hundred and fifty maps + for me, kept the plate but five days. It was then delivered to Barrois, + with notice that it could not be left longer with him, than should suffice + to strike off his number. Repeated applications for it, by Mr. Short and + my servant, were only answered by repeated promises, and times of delivery + fixed, no one of which was performed. When I returned, he had been + possessed of the plate upwards of two months. I was astonished and + confounded, to be told it had not been sent to Stockdale, and that his + edition had been lying dead on his hands three months. I sent to Barrois + the very day of my return, to let him know, that justice to Stockdale did + not permit me to defer sending him the plate any longer: yet I would wait + five days, at the end of which he must deliver me the plate, whether his + maps were done or not. I received no answer, but waited ten days. I then + sent for the plate. The answer was, he was not at home. I sent again the + next day. Answer, he was not at home. I sent the third day. Not at home. I + then ordered the messenger to go back, and wait till he should come home. + This produced an answer of two lines, <i>qu’il alloit soigner son ouvrier?</i> + I wrote him word in return, to deliver the plate instantly. This I think + was on a Saturday or Sunday. He told the messenger he would let me have it + the Thursday following. I took patience, and sent on the Friday, but + telling the messenger, if he refused to deliver it, to inform him I would + be plagued no more with sending messages, but apply to the police. He then + delivered it, and I sent it off immediately to London. He had kept it + three months, of which three weeks were after my return. I think, Sir, you + will be satisfied that justice to Stockdale, justice to myself, who had + passed my word for sending on the plate, and sensibility to the shuffling + conduct of Barrois, permitted me to act no otherwise. But no matter. Let + his ill behavior make no odds between you and me. It will affect your + interest, and that suffices to determine me to order back the plate, as + soon as Stockdale has done with it. He will not require more days, than + Barrois months. So that it will be here before you can want it. But it + must never go into Barrois’ hands again, nor of any person depending on + him, or under his orders. The workman who struck off the two hundred and + fifty for me, seems to have been diligent enough. Either he, or any other + workman you please of that description, shall have it, to strike what + number you wish. I forgot to observe, in its proper place, that when I was + in the midst of my difficulties, I did myself the honor of calling on you, + as well to have that of asking after your health on my return, as of + asking your assistance to obtain the plate. Unluckily you were gone to + Versailles; so I was obliged to proceed as well as I could. It is no + excuse for Barrois, to say, he could not get his <i>imprimeur</i> to + proceed. He should have applied to another. But as to you, it shall be set + to rights in the manner I have before stated. Accept my regret that you + were in the hands of so underserving a workman, and one who placed me + under the necessity of interrupting a work which interested you. Be + assured, at the same time, of the sincerity of those sentiments of esteem + and respect with which I have the honor to be, Dear Sir, your most + obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0068" id="link2H_4_0068"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + OBSERVATIONS ON THE LETTER OF MONSIEUR DE CALONNE + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [The following observations appear to have been addressed to + the Count de Montmorin, about the 6th of July, 1787.] +</pre> + <p> + Observations on the Letter of Monsieur de Calonne to Monsieur Jefferson, + dated, Fontainbleau, October 22, 1786. + </p> + <p> + A committee was appointed, in the course of the last year, to take a view + of the subjects of commerce which might be brought from the United States + of America, in exchange for those of France, and to consider what + advantages and facilities might be offered to encourage that commerce. The + letter of Monsieur de Calonne was founded on their report. It was + conclusive as to the articles on which satisfactory information had been + then obtained, and reserved, for future consideration, certain others, + needing further inquiry. It is proposed now to review those unfinished + articles, that they may also be comprehended in the <i>ArrĂŞt</i>, and the + regulations on this branch of commerce be rendered complete. + </p> + <p> + 1. The letter promised to diminish the <i>Droits du Roi et d’amirautè</i>, + payable by an American vessel entering into a port at France, and to + reduce what should remain into a single duty, which shall be regulated by + the draught of the vessel, or her number of masts. It is doubted whether + it will be expedient to regulate the duty, in either of these ways. If by + the draught,of water, it will fall unequally on us as a nation; because we + build our vessels sharp-bottomed, for swift sailing, so that they draw + more water than those of other nations, of the same burthen. If by the + number of masts, it will fall unequally on individuals; because we often + see ships of one hundred and eighty tons, and brigs of three hundred and + sixty. This, then, would produce an inequality among individuals, of six + to one. The present principle is the most just, to regulate by the + burthen. It is certainly desirable, that these duties should be reduced to + a single one. Their names and numbers perplex and harass the merchant, + more than their amount; subject him to imposition, and to the suspicion of + it when there is none. An intention of general reformation in this article + has been accordingly announced, with augmentation as to foreigners. We are + in hopes, that this augmentation is not to respect us; because it is + proposed as a measure of reciprocity, whereas, in some of our States, no + such duties exist, and in others they are extremely light; because we have + been made to hope a diminution, instead of augmentation; and because this + distinction cannot draw on France any just claims from other nations; the + <i>jura gentis amicissima</i>, conferred by her late treaties, having + reference expressly to the nations of Europe only; and those conferred by + the more ancient ones not being susceptible of any other interpretation, + nor admitting a pretension of reference to a nation which did not then + exist, and which has come into existence under circumstances + distinguishing its commerce from that of all other nations. Merchandise + received from them, takes employment from the poor of France; ours gives + it: theirs is brought in, the last stage of manufacture; ours in the + first: we bring our tobaccos to be manufactured into snuff, our flax and + hemp into linen and cordage, our furs into hats, skins into saddlery, + shoes, and clothing; we take nothing till it has received the last hand. + </p> + <p> + 2. Fish-oils. The Hanseatic treaty was the basis, on which the diminution + of duty on this article was asked and granted. It is expressly referred to + as such, in the letter of Monsieur de Calonne. Instead, however, of the + expression, <i>huile et graisse de baleine et d’autres poisons</i>, used + in that treaty, the letter uses the terms, ‘<i>huiles de baleine, + spermaceti, et tout ce qui est compris sous ces denominations.</i>’ And + the Farmers have availed themselves of this variation, to refuse the + diminution of duty on the oils of the <i>vache marine, chien de mer, + esturgeon</i>, and other fish. It is proposed, therefore, to re-establish + in the <i>ArrĂŞt</i>, the expression of the Hanseatic treaty, and to add, + from the same treaty, the articles ‘<i>baleine coupĂ©e et fanon de baleine</i>.’ + </p> + <p> + The letter states these regulations as finally made by the King. The + merchants, on this supposition, entered into speculations. But they found + themselves called on for the old duties, not only on other fish-oils, but + on the whale-oil. Monsieur de Calonne always promised, that the <i>ArrĂŞt</i> + should be retrospective to the date of the letter, so as to refund to them + the duties they had thus been obliged to pay. To this, attention is prayed + in forming the <i>ArrĂŞt</i>. His majesty having been pleased, as an + encouragement to the importation of our fish-oils, to abolish the <i>Droits + de fabrication</i>, it is presumed that the purpose announced, of + continuing those duties on foreign oils, will not be extended to us. + </p> + <p> + 3. Rice. The duty on this, is only seven and a half deniers the quintal, + or about one quarter per cent, on its first cost. While this serves to + inform a government of the quantities imported, it cannot discourage that + importation. Nothing further, therefore, is necessary on this article. + </p> + <p> + 4. <i>Potasse</i>. This article is of principal utility to France, in her + bleacheries of linen, glass-works, and soap-works; and the potash of + America, being made of green wood, is known to be the best in the world. + All duty on it was, therefore, abolished by the King. But the city of + Rouen levies on it a duty of twenty sols the quintal, which is very + sensible in its price, brings it dearer to the bleacheries near Paris, to + those of Beauvais, Laval, &c. and to the glass-works, and encourages + them to give a preference to the potash or soude of other nations. This is + a counteraction of the views of the King, expressed in the letter, which + it is hoped will be prevented. + </p> + <p> + 5. Turpentine, tar, and pitch were not decided on, on the former occasion. + Turpentine (<i>tĂ©rĂ©benthine</i>) pays ten sols the quintal, and ten sols + the livre, making fifteen sols the quintal; which is ten per cent, on its + prime cost. Tar (<i>goudron, braigras</i>) pays eight livres the <i>leth</i> + of twelve barrels, and ten sols the livre, amounting to twenty sols the + barrel; which is twelve and a half per cent, on its prime cost. Pitch (<i>brai + sec</i>) pays ten sols the quintal, and ten sols the livre, making fifteen + sols the quintal; which is twenty per cent, on its prime cost. Duties of + from ten to twenty per cent., on articles of heavy carriage, prevent their + importation. They eat up all the profits of the merchant, and often + subject him to loss. This has been much the case with respect to + turpentine, tar, and pitch, which are principal articles of remittance for + the State of North Carolina. It is hoped, that it will coincide with the + views of government, in making the present regulations, to suppress the + duties on these articles, which, of all others, can bear them least. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0069" id="link2H_4_0069"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXVII.—TO T. M. RANDOLPH, JUNIOR, July 6, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO T. M. RANDOLPH, JUNIOR. + </p> + <p> + Paris, July 6, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Your favor of April the 14th came here during my absence on a journey + through the southern parts of France and northern of Italy, from which I + am but lately returned. This cause alone, has prevented your receiving a + more early answer to it. I am glad to find, that among the various + branches of science presenting themselves to your mind, you have fixed on + that of politics as your principal pursuit. Your country will derive from + this a more immediate and sensible benefit. She has much for you to do. + For though we may say with confidence, that the worst of the American + constitutions, is better than the best which ever existed before, in any + other country, and that they are wonderfully perfect for a first essay, + yet every human essay must have defects. It will remain, therefore, to + those now coming on the stage of public affairs, to perfect what has been + so well begun by those, going off it. Mathematics, Natural Philosophy, + Natural History, Anatomy, Chemistry, Botany, will become amusements for + your hours of relaxation, and auxiliaries to your principal studies. + Precious and delightful ones they will be. As soon as such a foundation is + laid in them, as you may build on as you please, hereafter, I suppose you + will proceed to your main objects, Politics, Law, Rhetoric, and History. + As to these, the place where you study them is absolutely indifferent. I + should except Rhetoric, a very essential member of them, and which I + suppose must be taught to advantage where you are. You would do well, + therefore, to attend the public exercises in this branch also, and to do + it with very particular diligence. This being done, the question arises, + where you shall fix yourself for studying Politics, Law, and History. I + should not hesitate to decide in favor of France, because you will, at the + same time, be learning to speak the language of that country, become + absolutely essential under our present circumstances. The best method of + doing this, would be to fix yourself in some family where there are women + and children, in Passy, Auteuil, or some other of the little towns in + reach of Paris. The principal hours of the day you will attend to your + studies, and in those of relaxation associate with the family. You will + learn to speak better from women and children in three months, than from + men in a year. Such a situation, too, will render more easy a due + attention to economy of time and money. Having pursued your main studies + here about two years, and acquired a facility in speaking French, take a + tour of four or five months through this country and Italy, return then to + Virginia, and pass a year in Williamsburg, under the care of Mr. Wythe; + and you will be ready to enter on the public stage, with superior + advantages. I have proposed to you to carry on the study of the law, with + that of politics and history. Every political measure will, for ever, have + an intimate connection with the laws of the land; and he who knows nothing + of these, will always be perplexed, and often foiled by adversaries having + the advantage of that knowledge over him. Besides, it is a source of + infinite comfort to reflect, that under every change of fortune, we have a + resource in ourselves, from which we may be able to derive an honorable + subsistence. I would, therefore, propose not only the study, but the + practice of the law for some time, to possess yourself of the habit of + public speaking. With respect to modern languages, French, as I have + before observed, is indispensable. Next to this, the Spanish is most + important to an American. Our connection with Spain is already important, + and will become daily more so. Besides this, the ancient part of American + history is written chiefly in Spanish. To a person who would make a point + of reading and speaking French and Spanish, I should doubt the utility of + learning Italian. These three languages, being all degeneracies from the + Latin, resemble one another so much, that I doubt the probability of + keeping in the head a distinct knowledge of them all. I suppose that he + who learns them all, will speak a compound of the three, and neither + perfectly. The journey which I propose to you, need not be expensive, and + would be very useful. With your talents and industry, with science, and + that steadfast honesty which eternally pursues right, regardless of + consequences, you may promise yourself every thing—but health, + without which there is no happiness. An attention to health, then, should + take place of every other object. The time necessary to secure this by + active exercises, should be devoted to it, in preference to every other + pursuit. I know the difficulty with which a studious man tears himself + from his studies, at any given moment of the day. But his happiness, and + that of his family, depend on it. The most uninformed mind with a healthy + body, is happier than the wisest valetudinarian. I need not tell you, that + if I can be useful to you in any part of this, or any other plan you shall + adopt, you will make me happy by commanding my services. + </p> + <p> + Will you be so good, Sir, as to return my most respectful thanks for the + diploma with which I am honored by the society instituted with you, for + the encouragement of the study of Natural History. I am afraid it will + never be in my power to contribute any thing to the object of the + institution. Circumstances have thrown me into a very different line of + life; and not choice, as I am happy to find in your case. In the year + 1781, while confined to my room by a fall from my horse, I wrote some + Notes, in answer to the inquiries of M. de Marbois, as to the natural and + political state of Virginia. They were hasty and undigested: yet as some + of these touch slightly on some objects of its natural history, I will + take the liberty of asking the society to accept a copy of them. For the + same reason, and because too, they touch on the political condition of our + country, I will beg leave to present you with a copy, and ask the favor of + you to find a conveyance for them, from London to Edinburgh. They are + printed by Stockdale, bookseller, Piccadilly, and will be ready in three + or four weeks from this time. I will direct him to deliver two copies to + your order. Repeating, constantly, the proffer of my services, I shall + only add assurances of the esteem and attachment, with which I am, Dear + Sir, your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0070" id="link2H_4_0070"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXVIII.—TO STEPHEN CATHALAN, JUNIOR, July 21,1787 + </h2> + <h3> + TO STEPHEN CATHALAN, JUNIOR. + </h3> + <p> + Paris, July 21,1787. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I received your favor of May the 9th, just as I was stepping into the + barge on my departure from Cette; which prevented my answering it from + that place. On my arrival here, I thought I would avail myself of the + opportunity of paying your balance, to make a little acquaintance with Sir + John Lambert. One or two unsuccessful attempts to find him at home, with + the intermediate procrastinations well known to men of business, prevented + my seeing him till yesterday, and have led me on to this moment, through a + perpetual remorse of conscience for not writing to you, and in the + constant belief that it would be to morrow and to morrow. At length, I + have seen him, paid him the eighty-five livres which you have been so kind + as to advance for me, and am actually at my writing table, returning you + thanks for this kindness, and to yourself and the family for the thousand + others I received at their hands, at Marseilles. My journey, after leaving + you, wanted nothing but the company of Madame Cathalan and yourself, to + render it perfectly agreeable. I felt the want of it peculiarly on the <i>canal + de Languedoc</i>, where, with society, the mode of travelling would have + been charming. I was much indebted to M. Minaudier, for a good equipment + from Agde, and unceasing attentions to that place; for which I was + indebted to your recommendations as well as to his goodness. + </p> + <p> + I am honored with your father’s letters of June the 30th; and as he does + not read English, and I cannot write French, I must beg leave to answer + him through you. I thank him for his hints on the subject of tobacco. I am + now pressing for arrangements as to that article, to take place on the + expiration of Mr. Morris’s contract, and the order of Bernis. What form + this business will take, or what will be the nature of the arrangements, + or whether there will be any, I am as yet unable to say. I will take care + to inform you the moment there is a decision. + </p> + <p> + The public business with which Mr. Barclay has been charged rendering it + necessary for him to repair to Congress, and the interest of his + creditors, his family, and himself requiring his return to America, he has + departed for that country. I know nothing of Mr. Barclay’s affairs in this + country. He has good possessions in America, which, he assured me, were + much more than sufficient to satisfy all the demands against him. He went, + determined to convert those immediately into money, and to collect the + debts due to him there, that he might be enabled to pay his debts. My + opinion of his integrity is such, as to leave no doubt in my mind, that he + will do every thing in his power to render justice to his creditors; and I + know so well his attachment to M. Cathalan, as to be satisfied, that if he + makes any difference among his creditors, he will be among the most + favored. Mr. Barclay is an honest and honorable man, and is more goaded + towards the payment of his debts by his own feelings, than by all the + processes of law, which could be set on foot against him. + </p> + <p> + No arrangements having ever been made as yet, for cases like that of the + carpenter of the American ship Sally, I am unable to answer on that + subject. I am in hopes, his money will last till he recovers his senses, + or till we can receive instructions what to do in that and similar cases. + </p> + <p> + M. Cathalan wishes a copy of my Notes on Virginia. If you will be so good + as to advise me by what channel they will go safely, I will do myself the + honor of sending a copy, either of the original or of the translation. + Present me affectionately to Mrs. Cathalan, the mother and daughter; tell + the latter I feed on the hopes of seeing her one day at Paris. My friendly + respects wait also on your father; and on yourself, assurances of the + esteem and consideration with which I have the honor to be, Dear Sir, your + most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0071" id="link2H_4_0071"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXIX.—TO THE DELEGATES OF RHODE ISLAND, July 22,1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO THE DELEGATES OF RHODE ISLAND. + </p> + <p> + Paris, July 22,1787. + </p> + <p> + Gentlemen, + </p> + <p> + I was honored, in the month of January last, with a letter from the + honorable the Delegates of Rhode Island in Congress, enclosing a letter + from the corporation of Rhode Island College to his Most Christian + Majesty, and some other papers. I was then in the hurry of a preparation + for a journey into the south of France, and therefore unable, at that + moment, to make the inquiries which the object of the letter rendered + necessary. As soon as I returned, which was in the last month, I turned my + attention to that object, which was the establishment of a professorship + of the French language in the College, and the obtaining a collection of + the best French authors, with the aid of the King. That neither the + College nor myself might be compromitted uselessly, I thought it necessary + to sound, previously, those who were able to inform me what would be the + success of the application. I was assured, so as to leave no doubt, that + it would not be complied with; that there had never been an instance of + the King’s granting such a demand in a foreign country, and that they + would be cautious of setting the precedent: that in this moment, too, they + were embarrassed with the difficult operation of putting down all + establishments of their own, which could possibly be dispensed with, in + order to bring their expenditures down to the level of their receipts. + Upon such information I was satisfied, that it was most prudent not to + deliver the letter, and spare to both parties the disagreeableness of + giving and receiving a denial. The King did give to two colleges in + America copies of the works printing in the public press. But were this to + be obtained for the College of Rhode Island, it would extend only to a + volume or two of Buffon’s works, still to be printed, Manilius’s + Astronomicon, and one or two other works in the press, which are of no + consequence. I did not think this an object for the College worth being + pressed. I beg the favor of you, gentlemen, to assure the corporation, + that no endeavors of mine should have been spared, could they have + effected their wish: and that they have been faithfully used in making the + preliminary inquiries which are necessary, and which ended in an + assurance, that nothing could be done. These papers having been + transmitted to me through your delegation, will, I hope, be an apology for + my availing myself of the same channel for communicating the result. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect esteem and + respect, Gentlemen, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0072" id="link2H_4_0072"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXX.—TO THE COUNT DE MONTMORIN, July 23, 1787 + </h2> + <h3> + TO THE COUNT DE MONTMORIN. + </h3> + <p> + Paris, July 23, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I had the honor, a few days ago, of putting into the hands of your + Excellency, some observations on the other articles of American produce, + brought into the ports of this country. That of our tobaccos, from the + particular form of their administration here, and their importance to the + King’s revenues, has been placed on a separate line, and considered + separately. I will now ask permission to bring that subject under your + consideration. + </p> + <p> + The mutual extension of their commerce was among the fairest advantages to + be derived to France and the United States, from the independence of the + latter. An exportation of eighty millions, chiefly in raw materials, is + supposed to constitute the present limits of the commerce of the United + States with the nations of Europe; limits, however, which extend as their + population increases. To draw the best proportion of this into the ports + of France, rather than of any other nation, is believed to be the wish and + interest of both. Of these eighty millions, thirty are constituted by the + single article of tobacco. Could the whole of this be brought into the + ports of France, to satisfy its own demands, and the residue to be + re-vended to other nations, it would be a powerful link of commercial + connection. But we are far from this. Even her own consumption, supposed + to be nine millions, under the administration of the monopoly to which it + is farmed, enters little, as an article of exchange, into the commerce of + the two nations. When this article was first put into Farm, perhaps it did + not injure the commercial interests of the kingdom; because nothing but + British manufactures were then allowed to be given in return for American + tobaccos. The laying the trade open, then, to all the subjects of France, + could not have relieved her from a payment in money. Circumstances are + changed; yet the old institution remains. The body to which this monopoly + was given, was not mercantile. Their object is to simplify, as much as + possible, the administration of their affairs. They sell for cash; they + purchase, therefore, with cash. Their interest, their principles, and + their practice seem opposed to the general interest of the kingdom, which + would require, that this capital article should be laid open to a free + exchange for the productions of this country. So far does the spirit of + simplifying their operations govern this body, that, relinquishing the + advantages to be derived from a competition of sellers, they contracted + some time ago with a single person (Mr. Morris) for three years’ supplies + of American tobacco, to be paid for in cash. They obliged themselves, too, + expressly, to employ no other person to purchase in America, during that + term. In consequence of this, the mercantile houses of France, concerned + in sending her productions to be exchanged for tobacco, cut off for three + years from the hope of selling these tobaccos in France, were of necessity + to abandon that commerce. In consequence of this, too, a single + individual, constituted sole purchaser of so great a proportion of the + tobaccos made, had the price in his own power. A great reduction in it + took place, and that not only on the quantity he bought, but on the whole + quantity made. The loss to the States producing the article, did not go to + cheapen it for their friends here. Their price was fixed. What was gained + on their consumption, was to enrich the person purchasing it; the rest, + the monopolists and merchants of other countries. The effect of this + operation was vitally felt by every farmer in America, concerned in the + culture of this plant. At the end of the year, he found he had lost a + fourth or a third of his revenue; the State, the same proportion of its + subjects of exchange with other nations: the manufactures of this country, + too, were either not to go there at all, or go through the channel of a + new monopoly, which, freed from the control of competition in prices and + qualities, was not likely to extend their consumption. It became necessary + to relieve the two countries from the fatal effects of this double + monopoly. I had the honor of addressing a letter, on the 15th day of + August, 1785, to his late Excellency, the Count de Vergennes, upon this + subject, a copy of which I do myself the honor herein to enclose. The + effectual mode of relief was to lay the commerce open. But the King’s + interest was also to be guarded. A committee was appointed to take this + matter into consideration; and the result was, an order to the Farmers + General, that no such contract should be made again. And to furnish such + aliment as might keep that branch of commerce alive, till the expiration + of the present contract, they were required to put the merchants in + general on a level with Mr. Morris, for the quantity of twelve or fifteen + thousand hogsheads a year. That this relief, too, might not be intercepted + from the merchants of the two suffering nations, by those of a neighboring + one, and that the transportation of so bulky an article might go to + nourish their own shipping, no tobaccos were to be counted of this + purchase, but those brought in French or American vessels. Of this order, + made at Bernis, his Excellency, Count de Vergennes, was pleased to honor + me with a communication, by a letter of the 30th of May, 1786; desiring + that I would publish it as well in America as to the American merchants in + France. I did so; communicating it to Congress at the same time. This + order, thus viewed, with the transactions which produced it, will be seen + to have been necessary; and its punctual and candid execution has been + rendered still more so, by the speculations of the merchants, entered into + on the faith of it. Otherwise it would become the instrument of their ruin + instead of their relief. A twelvemonth has elapsed some time since; and it + is questioned, whether the Farmers General have purchased, within that + time, the quantity prescribed, and on the conditions prescribed. It would + be impossible for the merchants to prove the negative; it will be easy for + the Farmers General to show the affirmative, if it exists. I hope that a + branch of commerce of this extent, will be thought interesting enough to + both nations to render it the desire of your Excellency to require, as I + deem it my duty to ask, a report of the purchases they have made, + according to the conditions of the order of Bernis, specifying in that + report, 1. The quantities purchased; 2. the prices paid; 3. the dates of + the purchase and payment; 4. the flag of the vessel in which imported; 5. + her name; 6. her port of delivery; and 7. the name of the seller. The four + first articles make part of the conditions required by the order of + Bernis; the three last may be necessary for the correction of any errors, + which should happen to arise in the report. + </p> + <p> + But the order of Bernis was never considered but as a temporary relief. + The radical evil will still remain. There will be but one purchaser in the + kingdom, and the hazard of his refusal will damp every mercantile + speculation. It is very much to be desired, that before the expiration of + this order, some measure may be devised, which may bring this great + article into free commerce between the two nations. Had this been + practicable at the time it was put into Farm, that mode of collecting the + revenue would probably never have been adopted: now that it has become + practicable, it seems reasonable to discontinue this mode, and to + substitute some of those practised on other imported articles, on which a + revenue is levied, without absolutely suppressing them in commerce. If the + revenue can be secured, the interests of a few individuals will hardly be + permitted to weigh against those of as many millions, equally subjects of + his Majesty, and against those, too, of a nation allied to him by all the + ties of treaty, of interest, and of affection. The privileges of the most + favored nation have been mutually exchanged by treaty. But the productions + of other nations, which do not rival those of France, are suffered to be + bought and sold freely within the kingdom. By prohibiting all his + Majesty’s subjects from dealing in tobacco, except with a single company, + one third of the exports of the United States are rendered uncommerciable + here. This production is so peculiarly theirs, that its shackles affect no + other nation. A relief from these shackles will form a memorable epoch in + the commerce of the two nations. It will establish at once a great basis + of exchange serving, like a point of union, to draw to it other members of + our commerce. Nature, too, has conveniently assorted our wants and our + superfluities to each other. Each nation has exactly to spare the articles + which the other wants. We have a surplus of rice, tobacco, furs, peltry, + potash, lamp-oils, timber, which France wants; she has a surplus of wines, + brandies, esculent oils, fruits, and manufactures of all kinds, which we + want. The governments have nothing to do, but not to hinder their + merchants from making the exchange. The difference of language, laws, and + customs, will be some obstacle for a time; but the interest of the + merchants will surmount them. A more serious obstacle is our debt to Great + Britain. Yet, since the treaty between this country and that, I should not + despair of seeing that debt paid, in part, with the productions of France, + if our produce can obtain here a free course of exchange for them. The + distant prospect is still more promising. A century’s experience has + shown, that we double our numbers every twenty or twenty-five years. No + circumstance can be foreseen, at this moment, which will lessen our rate + of multiplication for centuries to come. For every article of the + productions and manufactures of this country, then, which can be + introduced into habit there, the demand will double every twenty or + twenty-five years. And to introduce the habit, we have only to let the + merchants alone. Whether we may descend, by a single step, from the + present state to that of perfect freedom of commerce in this article; + whether any, and what, intermediate operation may be necessary to prepare + the way to this; what cautions must be observed for the security of his + Majesty’s revenue, which we do not wish to impair, will rest with the + wisdom of his ministers, whose knowledge of the subject will enable them + to devise the best plans, and whose patriotism and justice will dispose + them to pursue them. To the friendly dispositions of your Excellency, of + which we have had such early and multiplied proofs, I take the liberty of + committing this subject, particularly, trusting that some method may be + devised of reconciling the collection of his Majesty’s revenues with the + interests of the two nations; and have the honor of assuring you of those + sincere sentiments of esteem and respect, with which I am your + Excellency’s most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0073" id="link2H_4_0073"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXXI.—TO MR. SKIPWITH, July 28, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO MR. SKIPWITH. + </p> + <p> + Paris, July 28, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + A long journey has prevented me from writing to any of my friends for some + time past. This was undertaken with a view to benefit a dislocated and + ill-set wrist, by the mineral waters of Aix, in Provence. Finding this + hope vain, I was led from other views to cross the Alps as far as Turin, + Milan, Genoa; to follow the Mediterranean as far as Cette, the canal of + Languedoc, the Garonne, &c, to Paris. A most pleasing journey it + proved; arts and agriculture offering something new at every step, and + often things worth our imitation. But the accounts from our country give + me to believe, that we are not in a condition to hope for the imitation of + any thing good. All my letters are filled with details of our + extravagance. From these accounts, I look back to the time of the war, as + a time of happiness and enjoyment, when amidst the privation of many + things not essential to happiness, we could not run in debt, because + nobody would trust us; when we practised, of necessity, the maxim of + buying nothing but what we had money in our pockets to pay for; a maxim, + which, of all others, lays the broadest foundation for happiness. I see no + remedy to our evils, but an open course of law. Harsh as it may seem, it + would relieve the very patients who dread it, by stopping the course of + their extravagance, before it renders their affairs entirely desperate. + The eternal and bitter strictures on our conduct, which teem in every + London paper, and are copied from them into others, fill me with anxiety + on this subject. The state of things in Europe is rather threatening at + this moment. The innovations of the Emperor in his dominions, have excited + a spirit of resistance. His subjects in Brabant and Flanders are arming, + and he has put forty-five thousand troops in motion towards that country. + I believe they will come to blows. The parties in Holland have already + spilt too much blood to be easily stopped. If left to themselves, I + apprehend the Stadtholderians will be too strong; and if foreign powers + interfere, the weight is still on their side. England and Prussia will be + too much for France. As it is certain that neither of these powers wish + for war, and that England and France are particularly averse to it, + perhaps the matter may end in an armed mediation. If the mediators should + not agree, they will draw their negotiations into length, and trust to the + chapter of accidents for their final solution. With respect to our + country, it stands well with the present ministry here. The non-payment of + our debt is against us. We are occupied in procuring favorable terms of + reception for our produce. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + Adieu, my Dear Sir, and be assured of the sentiments of sincere esteem of + your affectionate friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0074" id="link2H_4_0074"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXXII.—TO J. W. EPPES, July 28,1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO J. W. EPPES. + </p> + <p> + Paris, July 28,1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Jack, + </p> + <p> + The letter which you were so kind as to write to me the 22nd of May, 1786, + was not delivered to me till the 3rd of May, 1787, when it found me in the + neighborhood of Marseilles. Before that time you must have taken your + degree, as mentioned in your letter. Those public testimonies which are + earned by merit, and not by solicitation, may always be accepted without + the imputation of vanity. Of this nature is the degree which your masters + proposed to confer on you. I congratulate you sincerely on it. It will be + a pleasing event to yourself; it will be the same to your parents and + friends, and to none more than myself. Go on deserving applause, and you + will be sure to meet with it: and the way to deserve it, is to be good, + and to be industrious. I am sure you will be good, and hope you will be + industrious. As to your future plan, I am too distant from you, to advise + you on sure grounds. In general, I am of opinion that till the age of + about sixteen, we are best employed on languages; Latin, Greek, French, + and Spanish, or such of them as we can. After this, I think the College of + William and Mary the best place to go through courses of Mathematics, + Natural Philosophy in its different branches, and Law. Of the languages I + have mentioned, I think Greek the least useful. Write me word, from time + to time, how you go on. I shall always be glad to assist you with any + books you may have occasion for, and you may count with certainty on every + service I can ever render you, as well as on the sincere esteem of, Dear + Jack, yours affectionately, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0075" id="link2H_4_0075"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXXIII.—TO A. DONALD, July 28, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO A. DONALD. + </p> + <p> + Paris, July 28, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I received with infinite satisfaction your letter of the 1st of March: it + was the first information I had of your being in America. There is no + person whom I shall see again with more cordial joy, whenever it shall be + my lot to return to my native country; nor any one whose prosperity, in + the mean time, will be more interesting to me. I find as I grow older, + that I set a higher value on the intimacies of my youth, and am more + afflicted by whatever loses one of them to me. Should it be in my power to + render any service, in your shipment of tobacco to Havre de Grace, I shall + do it with great pleasure. The order of Bernis has, I believe, been evaded + by the Farmers General as much as possible. At this moment, I receive + information from most of the seaports, that they refuse taking any + tobacco, under the pretext, that they have purchased their whole quantity. + From Havre I have heard nothing, and believe you will stand a better + chance there than any where else. Being one of the ports of manufacture, + too, it is entitled to a higher price. I have now desired that the Farmers + may make a distinct return of their purchases, which are conformable to + the order of Bernis. If they have really bought their quantity, on those + terms, we must be satisfied: if they have not, I shall propose their being + obliged to make it up instantly. There is a considerable accumulation of + tobacco in the ports. + </p> + <p> + Among many good qualities which my countrymen possess, some of a different + character unhappily mix themselves. The most remarkable are indolence, + extravagance, and infidelity to their engagements. Cure the two first, and + the last would disappear, because it is a consequence of them, and not + proceeding from a want of morals. I know of no remedy against indolence + and extravagance, but a free course of justice. Every thing else is merely + palliative: but unhappily, the evil has gained too generally the mass of + the nation, to leave the course of justice unobstructed. The maxim of + buying nothing without the money in our pockets to pay for it, would make + of our country one of the happiest upon earth. Experience during the war + proved this; as I think every man will remember, that under all the + privations it obliged him to submit to, during that period, he slept + sounder, and awaked happier than he can do now. Desperate of finding + relief from a free course of justice, I look forward to the abolition of + all credit, as the only other remedy which can take place. I have seen, + therefore, with pleasure, the exaggerations of our want of faith, with + which the London papers teem. It is, indeed, a strong medicine for + sensible minds, but it is a medicine. It will prevent their crediting us + abroad, in which case, we cannot be credited at home. I have been much + concerned at the losses produced by the fire of Richmond. I hope you have + escaped them. It will give me much pleasure to hear from you, as often as + you can spare a moment to write. Be assured that nobody entertains for you + sentiments of more perfect and sincere esteem than, Dear Sir, your friend + and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0076" id="link2H_4_0076"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXXIV.—TO WILLIAM DRAYTON, July 30, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO WILLIAM DRAYTON. + </p> + <p> + Paris, July 30, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + Having observed that the consumption of rice in this country, and + particularly in this capital, was very great, I thought it my duty to + inform myself from what markets they draw their supplies, in what + proportion from ours, and whether it might not be practicable to increase + that proportion. This city being little concerned in foreign commerce, it + is difficult to obtain information on particular branches of it in the + detail. I addressed myself to the retailers of rice, and from them + received a mixture of truth and error, which I was unable to sift apart in + the first moment. Continuing, however, my inquiries, they produced at + length this result; that the dealers here, were in the habit of selling + two qualities of rice, that of Carolina, with which they were supplied + chiefly from England, and that of Piedmont: that the Carolina rice was + long, slender, white, and transparent, answers well when prepared with + milk, sugar, &ic. but not so well when prepared <i>au gras</i>; that + that of Piedmont was shorter, thicker, and less white, but that it + presented its form better when dressed <i>au gras</i>, was better tasted, + and therefore preferred by good judges for those purposes: that the + consumption of rice, in this form, was much the most considerable, but + that the superior beauty of the Carolina rice, seducing the eye of those + purchasers who are attached to appearances, the demand for it was upon the + whole as great as for that of Piedmont. They supposed this difference of + quality to proceed from a difference of management; that the Carolina rice + was husked with an instrument which broke it more, and that less pains + were taken to separate the broken from the unbroken grains; imagining that + it was the broken grains which dissolved in oily preparations: that the + Carolina rice costs somewhat less than that of Piedmont; but that being + obliged to sort the whole grains from the broken, in order to satisfy the + taste of their customers, they ask and receive as much for the first + quality of Carolina, when sorted, as for the rice of Piedmont; but the + second and third qualities, obtained by sorting, are sold much cheaper. + The objection to the Carolina rice then, being, that it crumbles in + certain forms of preparation, and this supposed to be the effect of a less + perfect machine for husking, I flattered myself I should be able to learn + what might be the machine of Piedmont, when I should arrive at Marseilles, + to which place I was to go in the course of a tour through the seaport + towns of this country. At Marseilles, however, they differed as much in + the account of the machine, as at Paris they had differed about other + circumstances. Some said it was husked between mill-stones, others between + rubbers of wood in the form of mill-stones, others of cork. They concurred + in one fact, however, that the machine might be seen by me, immediately on + crossing the Alps. This would be an affair of three weeks. I crossed them, + and went through the rice country from Vercelli to Pavia, about sixty + miles. I found the machine to be absolutely the same with that used in + Carolina, as well as I could recollect a description which Mr. E. Rutledge + had given me of it. It is on the plan of a powder-mill. In some of them, + indeed, they arm each pestle with an iron tooth, consisting of nine spikes + hooped together, which I do not remember in the description of Mr. + Rutledge. I therefore had a tooth made, which I have the honor of + forwarding you with this letter; observing, at the same time, that as many + of their machines are without teeth as with them, and of course, that the + advantage is not very palpable. It seems to follow, then, that the rice of + Lombardy (for though called Piedmont rice, it does not grow in that + country, but in Lombardy) is of a different species from that of Carolina; + different in form, in color, and in quality. We know that in Asia they + have several distinct species of this grain. Monsieur Poivre, a former + Governor of the Isle of France, in travelling through several countries of + Asia, observed with particular attention the objects of their agriculture, + and he tells us, that in Cochin-China they cultivate six several kinds of + rice, which he describes, three of them requiring water, and three growing + on highlands. The rice of Carolina is said to have come from Madagascar, + and De Poivre tells us, it is the white rice which is cultivated there. + This favors the probability of its being of a different species + originally, from that of Piedmont; and time, culture, and climate may have + made it still more different. Under this idea, I thought it would be well + to furnish you with some of the Piedmont rice, unhusked, but was told it + was contrary to the laws to export it in that form. I took such measures + as I could, however, to have a quantity brought out, and lest these should + fail, I brought, myself, a few pounds. A part of this I have addressed to + you by the way of London; a part comes with this letter; and I shall send + another parcel by some other conveyance, to prevent the danger of + miscarriage. Any one of them arriving safe, may serve to put in seed, + should the society think it an object. This seed, too, coming from + Vercelli, where the best rice is supposed to grow, is more to be depended + on, than what may be sent me hereafter. There is a rice from the Levant, + which is considered as of a quality still different, and some think it + superior to that of Piedmont. The troubles which have existed in that + country for several years back, have intercepted it from the European + market, so that it is become almost unknown. I procured a bag of it, + however, at Marseilles, and another of the best rice of Lombardy, which + are on their way to this place, and when arrived, I will forward you a + quantity of each, sufficient to enable you to judge of their qualities + when prepared for the table. I have also taken measures to have a quantity + of it brought from the Levant, unhusked. If I succeed, it shall be + forwarded in like manner. I should think it certainly advantageous to + cultivate, in Carolina and Georgia, the two qualities demanded at market; + because the progress of culture, with us, may soon get beyond the demand + for the white rice; and because, too, there is often a brisk demand for + the one quality, when the market is glutted with the other. I should hope + there would be no danger of losing the species of white rice, by a + confusion with the other. This would be a real misfortune, as I should not + hesitate to pronounce the white, upon the whole, the most precious of the + two, for us. + </p> + <p> + The dry rice of Cochin-China has the reputation of being the whitest to + the eye, best flavored to the taste, and most productive. It seems then to + unite the good qualities of both the others known to us. Could it supplant + them, it would be a great happiness, as it would enable us to get rid of + those ponds of stagnant water, so fatal to human health and life. But such + is the force of habit, and caprice of taste, that we could not be sure + beforehand, it would produce this effect. The experiment, however, is + worth trying, should it only end in producing a third quality, and + increasing the demand. I will endeavor to procure some to be brought from + Cochin-China. The event, however, will be uncertain and distant. + </p> + <p> + I was induced, in the course of my journey through the south of France, to + pay very particular attention to the objects of their culture, because the + resemblance of their climate to that of the southern parts of the United + States authorizes us to presume we may adopt any of their articles of + culture, which we would wish for. We should not wish for their wines, + though they are good and abundant. The culture of the vine is not + desirable in lands capable of producing any thing else. It is a species of + gambling, and of desperate gambling too, wherein, whether you make much or + nothing, you are equally ruined. The middling crop alone is the saving + point, and that the seasons seldom hit. Accordingly, we see much + wretchedness among this class of cultivators. Wine, too, is so cheap in + these countries, that a laborer with us, employed in the culture of any + other article, may exchange it for wine, more and better than he could + raise himself. It is a resource for a country, the whole of whose good + soil is otherwise employed, and which still has some barren spots, and a + surplus of population to employ on them. There the vine is good, because + it is something in the place of nothing. It may become a resource to us at + a still earlier period: when the increase of population shall increase our + productions beyond the demand for them, both at home and abroad. Instead + of going on to make an useless surplus of them, we may employ our + supernumerary hands on the vine. But that period is not yet arrived. + </p> + <p> + The almond tree is also so precarious, that none can depend for + subsistence on its produce, but persons of capital. + </p> + <p> + The caper, though a more tender plant, is more certain in its produce, + because a mound of earth of the size of a cucumber hill, thrown over the + plant in the fall, protects it effectually against the cold of winter. + When the danger of frost is over in the spring, they uncover it, and begin + its culture. There is a great deal of this in the neighborhood of Toulon. + The plants are set about eight feet apart, and yield, one year with + another, about two pounds of caper each, worth on the spot six pence + sterling the pound. They require little culture, and this may be performed + either with the plough or hoe. The principal work is the gathering of the + fruit as it forms. Every plant must be picked every other day, from the + last of June till the middle of October. But this is the work of women and + children. This plant does well in any kind of soil which is dry, or even + in walls where there is no soil, and it lasts the life of a man. Toulon + would be the proper port to apply for them. I must observe, that the + preceding details cannot be relied on with the fullest certainty, because, + in the canton where this plant is cultivated, the inhabitants speak no + written language, but a medley, which I could understand but very + imperfectly. + </p> + <p> + The fig and mulberry are so well known in America, that nothing need be + said of them. Their culture, too, is by women and children, and therefore + earnestly to be desired in countries where there are slaves. In these, the + women and children are often employed in labors disproportioned to their + sex and age. By presenting to the master objects of culture, easier and + equally beneficial, all temptation to misemploy them would be removed, and + the lot of this tender part of our species be much softened. By varying + too the articles of culture, we multiply the chances for making something, + and disarm the seasons, in a proportionable degree, of their calamitous + effects. + </p> + <p> + The olive is a tree the least known in America, and yet the most worthy of + being known. Of all the gifts of heaven to man, it is next to the most + precious, if it be not the most precious. Perhaps it may claim a + preference even to bread; because there is such an infinitude of + vegetables, which it renders a proper and comfortable nourishment. In + passing the Alps at the Col de Tende, where they are mere masses of rock, + wherever there happens to be a little soil, there are a number of olive + trees, and a village supported by them. Take away these trees, and the + same ground, in corn, would not support a single family. A pound of oil, + which can be bought for three or four pence sterling, is equivalent to + many pounds of flesh, by the quantity of vegetables it will prepare, and + render fit and comfortable food. Without this tree, the country of + Provence and territory of Genoa, would not support one half, perhaps not + one third, their present inhabitants. The nature of the soil is of little + consequence, if it be dry. The trees are planted from fifteen to twenty + feet apart, and when tolerably good, will yield fifteen or twenty pounds + of oil yearly, one with another. There are trees which yield much more. + They begin to render good crops at twenty years old, and last till killed + by cold, which happens at some time or other, even in their best positions + in France. But they put out again from their roots. In Italy, I am told, + they have trees of two hundred years old. They afford an easy but constant + employment through the year, and require so little nourishment, that if + the soil be fit for any other production, it may be cultivated among the + olive trees, without injuring them. The northern limits of this tree, are + the mountains of the Cevennes, from about the meridian of Carcassonne to + the Rhone, and from thence, the Alps and Apennines as far as Genoa, I + know, and how much farther I am not informed. The shelter of these + mountains may be considered as equivalent to a degree and a half of + latitude, at least; because westward of the commencement of the Cevennes, + there are no olive trees in 43 1/2° or even 43° of latitude, whereas, we + find them now on the Rhone at Pierrelatte, in 44 1/2°, and formerly they + were at Tains, above the mouth of the Isere, in 45°, sheltered by the near + approach of the Cevennes and Alps, which only leave there a passage for + the Rhone. Whether such a shelter exists or not, in the States of South + Carolina and Georgia, I know not. But this we may say, either that it + exists, or that it is not necessary there; because we know that they + produce the orange in open air; and wherever the orange will stand at all, + experience shows that the olive will stand well; being a hardier tree. + Notwithstanding the great quantities of oil made in France, they have not + enough for their own consumption, and therefore import from other + countries. This is an article, the consumption of which will always keep + pace with its production. Raise it; and it begets its own demand. Little + is carried to America, because Europe has it not to spare. We therefore + have not learned the use of it. But cover the southern States with it, and + every man will become a consumer of oil, within whose reach it can be + brought, in point of price. If the memory of those persons is held in + great respect in South Carolina, who introduced there the culture of rice, + a plant which sows life and death with almost equal hand, what obligations + would be due to him who should introduce the olive tree, and set the + example of its culture! Were the owner of slaves to view it only as the + means of bettering their condition, how much would he better that, by + planting one of those trees for every slave he possessed! Having been + myself an eye-witness to the blessings which this tree sheds on the poor, + I never had my wishes so kindled for the introduction of any article of + new culture into our own country. South Carolina and Georgia appear to me + to be the States, wherein its success, in favorable positions at least, + could not be doubted, and I flattered myself, it would come within the + views of the society for agriculture, to begin the experiments which are + to prove its practicability. Carcassonne is the place from which the + plants may be most certainly and cheaply obtained. They can be sent from + thence by water to Bordeaux, where they may be embarked on vessels bound + to Charleston. There is too little intercourse between Charleston and + Marseilles, to propose this as the port of exportation. I offer my + services to the society, for the obtaining and forwarding any number of + plants which may be desired. + </p> + <p> + Before I quit the subject of climates, and the plants adapted to them, I + will add, as a matter of curiosity, and of some utility too, that my + journey through the southern parts of France, and the territory of Genoa, + but still more the crossing of the Alps, enabled me to form a scale of the + tenderer plants, and to arrange them according to their different powers + of resisting cold. In passing the Alps at the Col de Tende, we cross three + very high mountains, successively. In ascending, we lose these plants, one + after another, as we rise, and find them again in the contrary order, as + we descend on the other side; and this is repeated three times. Their + order, proceeding from the tenderest to the hardiest, is as follows. + Caper, orange, palm, aloe, olive, pomegranate, walnut, fig, almond. But + this must be understood of the plant only; for as to the fruit, the order + is somewhat different. The caper, for example, is the tenderest plant; + yet, being so easily protected, it is among the most certain in its fruit. + The almond, the hardiest plant, loses its fruit the oftenest, on account + of its forwardness. The palm, hardier than the caper and orange, never + produces perfect fruit here. + </p> + <p> + I had the honor of sending you, the last year, some seeds of the sulla of + Malta, or Spanish saintfoin. Lest they should have miscarried, I now pack + with the rice a canister of the same kind of seed, raised by myself. By + Colonel Franks, in the month of February last, I sent a parcel of acorns + of the cork-oak, which I desired him to ask the favor of the Delegates of + South Carolina in Congress, to forward to you. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect esteem and + respect, Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0077" id="link2H_4_0077"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXXV.—TO JAMES MADISON, August 2, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO JAMES MADISON. + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 2, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + My last was of June the 20th. Yours, received since that date, are of May + the 15th, and June the 6th. In mine, I acknowledged the receipt of the + paccan nuts which came sealed up. I have reason to believe those in the + box have arrived at L’Orient. By the Mary, Captain Howland, lately sailed + from Havre to New York, I shipped three boxes of books, one marked J. M. + for yourself, one marked B. F. for Dr. Franklin, and one marked W. H. for + William Hay in Richmond. I have taken the liberty of addressing them all + to you, as you will see by the enclosed bill of lading, in hopes you will + be so good as to forward the other two. You will have opportunities of + calling on the gentlemen for the freight, &c. In yours, you will find + the books, noted in the account enclosed herewith. You have now Mably’s + works complete, except that on Poland, which I have never been able to + get, but shall not cease to search for. Some other volumes are wanting + too, to complete your collection of Chronologies. The fourth volume of + D’Albon was lost by the bookbinder, and I have not yet been able to get + one to replace it. I shall continue to try. The <i>Memoires sur les Droits + et Impositions en Europe</i> (cited by Smith) was a scarce and excessively + dear book. They are now reprinting it. I think it will be in three or four + quartos, of from nine to twelve livres a volume. When it is finished, I + shall take a copy for you. Amelot’s Travels into China, I can learn + nothing of. I put among the books sent you, two somewhat voluminous, and + the object of which will need explanation; these are the <i>Tableau de + Paris</i> and <i>L’Espion Anglois</i>. The former is truly a picture of + private manners in Paris, but presented on the dark side, and a little + darkened moreover. But there is so much truth in its groundwork, that it + will be well worth your reading. You will then know Paris (and probably + the other large cities of Europe) as well as if you had been there for + years. <i>L’Espion Anglois</i> is no caricature. It will give you a just + idea of the wheels by which the machine of government is worked here. + There are in it, also, many interesting details of the last war, which, in + general, may be relied on. It may be considered as the small history of + great events. I am in hopes, when you shall have read them, you will not + think I have misspent your money for them. My method for making out this + assortment was, to revise the list of my own purchases since the invoice + of 1785, and to select such as I had found worth your having. Besides + this, I have casually met with, and purchased, some few curious and cheap + things. + </p> + <p> + I must trouble you on behalf of a Mr. Thomas Burke, at Loughburke near + Loughrea in Ireland, whose brother, James Burke, is supposed to have died, + in 1785, on his passage from Jamaica, or St. Eustatius, to New York. His + property on board the vessel is understood to have come to the hands of + Alderman Groom at New York. The enclosed copy of a letter to him will more + fully explain it. A particular friend of mine here, applies to me for + information, which I must ask the favor of you to procure, and forward to + me. + </p> + <p> + Writing news to others, much pressed in time, and making this letter one + of private business, I did not intend to have said any thing to you on + political subjects. But I must press one subject. Mr. Adams informs me he + has borrowed money in Holland, which, if confirmed by Congress, will + enable them to pay, not only the interest due here to the foreign + officers, but the principal. Let me beseech you to reflect on the + expediency of transferring this debt to Holland. All our other debts in + Europe do not injure our reputation so much as this. These gentlemen have + connections both in and out of office, and these again their connections, + so that our default on this article is further known, more blamed, and + excites worse dispositions against us, than you can conceive. If you think + as I do, pray try to procure an order for paying off their capital. Mr. + Adams adds, that if any certain tax is provided for the payment of + interest, Congress may borrow enough in Holland to pay off their whole + debts in France, both public and private, to the crown, to the Farmers, + and to Beaumarchais. Surely it will be better to transfer these debts to + Holland. So critical is the state of that country, that I imagine the + monied men of it, would be glad to place their money in foreign countries, + and that Mr. Adams could borrow there for us, without a certain tax for + the interest, and saving our faith too, by previous explanations on that + subject. This country is really supposed on the eve of a * * * *. Such a + spirit has risen within a few weeks, as could not have been believed. They + see the great deficit in their revenues, and the hopes of economy lessen + daily. The parliament refuse to register any act for a new tax, and + require an Assembly of the States. The object of this Assembly is + evidently to give law to the King, to fix a constitution, to limit + expenses. These views are said to gain upon the nation.* + </p> + <hr /> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [ * The parts of this letter marked by asterisks, are in + cipher, and unintelligible.] +</pre> + <p> + A final decision of some sort, should be made on Beaumarchais’ affairs. + </p> + <p> + I am, with sentiments of the most perfect esteem, Dear Sir, your friend + and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0078" id="link2H_4_0078"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXXVI.—TO THOMAS BARCLAY, August 3, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO THOMAS BARCLAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 3, 1787, + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I am now to acknowledge the receipt of your several favors of June the + 29th, and July the 6th and 8th. + </p> + <p> + I am of opinion that the affair of Geraud and Roland in Holland, had + better be committed to Mr. Dumas in Holland, as lawsuits must always be + attended to by some person on the spot. For the same reason, I think that + of La Vayse and Puchilberg should be managed by the agent at L’Orient, and + Gruel’s by the agent at Nantes. I shall always be ready to assist the + agents of L’Orient and Nantes, in any way in my power; but were the + details to be left to me, they would languish, necessarily, on account, of + my distance from the place, and perhaps suffer too, for want of verbal + consultations with the lawyers entrusted with them. You are now with + Congress, and can take their orders on the subject. I shall therefore, do + nothing in these matters, in reliance that you will put them into such + channel as they direct, furnishing the necessary documents and + explanations. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + With respect to French’s affair, being perfectly satisfied myself, I have + not ceased, nor shall I ‘cease, endeavoring to satisfy others, that your + conduct has been that of an honest and honorable debtor, and theirs the + counterpart of Shylock in the play. I enclose you a letter containing my + testimony on your general conduct, which I have written to relieve a debt + of justice pressing on my mind, well knowing at the same time, you will + not stand in need of it in America. Your conduct is too well known to + Congress, your character to all the world, to need any testimonials. + </p> + <p> + The moment I close my despatches for the packet, which will be the 9th + instant, I shall with great pleasure go to pay my respects to Mrs. Barclay + at St. Germain, to satisfy her on the subject of your transactions, and to + assure her that my resources shall be hers, as long as I have any. A + multitude of letters to write, prevents my entering into the field of + public news, further than to observe, that it is extremely doubtful + whether the affairs of Holland will, or will not produce a war between + France, on one side, and England and Prussia, on. the other. + </p> + <p> + I beg you to accept assurances of the sincere esteem and respect, with + which I have the honor to be, Dear Sir, your friend + </p> + <p> + and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0079" id="link2H_4_0079"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXXVII.—TO E. CARRINGTON, August 4,1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO E. CARRINGTON. + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 4,1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Since mine of the 16th of January, I have been honored by your favors of + April the 24th and June the 9th. I am happy to find that the States have + come so generally into the scheme of the federal convention, from which, I + am sure, we shall see wise propositions. I confess, I do not go as far in + the reforms thought necessary, as some of my correspondents in America; + but if the convention should adopt such propositions, I shall suppose them + necessary. My general plan would be, to make the States one as to every + thing connected with foreign nations, and several as to every thing purely + domestic. But with all the imperfections of our present government, it is, + without comparison, the best existing, or that ever did exist. Its + greatest defect is the imperfect manner in which matters of commerce have + been provided for. It has been so often said, as to be generally believed, + that Congress have no power by the Confederation to enforce any thing; for + example, contributions of money. It was not necessary to give them that + power expressly; they have it by the law of nature. When two parties make + a compact, there results to each a power of compelling the other to + execute it. Compulsion was never so easy as in our case, where a single + frigate would soon levy on the commerce of any State the deficiency of its + contributions; nor more safe than in the hands of Congress, which has + always shown that it would wait, as it ought to do, to the last + extremities, before it would execute any of its powers which are + disagreeable. I think it very material, to separate, in the hands of + Congress, the executive and legislative powers, as the judiciary already + are, in some degree. This, I hope, will be done. The want of it has been + the source of more evil, than we have experienced from any other cause. + Nothing is so embarrassing nor so mischievous, in a great assembly, as the + details of execution. The smallest trifle of that kind, occupies as long + as the most important act of legislation, and takes place of every thing + else. Let any man recollect, or look over, the files of Congress: he will + observe the most important propositions hanging over, from week to week, + and month to month, till the occasions have passed them, and the things + never done. I have ever viewed the executive details as the greatest cause + of evil to us, because they in fact place us as if we had no federal head, + by diverting the attention of that head from great to small objects; and + should this division of power not be recommended by the convention, it is + my opinion, Congress should make it, itself, by establishing an executive + committee. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sincere esteem and respect, Dear Sir, your + most obedient, humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson, + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0080" id="link2H_4_0080"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXXVIII.—TO DR. CURRIE, August 4, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO DR. CURRIE. + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 4, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I am favored with your letter of May the 2nd, and most cordially + sympathize in your late immense losses. It is a situation in which a man + needs the aid of all his wisdom and philosophy. But as it is better to + turn from the contemplation of our misfortunes, to the resources we + possess for extricating ourselves, you will, of course, have found solace + in your vigor of mind, health of body, talents, habits of business, in the + consideration that you have time yet to retrieve every thing, and a + knowledge that the very activity necessary for this, is a state of greater + happiness than the unoccupied one, to which you had a thought of retiring. + I wish the bulk of my extravagant countrymen had as good prospects and + resources as you. But with many of them, a feebleness of mind makes them + afraid to probe the true state of their affairs, and procrastinate the + reformation which alone can save something, to those who may yet be saved. + How happy a people were we during the war, from the single circumstance + that we could not run in debt! This counteracted all the inconveniences we + felt, as the present facility of ruining ourselves overweighs all the + blessings of peace. I know no condition happier than that of a Virginia + farmer might be, conducting himself as he did during the war. His estate + supplies a good table, clothes itself and his family with their ordinary + apparel, furnishes a small surplus to buy salt, sugar, coffee, and a + little finery for his wife and daughters, enables him to receive and to + visit his friends, and furnishes him pleasing and healthy occupation. To + secure all this, he needs but one act of self-denial, to put off buying + any thing till he has the money to pay for it. Mr. Ammonett did not come. + He wrote to me, however, and I am making inquiry for the town and family + he indicated. As yet, neither can be heard of, and were they to be found, + the length of time would probably bar all claims against them. I have seen + no object present so many desperate faces. However, if inquiry can lighten + our way, that shall not be wanting, and I will write to him as soon as we + discover any thing, or despair of discovering. Littlepage has succeeded + well in Poland. He has some office, it is said, worth five hundred guineas + a year. The box of seeds you were so kind as to forward me, came safe to + hand. The arrival of my daughter, in good health, has been a source of + immense comfort to me. The injury of which you had heard, was a dislocated + wrist, and though it happened eleven months ago, was a simple dislocation, + and immediately aided by the best surgeon in Paris, it is neither well, + nor ever will be, so as to render me much service. The fingers remain + swelled and crooked, the hand withered, and the joint having a very + confined motion. You ask me when I shall return. My commission expires + next spring, and if not renewed, I shall return then. If renewed, I shall + stay somewhat longer: how much, will not depend on me altogether. So far + as it does, I cannot fix the epoch of my return, though I always flatter + myself it is not very distant. My habits are formed to those of my own + country. I am past the time of changing them, and am, therefore, less + happy any where else than there. + </p> + <p> + I shall always be happy to hear from you, being with very sincere esteem, + Dear Sir, your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0081" id="link2H_4_0081"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXXIX.—TO MR. HAWKINS, August 4, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO MR. HAWKINS. + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 4, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have to acknowledge the receipt of your favors of March the 8th and June + the 9th, and to give you many thanks for the trouble you have taken with + the <i>dionæa muscipula</i>. I have not yet heard any thing of them, which + makes me fear they have perished by the way. I believe the most effectual + means of conveying them hither will be by the seed. I must add my thanks + too for the vocabularies. This is an object I mean to pursue, as I am + persuaded that the only method of investigating the filiation of the + Indian nations, is by that of their languages. + </p> + <p> + I look up with you to the federal convention, for an amendment of our + federal affairs; yet I do not view them in so disadvantageous a light at + present, as some do. And above all things, I am astonished at some + people’s considering a kingly government as a refuge. Advise such to read + the fable of the frogs, who solicited Jupiter for a king. If that does not + put them to rights, send them to Europe, to see something of the trappings + of monarchy, and I will undertake, that every man shall go back thoroughly + cured. If all the evils which can arise among us, from the republican form + of our government, from this day to the day of judgment, could be put into + a scale against what this country suffers from its monarchical form, in a + week, or England, in a month, the latter would preponderate. Consider the + contents of the Red Book in England, or the Almanac Royale of France, and + say what a people gain by monarchy. No race of kings has ever presented + above one man of common, sense, in twenty generations. The best they can + do is, to leave things to their ministers; and what are their ministers, + but a committee, badly chosen? If the king ever meddles, it is to do harm. + Adieu, my Dear Sir, and be assured of the esteem of your friend and + servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0082" id="link2H_4_0082"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXXX.—TO COLONEL MONROE, August 5, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO COLONEL MONROE. + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 5, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + A journey of between three and four months, into the southern parts of + France and northern of Italy, has prevented my writing to you. In the mean + time, you have changed your ground, and engaged in different occupations, + so that I know not whether the news of this side the water will even amuse + you. However, it is all I have for you. The storm which seemed to be + raised suddenly in Brabant, will probably blow over. The Emperor, on his + return to Vienna, pretended to revoke all the concessions which had been + made by his Governors General, to his Brabantine subjects; but he, at the + same time, called for deputies from among them to consult with. He will + use their agency to draw himself out of the scrape, and all there I think + will be quieted. Hostilities go on occasionally in Holland. France + espouses the cause of the Patriots, as you know, and England and Prussia + that of the Stadtholder. France and England are both unwilling to bring on + a war, but a hasty move of the King of Prussia will perplex them. He has + thought the stopping his sister sufficient cause for sacrificing a hundred + or two thousand of his subjects, and as many Hollanders and French. He has + therefore ordered twenty thousand men to march, without consulting + England, or even his own ministers. He may thus drag England into a war, + and of course this country, against their will. But it is certain they + will do every thing they can, to prevent it; and that in this, at least, + they agree. + </p> + <p> + Though such a war might be gainful to us, yet it is much to be deprecated + by us at this time. In all probability, France would be unequal to such a + war by sea and by land, and it is not our interest or even safe for us, + that she should be weakened. The great improvements in their constitution, + effected by the <i>AssemblĂ©e des Notables</i>, you are apprized of. That + of partitioning the country into a number of subordinate governments, + under the administration of Provincial Assemblies, chosen by the people, + is a capital one. But to the delirium of joy which these improvements gave + the nation, a strange reverse of temper has suddenly succeeded. The + deficiencies of their revenue were exposed, and they were frightful. Yet + there was an appearance of intention to economize and reduce the expenses + of government. But expenses are still very, inconsiderately incurred, and + all reformation in that point despaired of. The public credit is affected; + and such a spirit of discontent has arisen, as has never been seen. The + parliament refused to register the edict for a stamp tax, or any other + tax, and call for the States General, who alone, they say, can impose a + new tax. They speak with a boldness unexampled. The King has called them + to Versailles to-morrow, where he will hold a <i>lit de justice</i> and + compel them to register the tax. How the chapter will finish, we must wait + to see. By a vessel lately sailed from Havre to New York, I have sent you + some more <i>livraisons</i> of the <i>EncyclopĂ©die</i>, down to the 22nd + inclusive. They were in a box with Dr. Currie’s, and addressed to Mr. + Madison, who will forward them to Richmond. I have heard you are in the + Assembly. I will beg the favor of you, therefore, to give me, at the close + of the session, a history of the most remarkable acts passed, the parties + and views of the House, &c. This, with the small news of my country, + crops and prices, furnish you abundant matter to treat me, while I have + nothing to give you in return, but the history of the follies of nations + in their dotage. Present me in respectful and friendly terms to Mrs. + Monroe, and be assured of the sincere sentiments of esteem and attachment, + with which I am Dear Sir, your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0083" id="link2H_4_0083"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXXXI.—TO JOHN JAY, August 6,1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 6,1787. + </p> + <p> + The last letter I had the honor of addressing you was dated June the 21st. + I have now that of enclosing you a letter from the Swedish ambassador, + praying that inquiry may be made for a vessel of his nation, piratically + carried off, and measures taken relative to the vessel, cargo, and crew. + Also a letter from William Russell and others, citizens of America, + concerned in trade to the island of Guadaloupe, addressed to the Marechal + de Castries, and complaining of the shutting to them the port of Point a + Pitre, and receiving them only at Basse-terre. This was enclosed to me by + the subscribers, to be delivered to the Marechal de Castries. But the + present is not the moment to move in that business: and moreover, I + suppose, that whenever parties are within the reach of Congress, they + should apply to them, and my instructions come through that channel. + Matters, arising within the kingdom of France, to which my commission is + limited, and not admitting time to take the orders of Congress, I suppose + I may move in originally. I also enclose you the copy of a letter from Mr. + Barclay, closing his proceedings in our affairs with Morocco. Before this + reaches you, he will have had the honor of presenting himself to you in + person. After his departure, the parliament of Bordeaux decided that he + was liable to arrest. This was done on a letter from the minister, + informing them that Mr. Barclay was invested with no character which + privileged him from arrest. His constant character of consul was no + protection, and they did not explain whether his character to Morocco was + not originally diplomatic, or was expired. Mr. Barclay’s proceedings under + this commission being now closed, it would be incumbent on me to declare + with respect to them, as well as his consular transactions, my opinion of + the judgment, zeal, and disinterestedness with which he has conducted + himself; were it not that Congress has been so possessed of those + transactions from time to time, as to judge for themselves. I cannot but + be uneasy, lest my delay of entering on the subject of the consular + convention, may be disapproved. My hope was and is, that more practicable + terms might be obtained: in this hope, I do nothing till further orders, + observing by an extract from the journals you were pleased to send me, + that Congress have referred the matter to your consideration, and + conscious that we are not suffering in the mean time, as we have not a + single consul in France, since the departure of Mr. Barclay. I mentioned + to you in my last, the revival of the hopes of the Chevalier de la + Luzerne. I thought it my duty to remind the Count de Montmorin, the other + day, of the long absence of their minister from Congress. He told me, the + Chevalier de la Luzerne would not be sent back, but that we might rely, + that in the month of October a person would be sent, with whom we should + be content. He did not name the person, though there is no doubt that it + is the Count de Mourtier. It is an appointment, which, according to the + opinion I have formed of him, bids as fair to give content, as any one + which could be made. + </p> + <p> + I also mentioned in my last letter, that I had proposed the reducing the + substance of Monsieur de Calonne’s letter into the form of an <i>ArrĂŞt</i>, + with some alterations, which, on consultation with the merchants at the + different ports I visited, I had found to be necessary. I received soon + after a letter from the Comptroller General, informing me, that the letter + of Monsieur de Calonne was in a course of execution. Of this, I enclose + you a copy. I was, in that moment, enclosing to him my general + observations on that letter, a copy of which is also enclosed. In these I + stated all the alterations I wished to have made. It became expedient soon + after, to bring on the article of tobacco; first, to know whether the + Farmers had executed the order of Bernis, and also to prepare some + arrangements to succeed the expiration of this order. So that I am now + pursuing the whole subject of our commerce, 1. to have necessary + amendments made in Monsieur de Calonne’s letter; 2. to put it into a more + stable form; 3. to have full execution of the order of Bernis; 4. to + provide arrangements for the article of tobacco, after that order shall be + expired. By the copy of my letter on the two last points, you will + perceive that I again press the abolition of the Farm of this article. The + conferences on that subject give no hope of effecting that. Some poor + palliative is probably all we shall obtain. The Marquis de la Fayette goes + hand in hand with me in all these transactions, and is an invaluable + auxiliary to me. I hope it will not be imputed either to partiality or + affectation, my naming this gentleman so often in my despatches. Were I + not to do it, it would be a suppression of truth, and the taking to myself + the whole merit where he has the greatest share. + </p> + <p> + The Emperor, on his return to Vienna, disavowed the concessions of his + Governors General to his subjects of Brabant. He at the same time proposed + their sending deputies to him, to consult on their affairs. They refused + in the first moment; but afterwards nominated deputies; without giving + them any power, however, to concede any thing. In the mean time, they are + arming and training themselves. Probably the Emperor will avail himself of + the aid of these deputies, to tread back his steps. He will be the more + prompt to do this, that he may be in readiness to act freely, if he finds + occasion, in the new scenes preparing in Holland. What these will be, + cannot be foreseen. You well know, that the original party-divisions of + that country were into Stadtholderians, Aristocrats, and Democrats. There + was a subdivision of the Aristocrats, into violent and moderate, which was + important. The violent Aristocrats would have wished to preserve all the + powers of government in the hands of the Regents, and that these should + remain self-elective: but choosing to receive a modification of these + powers from the Stadtholder, rather than from the people, they threw + themselves into his scale. The moderate Aristocrats would have consented + to a temperate mixture of democracy, and particularly, that the Regents + should be elected by the people. They were the declared enemies of the + Stadtholder, and acted in concert with the Democrats, forming with them + what was called the Patriots. It is the opinion of dispassionate people on + the spot, that their views might have been effected. But the democratic + party aimed at more. They talked of establishing tribunes of the people, + of annual accounts, of depriving the magistrates at the will of the + people, &c.; of enforcing all this with the arms in the hands of the + <i>corps francs</i>; and in some places, as at Heusden, Sprang, &c. + began the execution of these projects. The moderate Aristocrats found it + difficult to strain their principles to this pitch. A schism took place + between them and the Democrats, and the former have for some time been + dropping off from the latter into the scale of the Stadtholder. This is + the fatal coalition which governs without obstacle in Zealand, Friesland, + and Guelderland, which constitutes the States of Utrecht, at Amersfort, + and, with their aid, the plurality in the States General. The States of + Holland, Groningen, and Overyssel, vote as yet in the opposition. But the + coalition gains ground in the States of Holland, and has been prevalent in + the Council of Amsterdam. If its progress be not stopped by a little + moderation in the Democrats, it will turn the scale decidedly in favor of + the Stadtholder, in the event of their being left to themselves without + foreign interference. If foreign powers interfere, their prospect does not + brighten. I see no sure friends to the Patriots but France, while Prussia + and England are their assured enemies. Nor is it probable, that characters + so greedy, so enterprising, as the Emperor and Empress, will be idle + during such a struggle. Their views have long shown which side they would + take. That France has engaged to interfere, and to support the Patriots, + is beyond doubt. This engagement was entered into during the life of the + late King of Prussia, whose eye was principally directed on the Emperor, + and whose dispositions towards the Prince of Orange would have permitted + him to be clipped a little close. But the present King comes in with + warmer dispositions towards the Princess his sister. He has shown + decidedly, that he will support her, even to the destruction of the + balance of Europe, and the disturbance of its peace. The King of England + has equally decided to support that house, at the risk of plunging his + nation into another war. He supplies the Prince with money at this moment. + A particular remittance of one hundred and twenty thousand guineas is + known of. But his ministry is divided. Pitt is against the King’s opinion, + the Duke of Richmond and the rest of the ministers for it. Or, at least, + such is the belief here. Mr. Adams will have informed you more certainly. + This division in the English ministry, with the ill condition of their + finances for war, produces a disposition even in the King, to try first + every pacific measure: and that country and this were laboring jointly to + stop the course of hostilities in Holland, to endeavor to effect an + accommodation, and were scarcely executing at all the armaments ordered in + their ports; when all of a sudden an inflammatory letter, written by the + Princess of Orange to the King of Prussia, induces him, without consulting + England, without consulting even his own Council, to issue orders by + himself to his generals, to march twenty thousand men to revenge the + insult supposed to be offered to his sister. With a pride and egotism + planted in the heart of every King, he considers her being stopped in the + road, as a sufficient cause to sacrifice a hundred or two thousand of his + own subjects, and as many of his enemies, and to spread fire, sword, and + desolation over the half of Europe. This hasty measure has embarrassed + England, undesirous of war, if it can be avoided, yet unwilling to + separate from the power who is to render its success probable. Still you + may be assured, that that court is going on in concurrence with this, to + prevent extremities, if possible; always understood, that if the war + cannot be prevented, they will enter into it as parties, and in opposition + to one another. This event is, in my opinion, to be deprecated by the + friends of France. She never was equal to such a war by land, and such a + one by sea; and less so now, than in any moment of the present reign. You + remember that the nation was in a delirium of joy on the convocation of + the <i>Notables</i>, and on the various reformations agreed on between + them and the government. The picture of the distress of their finances was + indeed frightful, but the intentions to reduce them to order seemed + serious. The constitutional reformations have gone on well, but those of + expenses make little progress. Some of the most obviously useless have + indeed been lopped off, but the remainder is a heavy mass, difficult to be + reduced. Despair has seized every mind, and they have passed from an + extreme of joy to one of discontent. The parliament, therefore, oppose the + registering any new tax, and insist on an Assembly of the States General. + The object of this is to limit expenses, and dictate a constitution. The + edict for the stamp tax has been the subject of reiterated orders and + refusals to register. At length, the King has summoned the parliament to + Versailles to hold a bed of justice, in which he will order them, in + person, to register the edict. At the moment of my writing, they are gone + to Versailles for this purpose. There will yet remain to them, to protest + against the register, as forced, and to issue orders against its execution + on pain of death. But as the King would have no peaceable mode of + opposition left, it remains to be seen, whether they will push the matter + to this extremity. It is evident, I think, that the spirit of this country + is advancing towards a revolution in their constitution. There are not + wanting persons at the helm, friends to the progress of this spirit. The + Provincial Assemblies will be the most probable instrument of effecting + it. + </p> + <p> + Since writing thus far, I have received an intimation, that it will be + agreeable not to press our commercial regulations at this moment, the + ministry being too much occupied with the difficulties surrounding them, + to spare a moment on any subject which will admit of delay. Our business + must, therefore, be suspended for a while. To press it out of season, + would be to defeat, it. It would be felt as a vital benefit here, could we + relieve their finances, by paying what we owe. Congress will judge by Mr. + Adams’s letters, how far the transferring all our debts in this country to + Holland is practicable. On the replenishing their treasury with our + principal and interest, I should not be afraid to ask concessions in favor + of our West India trade. It would produce a great change of opinion as to + us and our affairs. In the <i>AssemblĂ©e des Notables</i>, hard things were + said of us. They were induced, however, in committing us to writing, to + smother their ideas a little. In their votes, now gone to be printed, our + debt is described in these words. The twenty-first article of the account, + formed of the interest of the claims of his Majesty on the United States + of America, cannot be drawn out for the present, except as a document. The + recovery of these claims, as well principal as perhaps even interest, + although they appear to rest on the most solid security, may, + nevertheless, be long delayed, and should not, consequently, be taken into + account in estimating the annual revenue. This article amounts to one + million and six hundred thousand livres.’ Above all things, it is + desirable to hush the foreign officers by payment. Their wants, the nature + of their services, their access to high characters, and connections with + them, bespeak the reasons for this. I hear also that Mr. Beaumarchais + means to make himself heard, if a memorial which he sends by an agent in + the present packet is not attended to, as he thinks it ought to be. He + called on me with it, and desired me to recommend his case to a decision, + and to note in my despatch, that it was the first time he had spoken to me + on the subject. This is true, it being the first time I ever saw him; but + my recommendations would be as displaced as unnecessary. I assured him + Congress would do in that business what justice should require, and their + means enable them. The information sent me by Mr. Montgomery from Alicant, + of the death of the Dey of Algiers, was not true. I had expressed my doubt + of it in my last, when I communicated it. I send herewith the newspapers + to this date, and a remonstrance of the parliament, to show you in what + language the King can be addressed at this day. I have received no journal + of Congress since the beginning of November last, and will thank you for + them, if printed. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect esteem and + respect, Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + P. S. August 7. The parliament were received yesterday very harshly by the + King. He obliged them to register the two edicts for the <i>impĂ´t + territorial</i> and stamp tax. When speaking in my letter of the + reiterated orders and refusals to register, which passed between the King + and parliament, I omitted to insert the King’s answer to a deputation of + parliament, which attended him at Versailles. It may serve to show the + spirit which exists between them. It was in these words, and these only:—‘<i>Je + vous ferai savoir mes intentions. Allez-vous-en. Qu’on ferme la porte.</i>’ + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0084" id="link2H_4_0084"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXXXII.—TO JOHN CHURCHMAN, August 8, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN CHURCHMAN. + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 8, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have duly received your favor of June the 6th, and immediately + communicated its contents to a member of the Academy. He told me that they + had received the other copy of your memorial, which you mention to have + sent through another channel; that your ideas were not conveyed so + explicitly, as to enable them to decide finally on their merit, but that + they had made an entry in their journals, to preserve to you the claim of + the original idea. As far as we can conjecture it here, we imagine you + make a table of variations of the needle, for all the different meridians + whatever. To apply this table to use in the voyage between America and + Europe, suppose the variation to increase a degree in every one hundred + and sixty miles. Two difficulties occur; 1. a ready and accurate method of + finding the variation of the place; 2. an instrument so perfect, as that + (though the degree on it shall represent one hundred and sixty miles) it + shall give the parts of the degree so minutely, as to answer the purpose + of the navigator. The variation of the needle at Paris, actually, is 21° + west. I make no question you have provided against the doubts entertained + here, and I shall be happy that our country may have the honor of + furnishing the old world, what it has so long sought in vain. + </p> + <p> + I am with much respect, Sir, your most obedient, humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0085" id="link2H_4_0085"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXXXIII.—TO MONSIEUR L HOMMANDE, August 9, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO MONSIEUR L HOMMANDE. + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 9, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + At the time you honored me with your letter of May the 31st, I was not + returned from a journey I had taken into Italy. This circumstance, with + the mass of business which had accumulated during my absence, must + apologize for the delay of my answer. Every discovery, which multiplies + the subsistence of man, must be a matter of joy to every friend to + humanity. As such, I learn with great satisfaction, that you have found + the means of preserving flour more perfectly than has been done hitherto. + But I am not authorized to avail my country of it, by making any offer for + its communication. Their policy is to leave their citizens free, neither + restraining nor aiding them in their pursuits. Though the interposition of + government in matters of invention has its use, yet it is in practice so + inseparable from abuse, that they think it better not to meddle with it. + We are only to hope, therefore, that those governments, who are in the + habit of directing all the actions of their subjects by particular law, + may be so far sensible of the duty they are under of cultivating useful + discoveries, as to reward you amply for yours, which is among the most + interesting to humanity. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with great consideration and respect, Sir, your + most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0086" id="link2H_4_0086"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXXXIV.—TO PETER CARR, August 10, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO PETER CARR. + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 10, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Peter, + </p> + <p> + I have received your two letters of December the 30th and April the 18th, + and am very happy to find by them, as well as by letters from Mr. Wythe, + that you have been so fortunate as to attract his notice and good will: I + am sure you will find this to have been one of the most fortunate events + of your life, as I have ever been sensible it was of mine. I enclose you a + sketch of the sciences to which I would wish you to apply, in such order + as Mr. Wythe shall advise: I mention also the books in them worth your + reading, which submit to his correction. Many of these are among your + father’s books, which you should have brought to you. As I do not + recollect those of them not in his library, you must write to me for them, + making out a catalogue of such as you think you shall have occasion for in + eighteen months from the date of your letter, and consulting Mr. Wythe on + the subject. To this sketch I will add a few particular observations. + </p> + <p> + 1. Italian. I fear the learning this language will confound your French + and Spanish. Being all of them degenerated dialects of the Latin, they are + apt to mix in conversation. I have never seen a person speaking the three + languages, who did not mix them. It is a delightful language, but late + events having rendered the Spanish more useful, lay it aside to prosecute + that. + </p> + <p> + 2. Spanish. Bestow great attention on this, and endeavor to acquire an + accurate knowledge of it. Our future connections with Spain and Spanish + America, will render that language a valuable acquisition. The ancient + history of a great part of America, too, is written in that language. I + send you a dictionary. + </p> + <p> + 3. Moral Philosophy. I think it lost time to attend lectures on this + branch. He who made us would have been a pitiful bungler, if he had made + the rules of our moral conduct a matter of science. For one man of + science, there are thousands who are not. What would have become of them? + Man was destined for society. His morality, therefore, was to be formed to + this object. He was endowed with a sense of right and wrong, merely + relative to this. This sense is as much a part of his nature, as the sense + of hearing, seeing, feeling; it is the true foundation of morality, and + not the <a name="linkimage-0004" id="linkimage-0004"> + <!-- IMG --></a> <img src="images/greek2.jpg" height="24" width="86" + alt="Greek Phrase Page216 " /> truth, &c, as fanciful writers have + imagined. The moral sense, or conscience, is as much a part of man, as his + leg or arm. It is given to all human beings, in a stronger or weaker + degree, as force of members is given them in a greater or less degree. It + may be strengthened by exercise, as may any particular limb of the body. + This sense is submitted, indeed, in some degree, to the guidance of + reason; but it is a small stock which is required for this: even a less + one than what we call common sense. State a moral case to a ploughman and + a professor. The former will decide it as well, and often better than the + latter, because he has not been led astray by artificial rules. In this + branch, therefore, read good books, because they will encourage, as well + as direct your feelings. The writings of Sterne, particularly, form the + best course of morality that ever was written. Besides these, read the + books mentioned in the enclosed paper: and, above all things, lose no + occasion of exercising your dispositions to be grateful, to be generous, + to be charitable, to be humane, to be true, just, firm, orderly, + courageous, &c. Consider every act of this kind, as an exercise which + will strengthen your moral faculties, and increase your worth. + </p> + <p> + 4. Religion, Your reason is now mature enough to examine this object. In + the first place, divest yourself of all bias in favor of novelty and + singularity of opinion. Indulge them in any other subject rather than that + of religion. It is too important, and the consequences of error may be too + serious. On the other hand, shake off all the fears and servile + prejudices, under which weak minds are servilely crouched. Fix reason + firmly in her seat, and call to her tribunal every fact, every opinion. + Question with boldness even the existence of a God; because, if there be + one, he must more approve the homage of reason, than that of blindfolded + fear. You will naturally examine, first, the religion of your own country. + Read the Bible, then, as you would read Livy or Tacitus. The facts which + are within the ordinary course of nature, you will believe on the + authority of the writer, as you do those of the same kind in Livy and + Tacitus. The testimony of the writer weighs in their favor, in one scale, + and their not being against the laws of nature, does not weigh against + them. But those facts in the Bible, which contradict the laws of nature, + must be examined with more care, and under a variety of faces. Here you + must recur to the pretensions of the writer to inspiration from God. + Examine upon what evidence his pretensions are founded, and whether that + evidence is so strong, as that its falsehood would be more improbable than + a change of the laws of nature, in the case he relates. For example, in + the book of Joshua we are told the sun stood still several hours. Were we + to read that fact in Livy or Tacitus, we should class it with their + showers of blood, speaking of statues, beasts, &c. But it is said, + that the writer of that book was inspired. Examine, therefore, candidly, + what evidence there is of his having been inspired. The pretension is + entitled to your inquiry, because millions believe it. On the other hand, + you are astronomer enough to know, how contrary it is to the law of + nature, that a body revolving on its axis, as the earth does, should have + stopped, should not, by that sudden stoppage, have prostrated animals, + trees, buildings, and should after a certain time have resumed its + revolution, and that without a second general prostration. Is this arrest + of the earth’s motion, or the evidence which affirms it, most within the + law of probabilities? You will next read the New Testament. It is the + history of a personage called Jesus. Keep in your eye the opposite + pretensions, 1. of those who say he was begotten by God, born of a virgin, + suspended, and reversed the laws of nature at will, and ascended bodily + into heaven: and, 2. of those who say he was a man, of illegitimate birth, + of a benevolent heart, enthusiastic mind, who set out without pretensions + to divinity, ended in believing them, and was punished capitally for + sedition, by being gibbeted, according to the Roman law, which punished + the first commission of that offence by whipping, and the second by exile + or death <i>in furca</i>. See this law in the Digest, Lib. 48, tit. 19, § + 28. 3. and Lipsius, Lib. 2. <i>De Cruce</i>, cap. 2. These questions are + examined in the books I have mentioned, under the head of Religion, and + several others. They will assist you in your inquiries; but keep your + reason firmly on the watch in reading them all. Do not be frightened from + this inquiry by any fear of its consequences. If it ends in a belief that + there is no God, you will find incitements to virtue in the comfort and + pleasantness you feel in its exercise, and the love of others which it + will procure you. If you find reason to believe there is a God, a + consciousness that you are acting under his eye, and that he approves you, + will be a vast additional incitement: if that there be a future state, the + hope of a happy existence in that, increases the appetite to deserve it: + if that Jesus was also a God, you will be comforted by a belief of his aid + and love. In fine, I repeat, you must lay aside all prejudice on both + sides, and neither believe nor reject any thing, because any other person, + or description of persons, have rejected or believed it. Your own reason + is the only oracle given you by Heaven, and you are answerable not for the + rightness, but uprightness of the decision. I forgot to observe, when + speaking of the New Testament, that you should read all the histories of + Christ, as well of those whom a council of ecclesiastics have decided for + us to be Pseudo-evangelists, as those they named Evangelists. Because + these Pseudo-evangelists pretended to inspiration as much as the others, + and you are to judge their pretensions by your own reason, and not by the + reason of those ecclesiastics. Most of these are lost. There are some, + however, still extant, collected by Fabricius, which I will endeavor to + get and send you. + </p> + <p> + 5. Travelling. This makes men wiser, but less happy. When men of sober age + travel, they gather knowledge, which they may apply usefully for their + country; but they are subject ever after to recollections mixed with + regret; their affections are weakened by being extended over more objects; + and they learn new habits, which cannot be gratified when they return + home. Young men who travel are exposed to all these inconveniences in a + higher degree, to others still more serious, and do not acquire that + wisdom for which a previous foundation is requisite, by repeated and just + observations at home. The glare of pomp and pleasure is analogous to the + motion of the blood; it absorbs all their affection and attention; they + are torn from it as from the only good in this world, and return to their + home as to a place of exile and condemnation. Their eyes are for ever + turned back to the object they have lost, and its recollection poisons the + residue of their lives. Their first and most delicate passions are + hackneyed on unworthy objects here, and they carry home the dregs, + insufficient to make themselves or any body else happy. Add to this, that + a habit of idleness, an inability to apply themselves to business is + acquired, and renders them useless to themselves and their country. These + observations are founded in experience. There is no place where your + pursuit of knowledge will be so little obstructed by foreign objects, as + in your own country, nor any wherein the virtues of the heart will be less + exposed to be weakened. Be good, be learned, and be industrious, and you + will not want the aid of travelling, to render you precious to your + country, dear to your friends, happy within yourself. I repeat my advice, + to take a great deal of exercise, and on foot. Health is the first + requisite after morality. Write to me often, and be assured of the + interest I take in your success, as well as the warmth of those sentiments + of attachment with which I am, Dear Peter, your affectionate friend, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0087" id="link2H_4_0087"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXXXV.—TO DR. GILMER, August 11, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO DR. GILMER. + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 11, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Doctor, + </p> + <p> + Your letter of January the 9th, 1787, came safely to hand in the month of + June last. Unluckily you forgot to sign it, and your hand-writing is so + Protean, that one cannot be sure it is yours. To increase the causes of + incertitude, it was dated Pen-Park, a name which I only know, as the seat + of John Harmer. The hand-writing, too, being somewhat in his style, made + me ascribe it hastily to him, indorse it with his name, and let it lie in + my bundle to be answered at leisure. That moment of leisure arriving, I + sat down to answer it to John Harmer, and now, for the first time, + discover marks of its being yours, and particularly those expressions of + friendship to myself and family, which you have ever been so good as to + entertain, and which are to me among the most precious possessions. I wish + my sense of this, and my desires of seeing you rich and happy, may not + prevent my seeing any difficulty in the case you state of George Harmer’s + wills; which, as you state them, are thus. + </p> + <p> + 1. A will, dated December the 26th, 1779, written in his own hand, and + devising to his brother the estates he had received from him. + </p> + <p> + 2. Another will, dated June the 25th, 1782, written also in his own hand, + devising his estate to trustees, to be conveyed to such of his relations, + I. H., I. L., or H. L., as should become capable of acquiring property, + or, on failure of that, to be sold, and the money remitted them. + </p> + <p> + 3. A third will, dated September the 12th, 1786, devising all his estate + at Marrowbone, and his tracts at Horse-pasture and Poison-field to you; + which will is admitted to record, and of course has been duly executed. + </p> + <p> + You say the learned are divided on these wills. Yet I see no cause of + division, as it requires little learning to decide, that ‘the first deed + and last will must always prevail.’ I am afraid, therefore, the difficulty + may arise on the want of words of inheritance in the devise to you: for + you state it as a devise to ‘George Gilmer’ (without adding ‘and to his + heirs’) of ‘all the <i>estate</i> called Marrowbone,’ ‘the <i>tract</i> + called Horse-pasture,’ and ‘the tract called Poison-field.’ If the + question is on this point, and you have copied the words of the will + exactly, I suppose you take an estate in fee simple in Marrowbone, and for + life only in Horse-pasture and Poison-field; the want of words of + inheritance in the two last cases, being supplied as to the first, by the + word ‘estate,’ which has been repeatedly decided to be descriptive of the + quantum of interest devised, as well as of its locality. I am in hopes, + however, you have not copied the words exactly, that there are words of + inheritance to all the devises, as the testator certainly knew their + necessity, and that the conflict only will be between the different wills, + in which case, I see nothing which can be opposed to the last. I shall be + very happy to eat at Pen-park some of the good mutton and beef of + Marrowbone, Horse-pasture, and Poison-field, with yourself and Mrs. + Gilmer, and my good old neighbors. I am as happy no where else, and in no + other society, and all my wishes end, where I hope my days will end, at + Monticello. Too many scenes of happiness mingle themselves with all the + recollections of my native woods and fields, to suffer them to be + supplanted in my affection by any other. I consider myself here as a + traveller only, and not a resident. My commission expires next spring, and + if not renewed, I shall of course return then. If renewed, I shall remain + here some time longer. How much, I cannot say; yet my wishes shorten the + period. Among the strongest inducements, will be that of your society and + Mrs. Gilmer’s, which I am glad to find brought more within reach, by your + return to Pen-park. My daughters are importunate to return also. Patsy + enjoys good health, and is growing to my stature. Maria arrived here about + a month ago, after a favorable voyage, and in perfect health. My own + health has been as good as ever, after the first year’s probation. If you + knew how agreeable to me are the details of the small news of my + neighborhood, your charity would induce you to write frequently. Your + letters lodged in the post-office at Richmond (to be forwarded to New + York) come with certainty. We are doubtful yet, whether there will be war + or not. Present me with warm affection to Mrs. Gilmer, and be assured + yourself of the unvarying sentiments of esteem and attachment, with which + I am, Dear Doctor, your sincere friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0088" id="link2H_4_0088"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXXXVI.—TO JOSEPH JONES, August 14, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOSEPH JONES. + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 14, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have never yet thanked you, but with the heart, for the act of Assembly + confirming the agreement with Maryland, the pamphlet, and papers, I + received from you a twelvemonth ago. Very soon after their receipt, I got + my right wrist dislocated, which prevented me long from writing, and as + soon as that was able to bear it, I took a long journey, from which I am + but lately returned. I am anxious to hear what our federal convention + recommends, and what the States will do in consequence of their + recommendation. * * * * With all the defects of our constitution, whether + general or particular, the comparison of our governments with those of + Europe, is like a comparison of heaven and hell. England, like the earth, + may be allowed to take the intermediate station. And yet I hear there are + people among you, who think the experience of our governments has already + proved, that republican governments will not answer. Send those gentry + here, to count the blessings of monarchy. A king’s sister, for instance, + stopped in the road, and on a hostile journey, is sufficient cause for him + to march immediately twenty thousand men to revenge this insult, when he + had shown himself little moved by the matter of right then in question. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + From all these broils we are happily free, and that God may keep us long + so, and yourself in health and happiness, is the prayer of, + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, your most obedient + </p> + <p> + and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0089" id="link2H_4_0089"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXXXVII.—TO GENERAL WASHINGTON, August 14, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 14, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I was happy to find, by the letter of August the 1st, 1786, which you did + me the honor to write to me, that the modern dress for your statue, would + meet your approbation. I found it strongly the sentiment of West, Copely, + Trumbull, and Brown, in London; after which it would be ridiculous to add, + that it was my own. I think a modern in an antique dress, as just an + object of ridicule, as a Hercules or Marius with a periwig and chapeau + bras. + </p> + <p> + I remember having written to you, while Congress sat at Annapolis, on the + water communication between ours and the western country, and to have + mentioned, particularly, the information I had received of the plain face + of the country between the sources of Big-beaver and Cayohoga, which made + me hope that a canal, of no great expense, might unite the navigation of + Lake Erie and the Ohio. You must since have had occasion of getting better + information on this subject, and if you have, you would oblige me by a + communication of it. I consider this canal, if practicable, as a very + important work. + </p> + <p> + I remain in hopes of great and good effects from the decision of the + Assembly over which you are presiding. To make our States one as to all + foreign concerns, preserve them several as to all merely domestic, to give + to the federal head some peaceable mode of enforcing its just authority, + to organize that head into legislative, executive, and judiciary + departments, are great desiderata in our federal constitution. Yet with + all its defects, and with all those of our particular governments, the + inconveniences resulting from them are so light, in comparison with those + existing in every other government on earth, that our citizens may + certainly be considered as in the happiest political situation which + exists. + </p> + <p> + The <i>AssemblĂ©e des Notables</i> has been productive of much good in this + country. The reformation of some of the most oppressive laws has taken + place, and is taking place. The allotment of the State into subordinate + governments, the administration of which is committed to persons chosen by + the people, will work in time a very beneficial change in their + constitution. The expense of the trappings of monarchy, too, is + lightening. Many of the useless officers, high and low, of the King, + Queen, and Princes, are struck off. Notwithstanding all this, the + discovery of the abominable abuses of public money by the late Comptroller + General, some new expenses of the court, not of a piece with the projects + of reformation, and the imposition of new taxes, have, in the course of a + few weeks, raised a spirit of discontent in this nation, so great and so + general, as to threaten serious consequences. The parliaments in general, + and particularly that of Paris, put themselves at the head of this + effervescence, and direct its object to the calling the States General, + who have not been assembled since 1614. The object is to fix a + constitution, and to limit expenses. The King has been obliged to hold a + bed of justice, to enforce the registering the new taxes: the parliament, + on their side, propose to issue a prohibition against their execution. + Very possibly this may bring on their exile. The mild and patriotic + character of the new ministry is the principal dependence against this + extremity. + </p> + <p> + The turn which the affairs of Europe will take, is not yet decided. + </p> + <p> + A war, wherein France, Holland, and England should be parties, seems, <i>primâ + facie</i>, to promise much advantage to us. But, in the first place, no + war can be safe for us, which threatens France with an unfavorable issue. + And, in the next, it will probably embark us again into the ocean of + speculation, engage us to overtrade ourselves, convert us into sea-rovers, + under French and Dutch colors, divert us from agriculture, which is our + wisest pursuit, because it will in the end contribute most to real wealth, + good morals, and happiness. The wealth acquired by speculation and + plunder, is fugacious in its nature, and fills society with the spirit of + gambling. The moderate and sure income of husbandry begets permanent + improvement, quiet life, and orderly conduct, both public and private. We + have no occasion for more commerce than to take off our superfluous + produce, and the people complain that some restrictions prevent this; yet + the price of articles with us, in general, shows the contrary. Tobacco, + indeed, is low, not because we cannot carry it where we please, but + because we make more than the consumption requires. Upon the whole, I + think peace advantageous to us, necessary for Europe, and desirable for + humanity. A few days will decide, probably, whether all these + considerations are to give way to the bad passions of Kings, and those who + would be Kings. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with very sincere esteem and respect, Dear Sir, + your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + P. S. August 15. The parliament is exiled to Troyes this morning. T. J. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0090" id="link2H_4_0090"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXXXVIII.—TO COLONEL HUMPHREYS, August 14, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO COLONEL HUMPHREYS. + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 14, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I remember when you left us, it was with a promise to supply all the + defects of correspondence in our friends, of which we complained, and + which you had felt in common with us. Yet I have received but one letter + from you, which was dated June the 5th, 1786, and I answered it August the + 14th, 1786. Dropping that, however, and beginning a new account, I will + observe to you, that wonderful improvements are making here in various + lines. In architecture, the wall of circumvallation round Paris, and the + palaces by which we are to be let out and in, are nearly completed; four + hospitals are to be built instead of the old <i>hĂ´tel-dieu</i>; one of the + old bridges has all its houses demolished, and a second nearly so; a new + bridge is begun at the Place Louis XV.; the Palais Royal is gutted, a + considerable part in the centre of the garden being dug out, and a + subterranean circus begun, wherein will be equestrian exhibitions, &c. + In society, the <i>habit habille</i> is almost banished, and they begin to + go even to great suppers in frock: the court and diplomatic corps, + however, must always be excepted. They are too high to be reached by any + improvement. They are the last refuge from which etiquette, formality, and + folly will be driven. Take away these, and they would be on a level with + other people. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [After describing the unsettled state of Europe, as in some + of the preceding letters, the writer proceeds.] +</pre> + <p> + So much for the blessings of having Kings, and magistrates who would be + Kings. From these events our young republics may learn useful lessons, + never to call on foreign powers to settle their differences, to guard + against hereditary magistrates, to prevent their citizens from becoming so + established in wealth and power, as to be thought worthy of alliance by + marriage with the nieces, sisters, &c. of Kings, and, in short, to + besiege the throne of Heaven with eternal prayers, to extirpate from + creation this class of human lions, tigers, and mammoths, called Kings; + from whom, let him perish who does not say, ‘Good Lord, deliver us;’ and + that so we may say, one and all, or perish, is the fervent prayer of him + who has the honor to mix with it sincere wishes for your health and + happiness, and to be, with real attachment and respect, Dear Sir, your + affectionate friend and humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0091" id="link2H_4_0091"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER LXXXIX.—TO JOHN JAY, August 15, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 15, 1787. + </p> + <p> + An American gentleman leaving Paris this afternoon, to go by the way of + L’Orient to Boston, furnishes me the rare occasion of a conveyance, other + than the packet, sure and quick. My letter by the packet informed you of + the bed of justice, for enregistering the stamp tax and land tax. The + parliament, on their return came to an <i>ArrĂŞtĂ©e</i> (a resolution) + which, besides protesting against the enregistering, as done by force, + laid the foundation for an <i>ArrĂŞt de defence</i> (an act) against the + execution of the two new laws. The question on the final <i>ArrĂŞt</i> was + adjourned to the day before yesterday. It is believed they did not + conclude on this <i>ArrĂŞt</i>, as it has not appeared. However, there was + a concourse of about ten thousand people at the parliament house, who, on + their adjournment, received them with acclamations of joy, loosened the + horses of the most eminent speakers against the tax from their carriages, + and drew them home. This morning, the parliament is exiled to Troyes. It + is believed to proceed, principally, from the fear of a popular commotion + here. + </p> + <p> + The officer charged by this court, to watch the English squadron, which + was under sailing orders, returned about a week ago with information that + it had sailed, having shaped its course west-wardly. This is another step + towards war. It is the more suspicious, as their minister here denies the + fact. Count Adhemar is here from London, by leave from his court. The Duke + of Dorset, the British ambassador here, has lately gone to London on + leave. Neither of these ambassadors has the confidence of his court, on + the point of abilities. The latter merits it for his honesty. The minister + of the British court, resident here, remains; but Mr. Eden, their + ambassador to Spain, under pretence of taking this in his route, is in + truth their <i>fac-totum</i> in the present emergency. Nothing worth + noting has occurred since my last, either in the Dutch or Austrian + Netherlands. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with the most perfect esteem and respect, Sir, + your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0092" id="link2H_4_0092"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XC.—TO JOHN ADAMS, August 30, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN ADAMS. + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 30, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Since your favor of July the 10th, mine have been of July the 17th, 23rd, + and 28th. The last enclosed a bill of exchange from Mr. Grand, on Tessier, + for ÂŁ46. 17s. 10d. sterling, to answer General Sullivan’s bill for that + sum. I hope it got safe to hand, though I have been anxious about it, as + it went by post, and my letters through that channel sometimes miscarry. + </p> + <p> + From the separation of the <i>Notables</i> to the present moment, has been + perhaps the most interesting interval ever known in this country. The + propositions of the government, approved by the <i>Notables</i>, were + precious to the nation, and have been in an honest course of execution, + some of them being carried into effect, and others preparing. Above all, + the establishment of the Provincial Assemblies, some of which have begun + their sessions, bid fair to be the instrument for circumscribing the power + of the crown, and raising the people into consideration. The election + given to them, is what will do this. Though the minister, who proposed + these improvements, seems to have meant them as the price of the new + supplies, the game has been so played, as to secure the improvements to + the nation, without securing the price. The <i>Notables</i> spoke softly + on the subject of the additional supplies. But the parliament took them up + roundly, refused to register the edicts for the new taxes, till compelled + in a bed of justice, and suffered themselves to be transferred to Troyes, + rather than withdraw their opposition. It is urged principally against the + King, that his revenue is one hundred and thirty millions more than that + of his predecessor was, and yet he demands one hundred and twenty millions + further. You will see this well explained in the ‘<i>Conference entre un + Ministre d’etat et un Conseiller au parliament,</i>’ which I send you with + some small pamphlets. In the mean time, all tongues in Paris (and in + France as it is said) have been let loose, and never was a license of + speaking against the government, exercised in London more freely or more + universally. Caricatures, placards, <i>bons-mots</i>, have been indulged + in by all ranks of people, and I know of no well attested instance of a + single punishment. For some time, mobs of ten, twenty, and thirty thousand + people collected daily, surrounded the Parliament house, huzzaed the + members, even entered the doors and examined into their conduct, took the + horses out of the carriages of those who did well, and drew them home. The + government thought it prudent to prevent these, drew some regiments into + the neighborhood, multiplied the guards, had the streets constantly + patrolled by strong parties, suspended privileged places, forbade all + clubs, &c. The mobs have ceased: perhaps this may be partly owing to + the absence of Parliament. The Count d’Artois, sent to hold a bed of + justice in the <i>Cour des Aides</i>, was hissed and hooted without + reserve, by the populace; the carriage of Madame de (I forget the name), + in the Queen’s livery, was stopped by the populace, under a belief that it + was Madame de Polignac, whom they would have insulted; the Queen, going to + the theatre at Versailles with Madame de Polignac, was received with a + general hiss. The King, long in the habit of drowning his cares in wine, + plunges deeper and deeper. The Queen cries, but sins on. The Count + d’Artois is detested, and Monsieur, the general favorite. The Archbishop + of Toulouse is made minister principal, a virtuous, patriotic, and able + character. The Marechal de Castries retired yesterday, notwithstanding + strong solicitations to remain in office. The Marechal de Segur retired at + the same time, prompted to it by the court. Their successors are not yet + known. Monsieur de St. Priest goes ambassador to Holland, in the room of + Verac, transferred to Switzerland, and the Count de Moustier goes to + America, in the room of the Chevalier de la Luzerne, who has a promise of + the first vacancy. These nominations are not yet made formally, but they + are decided on, and the parties are ordered to prepare for their + destination. + </p> + <p> + As it has been long since I have had a confidential conveyance to you, I + have brought together the principal facts from the adjournment of the + Notables, to the present moment, which, as you will perceive from their + nature, required a confidential conveyance. I have done it the rather, + because, though you will have heard many of them, and seen them in the + public papers, yet, floating in the mass of lies which constitute the + atmosphere of London and Paris, you may not have been sure of their truth; + and I have mentioned every truth of any consequence, to enable you to + stamp as false, the facts pretermitted. I think that in the course of + three months, the royal authority has lost, and the rights of the nation + gained, as much ground by a revolution of public opinion only, as England + gained in all her civil wars under the Stuarts. I rather believe, too, + they will retain the ground gained, because it is defended by the young + and the middle-aged, in opposition to the old only. The first party + increases, and the latter diminishes daily, from the course of nature. You + may suppose, that in this situation, war would be unwelcome to France. She + will surely avoid it, if not forced into it by the courts of London and + Berlin. If forced, it is probable she will change the system of Europe + totally, by an alliance with the two empires, to whom nothing would be + more desirable. In the event of such a coalition, not only Prussia, but + the whole European world must receive from them their laws. But France + will probably endeavor to preserve the present system, if it can be done, + by sacrificing, to a certain degree, the pretensions of the patriotic + party in Holland. But of all these matters, you can judge, in your + position, where less secrecy is observed, better than I can. + </p> + <p> + I have news from America as late as July the 19th. Nothing had transpired + from the federal convention. I am sorry they began their deliberations by + so abominable a precedent, as that of tying up the tongues of their + members. Nothing can justify this example, but the innocence of their + intentions, and ignorance of the value of public discussions. I have no + doubt that all their other measures will be good and wise. It is really an + assembly of demigods. General Washington was of opinion, that they should + not separate till October. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with every sentiment of friendship and respect, + Dear Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0093" id="link2H_4_0093"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XCI.—TO MR. WYTHE, September 16,1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO MR. WYTHE. + </p> + <p> + Paris, September 16,1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I am now to acknowledge the receipt of your favors of December the 13th + and 22nd, 1786, and of January, 1787. These should not have been so long + unanswered, but that they arrived during my absence on a journey of + between three and four months, through the southern parts of France and + northern of Italy. In the latter country, my time allowed me to go no + further than Turin, Milan, and Genoa: consequently, I scarcely got into + classical ground. I took with me some of the writings, in which endeavors + have been made to investigate the passage of Annibal over the Alps, and + was just able to satisfy myself, from a view of the country, that the + descriptions given of his march are not sufficiently particular, to enable + us, at this day, even to guess at his track across the Alps. In + architecture, painting, sculpture, I found much amusement: but more than + all, in their agriculture, many objects of which might be adopted with us + to great advantage. I am persuaded, there are many parts of our lower + country where the olive tree might be raised, which is assuredly the + richest gift of Heaven. I can scarcely except bread. I see this tree + supporting thousands among the Alps, where there is not soil enough to + make bread for a single family. The caper, too, might be cultivated with + us. The fig we do raise. I do not speak of the vine, because it is the + parent of misery. Those who cultivate it are always poor, and he who would + employ himself with us in the culture of corn, cotton, &c. can + procure, in exchange for them, much more wine, and better, than he could + raise by its direct culture. + </p> + <p> + I sent you formerly copies of the documents on the Tagliaferro family, + which I had received from Mr. Febroni. I now send the originals. I have + procured for you a copy of Polybius, the best edition; but the best + edition of Vitruvius which is with the commentaries of Ficinus, is not to + be got here. I have sent to Holland for it. In the mean time, the Polybius + comes in a box containing books for Peter Carr, and for some of my friends + in Williamsburg and its vicinities. I have taken the liberty of addressing + the box to you. It goes to New York in the packet-boat which carries this + letter, and will be forwarded to you by water, by Mr. Madison. Its freight + to New York is paid here. The transportation from thence to Williamsburg, + will be demanded of you, and shall stand as the equivalent to the cost of + Polybius and Vitruvius, if you please. The difference either way, will not + be worth the trouble of raising and transmitting accounts. I send you + herewith a state of the contents of the box, and for whom each article is. + Among these are some, as you will perceive, of which I ask your + acceptance. It is a great comfort to me, that while here, I am able to + furnish some amusement to my friends, by sending them such productions of + genius, ancient and modern, as might otherwise escape them; and I hope + they will permit me to avail myself of the occasion, while it lasts. + </p> + <p> + This world is going all to war. I hope ours will remain clear of it. It is + already declared between the Turks and Russians, and considering the + present situation of Holland, it cannot fail to spread itself all over + Europe. Perhaps it may not be till next spring, that the other powers will + be engaged in it: nor is it as yet clear, how they will arrange + themselves. I think it not impossible, that France and the two empires may + join against all the rest. The Patriotic party in Holland will be saved by + this, and the Turks sacrificed. The only thing which can prevent the union + of France and the two empires, is the difficulty of agreeing about the + partition of the spoils. Constantinople is the key of Asia. Who shall have + it, is the question. I cannot help looking forward to the re-establishment + of the Greeks as a people, and the language of Homer becoming again a + living language, as among possible events. You have now with you Mr. + Paradise, who can tell you how easily the modern may be improved into the + ancient Greek. + </p> + <p> + You ask me in your letter, what ameliorations I think necessary in our + federal constitution. It is now too late to answer the question, and it + would always have been presumption in me to have done it. Your own ideas, + and those of the great characters who were to be concerned with you in + these discussions, will give the law, as they ought to do, to us all. My + own general idea was, that the States should severally preserve their + sovereignty in whatever concerns themselves alone, and that whatever may + concern another State, or any foreign nation, should be made a part of the + federal sovereignty: that the exercise of the federal sovereignty should + be divided among three several bodies, legislative, executive, and + judiciary, as the State sovereignties are: and that some peaceable means + should be contrived, for the federal head to force compliance on the part + of the States. I have reflected on your idea of wooden or ivory diagrams, + for the geometrical demonstrations. I should think wood as good as ivory; + and that in this case, it might add to the improvement of the young + gentlemen, that they should make the figures themselves. Being furnished + by a workman with a piece of vineer, no other tool than a penknife and a + wooden rule would be necessary. Perhaps pasteboards, or common cards, + might be still more convenient. The difficulty is, how to reconcile + figures which must have a very sensible breadth, to our ideas of a + mathematical line, which, as it has neither breadth nor thickness, will + revolt more at these, than at simple lines drawn on paper or slate. If, + after reflecting on this proposition, you would prefer having them made + here, lay your commands on me, and they shall be executed. + </p> + <p> + I return you a thousand thanks for your goodness to my nephew. After my + debt to you for whatever I am myself, it is increasing it too much, to + interest yourself for his future fortune. But I know that to you, a + consciousness of doing good is a luxury ineffable. You have enjoyed it + already, beyond all human measure, and that you may long live to enjoy it, + and to bless your country and friends, is the sincere prayer of him, who + is, with every possible sentiment of esteem and respect, Dear Sir, your + most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0094" id="link2H_4_0094"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XCII.—TO JOHN JAY, September 19, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + Paris, September 19, 1787. + </p> + <p> + My last letters to you were of the 6th and 15th of August; since which, I + have been honored with yours of July the 24th, acknowledging the receipt + of mine of the 14th and 23d of February. I am anxious to hear you have + received that also of May the 4th, written from Marseilles. According to + the desires of Congress, expressed in their vote confirming the + appointments of Francisco Giuseppa and Girolamo Chiappi, their agents in + Morocco, I have written letters to these gentlemen, to begin a + correspondence with them. To the first, I have enclosed the ratification + of the treaty with the Emperor of Morocco, and shall send it either by our + agent at Marseilles, who is now here, or by the Count Daranda, who sets + out for Madrid in a few days, having relinquished his embassy here. I + shall proceed on the redemption of our captives at Algiers, as soon as the + commissioners of the treasury shall enable me, by placing the money + necessary under my orders. The prisoners redeemed by the religious order + of Mathurins, cost about four hundred dollars each, and the General of the + order told me, that they had never been able to redeem foreigners on so + good terms as their own countrymen. Supposing that their redemption, + clothing, feeding, and transportation should amount to five hundred + dollars each, there must be, at least, a sum of ten thousand dollars set + apart for this purpose. Till this is done, I shall take no other step than + the preparatory one, of destroying at Algiers all idea of our intending to + redeem the prisoners. This, the General of the Mathurins told me, was + indispensably necessary, and that it must not, on any account, transpire, + that the public would interest themselves for their redemption. This was + rendered the more necessary, by the declaration of the Dey to the Spanish + consul, that he should hold him responsible, at the Spanish price, for our + prisoners, even for such as should die. Three of them have died of the + plague. By authorizing me to redeem at the prices usually paid by the + European nations, Congress, I suppose, could not mean the Spanish price, + which is not only unusual but unprecedented, and would make our vessels + the first object with those pirates. I shall pay no attention, therefore, + to the Spanish price, unless further instructed. Hard as it may seem, I + should think it necessary, not to let it be known even to the relations of + the captives, that we mean to redeem them. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to inclose you a paper from the admiralty of Guadaloupe, + sent to me as a matter of form, and to be lodged, I suppose, with our + marine records. I enclose, also, a copy of a letter from the Count de + Florida Blanca to Mr. Carmichael, by which you will perceive, they have + referred the settlement of the claim of South Carolina for the use of + their frigate, to Mr. Gardoqui, and to the Delegates of South Carolina in + Congress. + </p> + <p> + I had the honor to inform you in my last letter, of the parliament’s being + transferred to Troyes. To put an end to the tumults in Paris, some + regiments were brought nearer, the patroles were strengthened and + multiplied, some mutineers punished by imprisonment: it produced the + desired effect. It is confidently believed, however, that the parliament + will be immediately recalled, the stamp tax and land tax repealed, and + other means devised of accommodating their receipts and expenditures. + Those supposed to be in contemplation, are, a rigorous levy of the old tax + of the <i>deux vingtiemes</i>, on the rich, who had, in a great measure, + withdrawn their property from it, as well as on the poor, on whom it had + principally fallen. This will greatly increase the receipts: while they + are proceeding on the other hand, to reform their expenses far beyond what + they had promised. It is said these reformations will amount to eighty + millions. Circumstances render these measures more and more pressing. I + mentioned to you in my last letter, that the officer charged by the + ministry to watch the motion of the British squadron, had returned with + information that it had sailed westwardly. The fact was not true. He had + formed his conclusion too hastily, and thus led the ministry into error. + The King of Prussia, urged on by England, has pressed more and more the + affairs of Holland and lately has given to the States General of Holland + four days only to comply with his demand. This measure would, of itself, + have rendered it impossible for France to proceed longer in the line of + accommodation with Prussia. In the same moment, an event takes place, + which seems to render all attempt at accommodation idle. The Turks have + declared war against the Russians, and that under circumstances which + exclude all prospect of preventing its taking place. The King of Prussia + having deserted his ancient friends, there remain only France and Turkey, + perhaps Spain also, to oppose the two empires, Prussia and England. By + such a piece of Quixotism, France might plunge herself into ruin with the + Turks and Dutch, but would save neither. But there is certainly a + confederacy secretly in contemplation, of which the public have not yet + the smallest suspicion; that is between France and the two empires. I + think it sure that Russia has desired this, and that the Emperor, after + some hesitation, has acceded. It rests on this country to close. Her + indignation against the King of Prussia will be some spur. She will + thereby save her party in Holland, and only abandon the Turks to that fate + she cannot ward off, and which their precipitation has brought on + themselves, by the instigation of the English ambassador at the Porte, and + against the remonstrances of the French ambassador. Perhaps this + formidable combination, should it take place, may prevent the war of the + western powers, as it would seem that neither England nor Prussia would + carry their false calculations so far, as, with the aid of the Turks only, + to oppose themselves to such a force. In that case, the Patriots of + Holland would be peaceably established in the powers of their government, + and the war go on against the Turks only, who would probably be driven + from Europe. This new arrangement would be a total change of the European + system, and a favorable one for our friends. The probability of a general + war, in which this country would be engaged on one side, and England on + the other, has appeared to me sufficient to justify my writing to our + agents in the different ports of France, to put our merchants on their + guard, against risking their property in French or English bottoms. The + Emperor, instead of treading back his steps in Brabant, as was expected, + has pursued the less honorable plan of decoying his subjects thence by + false pretences, to let themselves be invested by his troops, and this + done, he dictates to them his own terms. Yet it is not certain the matter + will end with that. + </p> + <p> + The Count De Moustier is nominated Minister Plenipotentiary to America; + and a frigate is ordered to Cherbourg, to carry him over. He will endeavor + to sail by the middle of the next month, but if any delay should make him + pass over the whole of October, he will defer his voyage to the spring, + being unwilling to undertake a winter passage. Monsieur de St. Priest is + sent ambassador to Holland, in the room of Monsieur de Verac, appointed to + Switzerland. The Chevalier de Luzerne might, I believe,have gone to + Holland, but he preferred a general promise of promotion, and the + possibility that it might be to the court of London. His prospects are + very fair. His brother, the Count de la Luzerne, (now Governor in the West + Indies) is appointed minister of the marine, in the place of Monsieur de + Castries, who has resigned. The Archbishop of Toulouse is appointed + ministre principal, and his brother Monsieur de Brienne, minister of war, + in the place of Monsieur de Segur. The department of the Comptroller has + had a very rapid succession of tenants. From Monsieur de Calonne it passed + to Monsieur de Forqueux, from him to Villedeuil, and from him to Lambert, + who holds it at present, but divided with a Monsieur Cabarrus (whom I + believe you knew in Spain), who is named <i>Directeur du tresor royal</i>, + the office into which M. Necker came at first. I had the honor to inform + you, that before the departure of the Count de Luzerne to his government + in the West Indies, I had pressed on him the patronage of our trade with + the French islands; that he appeared well disposed, and assured me he + would favor us as much as his instructions, and the laws of the colonies, + would permit. I am in hopes, these dispositions will be strengthened by + his residence in the islands, and that his acquaintance among the people + there will be an additional motive to favor them. Probably they will take + advantage of his appointment, to press indulgences in commerce with us. + The ministry is of a liberal complexion, and well disposed to us. The war + may add to the motives for opening their islands to other resources for + their subsistence, and for doing what may be agreeable to us. It seems to + me at present, then, that the moment of the arrival of the Count de la + Luzerne will be the moment for trying to obtain a freer access to their + islands. It would be very material to do this, if possible, in a permanent + way, that is to say, by treaty. But I know of nothing we have to offer in + equivalent. Perhaps the payment of our debt to them might be made use of + as some inducement, while they are so distressed for money. Yet the + borrowing the money in Holland will be rendered more difficult by the same + event, in proportion as it will increase the demand for money by other + powers. + </p> + <p> + The gazettes of Ley den and France, to this date, are enclosed, together + with some pamphlets on the internal affairs of this country. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect esteem and + respect, Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0095" id="link2H_4_0095"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XCIII.—TO CHARLES THOMSON, September 20, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO CHARLES THOMSON. + </p> + <p> + Paris, September 20, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Your favor of April the 28th did not come to my hands till the 1st + instant. Unfortunately, the boxes of plants, which were a day too late to + come by the April packet, missed the packet of June the 10th also, and + only came by that of July the 25th. They are not yet arrived at Paris, but + I expect them daily. I am sensible of your kind attention to them, and + that as you were leaving New York, you took the course which bade fair to + be the best. That they were forgotten in the hands in which you placed + them, was probably owing to much business, and more important. I have + desired Mr. Madison to refund to you the money, you were so kind as to + advance for me. The delay of your letter will apologize for this delay of + the repayment. I thank you also, for the extract of the letter you were so + kind as to communicate to me, on the antiquities found in the western + country. I wish that the persons who go thither, would make very exact + descriptions of what they see of that kind, without forming any theories. + The moment a person forms a theory, his imagination sees in every object, + only the traits which favor that theory. But it is too early to form + theories on those antiquities. We must wait with patience till more facts + are collected. I wish your Philosophical Society would collect exact + descriptions of the several monuments as yet known, and insert them naked + in their Transactions, and continue their attention to those hereafter to + be discovered. Patience and observation may enable us, in time, to solve + the problem, whether those who formed the scattering monuments in our + western country, were colonies sent off from Mexico or the founders of + Mexico itself; whether both were the descendants or the progenitors of the + Asiatic red men. The Mexican tradition, mentioned by Dr. Robertson, is an + evidence, but a feeble one, in favor of the one opinion. The number of + languages radically different, is a strong evidence in favor of the + contrary one. There is an American by the name of Ledyard, he who was with + Captain Cook on his last voyage, and wrote an account of that voyage, who + has gone to St. Petersburg; from thence he was to go to Kamtschatka; to + cross over thence to the northwest coast of America, and to penetrate + through the main continent, to our side of it. He is a person of ingenuity + and information. Unfortunately, he has too much imagination. However, if + he escapes safely, he will give us new, curious, and useful information. I + had a letter from him, dated last March, when he was about to leave St. + Petersburg on his way to Kamtschatka. + </p> + <p> + With respect to the inclination of the strata of rocks, I had observed + them between the Blue Ridge and North Mountains in Virginia, to be + parallel with the pole of the earth. I observed the same thing in most + instances in the Alps, between Cette and Turin: but in returning along the + precipices of the Apennines, where they hang over the Mediterranean, their + direction was totally different and various: and you mention, that in our + western country, they are horizontal. This variety proves they have not + been formed by subsidence, as some writers of theories of the earth have + pretended; for then they should always have been in circular strata, and + concentric. It proves, too, that they have not been formed by the rotation + of the earth on its axis, as might have been suspected, had all these + strata been parallel with that axis. They may, indeed, have been thrown up + by explosions, as Whitehurst supposes, or have been the effect of + convulsions. But there can be no proof of the explosion, nor is it + probable that convulsions have deformed every spot of the earth. It is now + generally agreed that rock grows, and it seems that it grows in layers in + every direction, as the branches of trees grow in all directions. Why seek + further the solution of this phenomenon? Every thing in nature decays. If + it were not reproduced then by growth, there would be a chasm. + </p> + <p> + I remember you asked me in a former letter, whether the steam-mill in + London was turned by the steam immediately, or by the intermediate agency + of water raised by the steam. When I was in London, Boulton made a secret + of his mill. Therefore, I was permitted to see it only superficially. I + saw no water-wheels, and therefore supposed none. I answered you, + accordingly, that there were none. But when I was at Nismes, I went to see + the steam-mill there, and they showed it to me in all its parts. I saw + that their steam raised water, and that this water turned a wheel. I + expressed my doubts of the necessity of the inter-agency of water, and + that the London mill was without it. But they supposed me mistaken; + perhaps I was so: I have had no opportunity since of clearing up the + doubt. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + I had a letter from Mr. Churchman, but not developing his plan of knowing + the longitude, fully. I wrote him what was doubted about it, so far as we + could conjecture what it was. + </p> + <p> + I am with very great and sincere esteem, Dear Sir, your friend and + servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0096" id="link2H_4_0096"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XCIV.—TO JOHN JAY, September 22,1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, September 22,1787. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + The letters of which the inclosed are copies, are this moment received, + and as there is a possibility that they may reach Havre before the packet + sails, I have the honor of enclosing them to you. They contain a promise + of reducing the duties on tar, pitch, and turpentine, and that the + government will interest itself with the city of Rouen, to reduce the + local duty on potash. By this you will perceive, that we are getting on a + little in this business, though under their present embarrassments, it is + difficult to procure the attention of the ministers to it. The parliament + has enregistered the edict for a rigorous levy of the <i>deux vingtièmes</i>. + As this was proposed by the King in lieu of the <i>impĂ´t territorial</i>, + there is no doubt now, that the latter, with the stamp tax, will be + immediately repealed. There can be no better proof of the revolution in + the public opinion, as to the powers of the monarch, and of the force, + too, of that opinion. Six weeks ago, we saw the King displaying the + plenitude of his omnipotence, as hitherto conceived, to enforce these two + acts. At this day, he is forced to retract them by the public voice; for + as to the opposition of the parliamemt, that body is too little esteemed + to produce this effect in any case, where the public do not throw + themselves into the same scale. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with the most perfect esteem and respect, Sir, + your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0097" id="link2H_4_0097"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XCV.—TO JOHN JAY, September 22, 1787 + </h2> + <h3> + TO JOHN JAY. + </h3> + <p> + Paris, September 22, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + When I had the honor of addressing you this morning, intelligence was + handing about, which I did not think well enough authenticated to + communicate to you. As it is now ascertained, I avail myself of the chance + that another post may yet reach Havre, before the departure of the packet. + This will depend on the wind, which has for some days been unfavorable. I + must premise that this court, about ten days ago, declared, by their <i>ChargĂ© + des Affaires</i> in Holland, that if the Prussian troops continued to + menace Holland with an invasion, his Majesty was determined, in quality of + ally, to succor that province. An official letter from the Hague, of the + 18th instant, assures that the Prussian army entered the territory of + Holland on the 15th, that most of the principal towns had submitted, some + after firing a gun or two, others without resistance: that the Rhingrave + de Salm had evacuated Utrecht, with part of the troops under his command, + leaving behind him one hundred and forty-four pieces of cannon, with great + warlike stores: that the standard of Orange was hoisted every where: that + no other cockade could be worn at the Hague: that the States General were + to assemble that night for reinstating the Stadtholder in all his rights. + The letter concludes, ‘We have this moment intelligence that Woerden has + capitulated; so that Amsterdam remains without defence.’ So far the + letter. We know, otherwise, that Monsieur de St. Priest, who had set out + on his embassy to the Hague, has stopped at Antwerp, not choosing to + proceed further till new orders. This Court has been completely deceived, + first by its own great desire to avoid a war, and secondly by calculating + that the King of Prussia would have acted on principles of common sense, + which would surely have dictated, that a power, lying between the jaws of + Russia and Austria, should not separate itself from France, unless, + indeed, he had assurances of dispositions in those two powers, which are + not supposed to exist. On the contrary, I am persuaded that they ask the + alliance of France, whom we suppose to be under hesitations between her + reluctance to abandon the Turks, her jealousy of increasing by their + spoils the power of the two empires, and her inability to oppose them. If + they cannot obtain her alliance, they will surely join themselves to + England and Prussia. + </p> + <p> + Official advices are received, that the first division of the Russian army + has passed the Borysthenes into the Polish Ukraine, and is marching + towards the frontiers of Turkey. Thus, we may consider the flames of war + as completely kindled in two distinct parts of this quarter of the globe, + and that though France and England have not yet engaged themselves in it, + the probabilities are that they will do it. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with the most perfect esteem and respect, Sir, + your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0098" id="link2H_4_0098"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XCVI.—TO MR. CARNES, September 22, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO MR. CARNES. + </p> + <p> + Paris, September 22, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I am honored by your favor of the 17th instant. A war between France and + England does not necessarily engage America in it; and I think she will be + disposed rather to avail herself of the advantages of a neutral power. By + the former usage of nations, the goods of a friend were safe, though taken + in an enemy bottom, and those of an enemy were lawful prize, though found + in a free bottom. But in our treaties with France, &c. we have + established the simpler rule, that a free bottom makes free goods, and an + enemy bottom, enemy goods. The same rule has been adopted by the treaty of + armed neutrality between Russia, Sweden, Denmark, Holland, and Portugal, + and assented to by France and Spain. Contraband goods, however, are always + excepted, so that they may still be seized; but the same powers have + established that naval stores are not contraband: and this may be + considered now as the law of nations. Though England acquiesced under this + during the late war, rather than draw on herself the neutral powers, yet + she never acceded to the new principle, and her obstinacy on this point is + what has prevented the late renewal of her treaty with Russia. On the + commencement of a new war, this principle will probably be insisted on by + the neutral powers, whom we may suppose to be Sweden, Denmark, Portugal, + America, and perhaps Spain. <i>Quere</i>; if England will again acquiesce. + Supposing these details might be useful to you, I have taken the liberty + of giving them, and of assuring you of the esteem with which I am, Sir, + your very humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0099" id="link2H_4_0099"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XCVII.—TO JOHN JAY, September 24, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, September 24, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + The times are now so critical, that every day brings something new and + important, not known the day before. Observing the wind still unfavorable, + I am in hopes the packet may not sail to-morrow, and that this letter may + be at Havre in time for that conveyance. Mr. Eden has waited on Count + Montmorin to inform him, officially, that England must consider its + convention with France, relative to the giving notice of its naval + armaments, as at an end, and that they are arming generally. This is + considered here as a declaration of war. The Dutch ambassador told me + yesterday, that he supposed the Prussian troops probably in possession of + the Hague. I asked him if it would interrupt the course of business, + commercial or banking, in Amsterdam; and particularly, whether our depot + of money there was safe. He said, the people of Amsterdam would be surely + so wise as to submit, when they should see that they could not oppose the + Stadtholder: therefore he supposed our depot safe, and that there would be + no interruption of business. It is the hour of the departure of the post: + so I have only time to add assurances of the respect and esteem, with + which I have the honor to be, Sir, your most obedient, humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0100" id="link2H_4_0100"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XCVIII,—TO JOHN ADAMS, September 28, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN ADAMS. + </p> + <p> + Paris, September 28, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I received your favor by Mr. Cutting, and thank you sincerely for the copy + of your book. The departure of a packet-boat, which always gives me full + employment for some time before, has only permitted me to look into it a + little. I judge of it from the first volume, which I thought formed to do + a great deal of good. The first principle of a good government, is + certainly a distribution of its powers into executive, judiciary, and + legislative, and a subdivision of the latter into two or three branches. + It is a good step gained, when it is proved that the English constitution, + acknowledged to be better than all which have preceded it, is only better, + in proportion as it has approached nearer to this distribution of powers. + From this, the last step is easy, to show by a comparison of our + constitutions with that of England, how much more perfect they are. The + article of Confederations is certainly worthy of your pen. It would form a + most interesting addition, to show, what has been the nature of the + Confederations which have existed hitherto, what were their excellencies, + and what their defects. + </p> + <p> + A comparison of ours with them would be to the advantage of ours, and + would increase the veneration of our countrymen for it. It is a + misfortune, that they do not sufficiently know the value of their + constitutions, and how much happier they are rendered by them, than any + other people on earth, by the governments under which they live. + </p> + <p> + You know all that has happened in the United Netherlands. You know also + that our friends, Van Staphorsts, will be among the most likely to become + objects of severity, if any severities should be exercised. Is the money + in their hands entirely safe? If it is not, I am sure you have already + thought of it. Are we to suppose the game already up, and that the + Stadtholder is to be reestablished, perhaps erected into a monarch, + without the country lifting a finger in opposition to it? If so, it is a + lesson the more for us. In fact, what a crowd of lessons do the present + miseries of Holland teach us? Never to have an hereditary officer of any + sort: never to let a citizen ally himself with kings: never to call in + foreign nations to settle domestic differences: never to suppose that any + nation will expose itself to war for us, &c. Still I am not without + hopes, that a good rod is in soak for Prussia, and that England will feel + the end of it. It is known to some, that Russia made propositions to the + Emperor and France, for acting in concert; that the Emperor consents, and + has disposed four camps of one hundred and eighty thousand men, from the + limits of Turkey to those of Prussia. This court hesitates, or rather its + Premier hesitates; for the Queen, Montmorin, and Breteuil are for the + measure. Should it take place, all may yet come to rights, except for the + Turks, who must retire from Europe, and this they must do, were France + Quixotic enough to undertake to support them. We, I hope, shall be left + free to avail ourselves of the advantages of neutrality: and yet, much I + fear, the English, or rather their stupid King, will force us out of it. + For thus I reason. By forcing us into the war against them, they will be + engaged in an expensive land war, as well as a sea war. Common sense + dictates, therefore, that they should let us remain neuter: ergo, they + will not let us remain neuter. I never yet found any other general rule + for foretelling what they will do, but that of examining what they ought + not to do. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with my best respects to Mrs. Adams, and + sentiments of perfect esteem and regard to yourself, Sir, your most + obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0101" id="link2H_4_0101"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER XCIX.—TO COLONEL SMITH, September 28,1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO COLONEL SMITH. + </p> + <p> + Paris, September 28,1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have duly received your favor by Mr. Cutting. I had before had a + transient acquaintance with him, and knew him to be sensible. Your + recommendation is always a new merit. I really think, and had taken the + liberty some time ago of hinting to Congress, that they would do well to + have a diplomatic character at Lisbon. There is no country whose commerce + is more interesting to us. I wish Congress would correspond to the wishes + of that court, in sending a person there, and to mine, in sending + yourself. For I confess, I had rather see you there than at London, + because I doubt whether it be honorable for us to keep any body at London, + unless they keep some person at New York. Of all nations on earth, they + require to be treated with the most hauteur. They require to be kicked + into common good manners. You ask, if you shall say any thing to Sullivan + about the bill. No. Only that it is paid. I have, within these two or + three days, received letters from him explaining the matter. It was really + for the skin and bones of the moose, as I had conjectured. It was my + fault, that I had not given him a rough idea of the expense I would be + willing to incur for them. He had made the acquisition an object of a + regular campaign, and that too of a winter one. The troops he employed + sallied forth, as he writes me, in the month of March—much snow—a + herd attacked—one killed—in the wilderness—a road to cut + twenty miles—to be drawn by hand from the frontiers to his house—bones + to be cleaned, &c. &c. &c. In fine, he put himself to an + infinitude of trouble, more than I meant: he did it cheerfully, and I feel + myself really under obligations to him. That the tragedy might not want a + proper catastrophe, the box, bones, and all are lost: so that this chapter + of Natural History will still remain a blank. But I have written to him + not to send me another. I will leave it for my successor to fill up, + whenever I shall make my bow here. The purchase for Mrs. Adams shall be + made, and sent by Mr. Cutting. I shall always be happy to receive her + commands. Petit shall be made happy by her praises of his last purchase + for her. I must refer you to Mr. Adams for the news. Those respecting the + Dutch you know as well as I. Nor should they be written but with the pen + of Jeremiah. Adieu, mon ami! Yours affectionately, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0102" id="link2H_4_0102"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER C.—TO MONSIEUR LE COMTE DE BUFFON, October 3, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO MONSIEUR LE COMTE DE BUFFON. + </p> + <p> + Paris, October 3, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I had the honor of informing you, some time ago, that I had written to + some of my friends in America, desiring they would send me such of the + spoils of the moose, caribou, elk, and deer, as might throw light on that + class of animals; but more particularly, to send me the complete skeleton, + skin, and horns of the moose, in such condition as that the skin might be + sewed up and stuffed, on its arrival here. I am happy to be able to + present to you at this moment, the bones and skin of a moose, the horns of + another individual of the same species, the horns of the caribou, the elk, + the deer, the spiked-horned buck, and the roebuck of America. They all + come from New Hampshire and Massachusetts, and were received by me + yesterday. I give you their popular names, as it rests with yourself to + decide their real names. The skin of the moose was dressed with the hair + on, but a great deal of it has come off, and the rest is ready to drop + off. The horns of the elk are remarkably small. I have certainly seen some + of them, which would have weighed five or six times as much. This is the + animal which we call elk in the southern parts of America, and of which I + have given some description in the Notes on Virginia, of which I had the + honor of presenting you a copy. I really doubt, whether the flat-horned + elk exists in America: and I think this may be properly classed with the + elk, the principal difference being in the horns. I have seen the <i>daim</i>, + the <i>cerf</i>, the <i>chevreuil</i>, of Europe. But the animal we call + elk, and which may be distinguished as the round-horned elk, is very + different from them. I have never seen the <i>brand-hirtz</i> or <i>cerf + d’Ardennes</i>, nor the European elk. Could I get a sight of them, I think + I should be able to say which of them the American elk resembles most, as + I am tolerably well acquainted with that animal. I must observe, also, + that the horns of the deer, which accompany these spoils, are not of the + fifth or sixth part of the weight of some that I have seen. This + individual has been of three years of age, according to our method of + judging. I have taken measures, particularly, to be furnished with large + horns of our elk and our deer, and therefore beg of you not to consider + those now sent, as furnishing a specimen of their ordinary size. I really + suspect you will find that the moose, the round-horned elk, and the + American deer are species not existing in Europe. The moose is, perhaps, + of a new class. I wish these spoils, Sir, may have the merit of adding any + thing new to the treasures of nature, which have so fortunately come under + your observation, and of which she seems to have given you the key: they + will in that case be some gratification to you, which it will always be + pleasing to me to have procured; having the honor to be, with sentiments + of the most perfect esteem and respect, Sir, your most obedient and most + humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0103" id="link2H_4_0103"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CI.—TO MR. DUMAS, October 4,1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO MR. DUMAS. + </p> + <p> + Paris, October 4,1787. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I received your favor of the 23rd of September two days ago. That of the + 28th and 29th was put in my hands this morning. I immediately waited on + the ambassadors, ordinary and extraordinary, of the United Netherlands, + and also on the envoy of Prussia, and asked their good offices to have an + efficacious protection extended to your person, your family, and your + effects, observing, that the United States know no party, but are the + friends and allies of the United Netherlands as a nation, and would expect + from their friendship, that the person who is charged with their affairs, + until the arrival of a minister, should be covered from all insult and + injury, which might be offered him by a lawless mob; well assured that + their minister, residing with Congress, would on all occasions receive the + same. They have been so good as to promise me, each, that he will in his + first despatches press this matter on the proper power, and give me reason + to hope that it will be efficacious for your safety. I will transmit your + letter to Mr. Jay by the Count de Moustier, who sets out within a week for + New York, as Minister Plenipotentiary for France, in that country. I + sincerely sympathize in your sufferings, and wish that what I have done + may effect an end to them; being with much respect and esteem, Sir, your + most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0104" id="link2H_4_0104"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CII.—TO JOHN JAY, October 8, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, October 8, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I had the honor of writing you on the 19th of September, twice on the + 22nd, and again on the 24th. The two first went by the packet, the third + by a vessel bound to Philadelphia. I have not yet learned by what occasion + the last went. In these several letters, I communicated to you the + occurrences of Europe, as far as they were then known. Notwithstanding the + advantage which the Emperor seemed to have gained over his subjects of + Brabant, by the military arrangements he had been permitted to make under + false pretexts, he has not obtained his ends. He certainly wished to + enforce his new regulations; but he wished more to be cleared of all + domestic difficulties, that he might be free to act in the great scenes + which are preparing for the theatre of Europe. He seems, therefore, to + have instructed his Governor General of the Netherlands to insist on + compliance as far as could be insisted, without producing resistance by + arms; but at the same time, to have furnished him with a sufficiently + complete recantation, to prevent the effects of insurrection. The Governor + pressed; the people were firm; a small act of force was then attempted, + which produced a decided resistance, in which the people killed several of + the military: the last resource was then used, which was the act of + recantation; this produced immediate tranquillity, and every thing there + is now finally settled, by the Emperor’s relinquishment of his plans. + </p> + <p> + My letter of the evening of September the 22nd informed you that the + Prussian troops had entered Holland, and that of the 24th, that England + had announced to this court that she was arming generally. These two + events being simultaneous, proved that the two sovereigns acted in + concert. Immediately after, the court of London announced to the other + courts of Europe, that if France entered Holland with armed force, she + would consider it as an act of hostility, and declare war against her; + sending Mr. Grenville here, at the same time, to make what she called a + conciliatory proposition. This proposition was received as a new insult, + Mr. Grenville very coolly treated, and he has now gone back. It is said, + he has carried the ultimatum of France. What it is, particularly, has not + transpired; it is only supposed, in general, to be very firm. You will + see, in one of the Leyden gazettes, one of the letters written by the + ministers of England to the courts of their respective residence, + communicating the declaration before mentioned. In the mean time, Holland + has been sooner reduced by the Prussian troops, than could have been + expected. The abandonment of Utrecht by the Rhingrave of Salm, seems to + have thrown the people under a general panic, during which every place + submitted, except Amsterdam. That had opened conferences with the Duke of + Brunswick; but as late as the 2nd instant, no capitulation was yet + concluded. The King of Prussia, on his first move, demanded categorically + of the King of Poland, what part he intended to act in the event of war. + The latter answered, he should act as events should dictate; and is, in + consequence of this species of menace from Prussia, arming himself. He can + bring into the field about seventy thousand good cavalry. In the mean + time, though nothing transpires publicly of the confederation between + France and the two empires, mentioned in my letter of September the 19th, + it is not the less sure that it is on the carpet, and will take place. To + the circumstances before mentioned, may be added, as further indications + of war, the naming as Generalissimo of their marine on the Atlantic, + Monsieur de Suffrein, on the Mediterranean, Monsieur Albert de Rioms, the + recalling Monsieur de St. Priest, their ambassador, from Antwerp, before + he had reached the Hague, and the activity of their armies by sea. On the + other hand, the little movement by land would make one suppose they + expected to put the King of Prussia into other hands. They too, like the + Emperor, are arranging matters at home. The rigorous levy of the <i>deux + vingtiemes</i> is enregistered, the stamp act and <i>impot territorial</i> + are revoked, the parliament recalled, the nation soothed by these acts, + and inspired by the insults of the British court. The part of the Council + still leaning towards peace are become unpopular, and perhaps may feel the + effects of it. No change in the administration has taken place since my + last, unless we may consider as such, Monsieur Cabarrus’s refusal to stand + in the lines. Thinking he should be forced to follow, too seriously, plans + formed by others, he has declined serving. + </p> + <p> + Should this war take place, as is quite probable, and should it be as + general as it threatens to be, our neutrality must be attended with great + advantages. Whether of a nature to improve our morals or our happiness, is + another question. But is it sure that Great Britain, by her searches, her + seizures, and other measures for harassing us, will permit us to preserve + our neutrality? I know it may be argued, that the land-war, which she + would superadd to her sea-war, by provoking us to join her enemies, should + rationally hold her to her good behavior with us. But since the accession + of the present monarch, has it not been passion, and not reason, which, + nine times out of ten, has dictated her measures? Has there been a better + rule of prognosticating what he would do, than to examine what he ought + not to do? When I review his dispositions and review his conduct, I have + little hope of his permitting our neutrality. He will find subjects of + provocation in various articles of our treaty with France, which will now + come into view, in all their consequences, and in consequences very + advantageous to the one, and injurious to the other country. I suggest + these doubts, on a supposition that our magazines are not prepared for + war, and in the opinion that provisions for that event should be thought + of. + </p> + <p> + The enclosed letter from Mr. Dumas came to me open, though directed to + you. I immediately waited on the ambassadors, ordinary and extraordinary, + of Holland, and the envoy of Prussia, and prayed them to interest + themselves to have his person, his family, and his goods protected. They + promised me readily to do it, and have written accordingly; I trust it + will be with effect. I could not avoid enclosing you the letter from + Monsieur Bouebe, though I have satisfied him he is to expect nothing from + Congress for his inventions. These are better certified than most of those + things are; but if time stamps their worth, time will give them to us. He + expects no further answer. The gazettes of Leyden and France to this date + accompany this, which will be delivered you by the Count de Moustier, + Minister Plenipotentiary from this country. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect esteem and + respect, Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0105" id="link2H_4_0105"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CIII.—TO JAMES MADISON, October 8, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO JAMES MADISON. + </p> + <p> + Paris, October 8, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + The bearer hereof, the Count de Moustier, successor to Monsieur de la + Luzerne, would, from his office, need no letter of introduction to you or + to any body. Yet I take the liberty of recommending him to you, to shorten + those formal approaches, which the same office would otherwise expose him + to, in making your acquaintance. He is a great enemy to formality, + etiquette, ostentation, and luxury. He goes with the best dispositions to + cultivate society, without poisoning it by ill example. He is sensible, + disposed to view things favorably, and being well acquainted with the + constitution of England, her manners, and language, is the better prepared + for his station with us. But I should have performed only the lesser, and + least pleasing half of my task, were I not to add my recommendations of + Madame de Brehan. She is goodness itself. You must be well acquainted with + her. You will find her well disposed to meet your acquaintance, and well + worthy of it. The way to please her, is to receive her as an acquaintance + of a thousand years’ standing. She speaks little English. You must teach + her more, and learn French from her. She hopes, by accompanying Monsieur + de Moustier, to improve her health, which is very feeble, and still more, + to improve her son in his education, and to remove him to a distance from + the seductions of this country. You will wonder to be told, that there are + no schools in this country to be compared to ours in the sciences. The + husband of Madame de Brehan is an officer, and obliged by the times to + remain with the army. Monsieur de Moustier brings your watch. I have worn + it two months, and really find it a most incomparable one. It will not + want the little re-dressing, which new watches generally do, after going + about a year. It costs six hundred livres. To open it in all its parts, + press the little pin on the edge with the point of your nail; that opens + the crystal; then open the dial-plate in the usual way; then press the + stem, at the end within the loop, and it opens the back for winding up or + regulating. + </p> + <p> + De Moustier is remarkably communicative. With adroitness he may be pumped + of any thing. His openness is from character, not from affectation. An + intimacy with him may, on this account, be politically valuable. + </p> + <p> + I am, Dear Sir, your affectionate friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0106" id="link2H_4_0106"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CIV.—TO JOHN JAY, October 8, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + (Private.) Paris, October 8, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + The Count de Moustier, Minister Plenipotentiary from the court of + Versailles to the United States, will have the honor of delivering you + this. The connection of your offices will necessarily connect you in + acquaintance; but I beg leave to present him to you, on account of his + personal as well as his public character. You will find him open, + communicative, candid, simple in his manners, and a declared enemy to + ostentation and luxury. He goes with a resolution to add no aliment to it + by his example, unless he finds that the dispositions of our countrymen + require it indispensably. Permit me, at the same time, to solicit your + friendly notice, and through you, that also of Mrs. Jay, to Madame la + Marquise de Brehan, sister-in-law to Monsieur de Moustier. She accompanies + him, in hopes that a change of climate may assist her feeble health, and + also, that she may procure a more valuable education for her son, and + safer from seduction, in America than in France. I think it impossible to + find a better woman, more amiable, more modest, more simple in her + manners, dress, and way of thinking. She will deserve the friendship of + Mrs. Jay, and the way to obtain hers, is to receive her and treat her + without the shadow of etiquette. + </p> + <p> + The Count d’Aranda leaves us in a day or two. He desired me to recall him + to your recollection, and to assure you of his friendship. In a letter + which I mean as a private one, I may venture details too minute for a + public one, yet not unamusing, or unsatisfactory. I may venture names too, + without the danger of their getting into a newspaper. There has long been + a division in the Council here, on the question of war and peace. Monsieur + de Montmorin and Monsieur de Breteuil have been constantly for war. They + are supported in this by the Queen. The King goes for nothing. He hunts + one half the day, is drunk the other, and signs whatever he is bid. The + Archbishop of Toulouse desires peace. Though brought in by the Queen, he + is opposed to her in this capital object, which would produce an alliance + with her brother. Whether the Archbishop will yield or not, I know not. + But an intrigue is already begun for ousting him from his place, and it is + rather probable it will succeed. He is a good and patriotic minister for + peace, and very capable in the department of finance. At least he is so in + theory. I have heard his talents for execution censured. + </p> + <p> + Can I be useful here to Mrs. Jay or yourself, in executing any + commissions, great or small? I offer you my services with great + cordiality. You know whether any of the wines of this country may attract + your wishes. In my tour, last spring, I visited the best vineyards of + Burgundy, Cote-rotie, Hermitage, Lunelle, Frontignan, and white and red + Bordeaux, got acquainted with the proprietors, and can procure for you the + best crops from the vigneron himself. Mrs. Jay knows if there is any thing + else here, in which I could be useful to her. Command me without ceremony, + as it will give me real pleasure to serve you; and be assured of the + sincere attachment and friendship, with which I am, Dear Sir, your most + obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0107" id="link2H_4_0107"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CV.—TO MONSIEUR LE COMTE DE MOUSTIER, October 9,1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO MONSIEUR LE COMTE DE MOUSTIER. + </p> + <p> + Paris, October 9,1787. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Jefferson has the honor of presenting his respects to Monsieur le + Comte de Moustier, and of taking leave of him by letter, which he is + prevented doing in person, by an unexpected visit to Versailles to-day. He + will hope to have the pleasure of sometimes hearing from him, and will + take the liberty occasionally, of troubling him with a letter. He + considers the Count de Moustier as forming with himself the two end links + of that chain which holds the two nations together, and is happy to have + observed in him dispositions to strengthen rather than to weaken it. It is + a station of importance, as on the cherishing good dispositions and + quieting bad ones, will depend in some degree the happiness and prosperity + of the two countries. The Count de Moustier will find the affections of + the Americans with France, but their habits with England. Chained to that + country by circumstances, embracing what they loathe, they realize the + fable of the living and the dead bound together. Mr. Jefferson troubles + the Count de Moustier with two letters, to gentlemen whom he wishes to + recommend to his particular acquaintance, and to that of Madame de Brehan. + He bids Monsieur de Moustier a most friendly adieu, and wishes him every + thing which may render agreeable his passage across the water, and his + residence beyond it. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0108" id="link2H_4_0108"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CVI.—TO MADAME DE BREHAN, October 9, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO MADAME DE BREHAN. + </p> + <p> + Paris, October 9, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Persuaded, Madam, that visits at this moment must be troublesome I beg you + to accept my adieus, in this form. Be assured, that no one mingles with + them more regret at separating from you. I will ask your permission to + inquire of you by letter sometimes, how our country agrees with your + health and your expectations, and will hope to hear it from yourself. The + imitation of European manners, which you will find in our towns, will, I + fear, be little pleasing. I beseech you to practise still your own, which + will furnish them a model of what is perfect. Should you be singular, it + will be by excellence, and after a while you will see the effect of your + example. + </p> + <p> + Heaven bless you, Madam, and guard you under all circumstances; give you + smooth waters, gentle breezes, and clear skies, hushing all its elements + into peace, and leading with its own hand the favored bark, till it shall + have safely landed its precious charge on the shores of our new world. + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0109" id="link2H_4_0109"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CVII.—TO MR. DUMAS, October 14, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO MR. DUMAS. + </p> + <p> + Paris, October 14, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have duly received your favors of October the 23rd and 26th. With + respect to the mission you suggest, in the former, no powers are lodged in + the hands of Mr. Adams and myself. Congress commissioned Mr. Adams, Doctor + Franklin, and myself, to treat with the Emperor on the subjects of amity + and commerce: at the same time, they gave us the commission to Prussia, + with which you are acquainted. We proposed treating through the Imperial + ambassador here. It was declined on their part, and our powers expired, + having been given but for two years. Afterwards, the same ambassador here + was instructed to offer to treat with us. I informed him our powers were + expired, but that I would write to Congress on the subject. I did so, but + have never yet received an answer. Whether this proceeds from a change of + opinion in them, or from the multiplicity of their occupations, I am + unable to say: but this state of facts will enable you to see that we have + no powers, in this instance, to take the measures you had thought of. I + sincerely sympathize with you in your sufferings. Though forbidden by my + character to meddle in the internal affairs of an allied State, it is the + wish of my heart that their troubles may have such an issue, as will + secure the greatest degree of happiness to the body of the people: for it + is with the mass of the nation we are allied, and not merely with their + governors. To inform the minds of the people, and to follow their will, is + the chief duty of those placed at their head. What party in your late + struggles was most likely to do this, you are more competent to judge than + I am. Under every event, that you maybe safe and happy, is the sincere + wish of him, who has the honor to be, with sentiments of great esteem, + Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0110" id="link2H_4_0110"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CVIII.—TO MADAME DE CORNY, October 18, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO MADAME DE CORNY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, October 18, 1787. + </p> + <p> + I now have the honor, Madam, to send you the Memoire of M. de Calonne. Do + not injure yourself by hurrying its perusal. Only, when you shall have + read it at your ease, be so good as to send it back, that it may be + returned to the Duke of Dorset. You will read it with pleasure. It has + carried comfort to my heart, because it must do the same to the King and + the nation. Though it does not prove M. de Calonne to be more innocent + than his predecessors, it shows him not to have been that exaggerated + scoundrel, which the calculations and the clamors of the public have + supposed. It shows that the public treasures have not been so + inconceivably squandered, as the parliaments of Grenoble, Toulouse, &c. + had affirmed. In fine, it shows him less wicked, and France less badly + governed, than I had feared. In examining my little collection of books, + to see what it could furnish you on the subject of Poland, I find a small + piece which may serve as a supplement to the history I had sent you. It + contains a mixture of history and politics, which I think you will like—How + do you do this morning? I have feared you exerted and exposed yourself too + much yesterday. I ask you the question, though I shall not await its + answer. The sky is clearing, and I shall away to my hermitage. God bless + you, my Dear Madam, now and always. Adieu. + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0111" id="link2H_4_0111"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CIX.—TO THE COUNT DE MONTMORIN, October 23, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO THE COUNT DE MONTMORIN. + </p> + <p> + Paris, October 23, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I take the liberty of troubling your Excellency on the subject of the <i>ArrĂŞt</i>, + which has lately appeared, for prohibiting the importation of whale-oils + and spermaceti, the produce of foreign fisheries. This prohibition, being + expressed in general terms, seems to exclude the whale-oils of the United + States of America, as well as of the nations of Europe. The uniform + disposition, however, which his Majesty and his ministers have shown to + promote the commerce between France and the United States, by encouraging + our productions to come hither, and particularly those of our fisheries, + induces me to hope, that these were not within their view, at the passing + of this <i>ArrĂŞt</i>. I am led the more into this opinion, when I + recollect the assiduity exercised for several months, in the year 1785, by + the committee appointed by government to investigate the objects of + commerce of the two countries, and to report the encouragements of which + it was susceptible; the result of that investigation, which his Majesty’s + Comptroller General did me the honor to communicate, in a letter of the + 22nd of October, 1786, stating therein the principles which should be + established for the future regulation of that commerce, and particularly + distinguishing the article of whale-oils by an abatement of the duties on + them for the present, and a promise of farther abatement after the year + 1790; the thorough re-investigation with which Monsieur de Lambert honored + this subject when the letter of 1786 was to be put into the form of an <i>ArrĂŞt</i>; + that <i>ArrĂŞt</i> itself, bearing date the 29th of December last, which + ultimately confirmed the abatements of duty present and future, and + declared that his Majesty reserved to himself to grant other favors to + that production, if, on further information, he should find it for the + interest of the two nations; and finally, the letter in which Monsieur de + Lambert did me the honor to enclose the <i>ArrĂŞt</i>, and to assure me, + that the duties which had been levied on our whale-oils, contrary to the + intention of the letter of 1786, should be restored. On a review, then, of + all these circumstances, I cannot but presume, that it has not been + intended to reverse, in a moment, views so maturely digested, and + uniformly pursued; and that the general expressions of the <i>ArrĂŞt</i> of + September the 28th had within their contemplation the nations of Europe + only. This presumption is further strengthened by having observed, that in + the treaties of commerce, made since the epoch of our independence, the <i>jura + gentis amicissimcæ</i> conceded to other nations, are expressly restrained + to those of the ‘most favored European nation’: his Majesty wisely + foreseeing that it would be expedient to regulate the commerce of a + nation, which brings nothing but raw materials to employ the industry of + his subjects, very differently from that of the European nations, who + bring mostly what has already passed through all the stages of + manufacture. + </p> + <p> + On these circumstances, I take the liberty of asking information from your + Excellency, as to the extent of the late <i>ArrĂŞt</i>: and if I have not + been mistaken in supposing it did not mean to abridge that of December the + 29th, I would solicit an explanatory <i>ArrĂŞt</i>, to prevent the + misconstruction of it, which will otherwise take place. It is much to be + desired too, that this explanation could be given as soon as possible, in + order that it may be handed out with the <i>ArrĂŞt</i> of September the + 28th. Great alarm may otherwise be spread among the merchants, and + adventurers in the fisheries, who, confiding in the stability of + regulations, which his Majesty’s wisdom had so long and well matured, have + embarked their fortunes in speculations in this branch of business. + </p> + <p> + The importance of the subject to one of the principal members of our + Union, induces me to attend with great anxiety the re-assurance from your + Excellency, that no change has taken place in his Majesty’s views on this + subject; and that his dispositions to multiply, rather than diminish, the + combinations of interest between the two people, continue unaltered. + </p> + <p> + Commerce is slow in changing its channel. That between this country and + the United States is as yet but beginning; and this beginning has received + some checks. The <i>ArrĂŞt</i> in question would be a considerable one, + without the explanation I have the honor to ask. I am persuaded, that a + continuation of the dispositions which have been hitherto manifested + towards us, will insure effects, political and commercial, of value to + both nations. + </p> + <p> + I have had too many proofs of the friendly interest your Excellency is + pleased to take in whatever may strengthen the bands and connect the views + of the two countries, to doubt your patronage of the present application; + or to pretermit any occasion of repeating assurances of those sentiments + of high respect and esteem, with which I have the honor to be + </p> + <p> + your Excellency’s most obedient + </p> + <p> + and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0112" id="link2H_4_0112"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CX.—TO JOHN JAY, November 3, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, November 3, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + My last letters to you were of the 8th and 27th of October. In the former? + I mentioned to you the declaration of this country, that they would + interpose with force, if the Prussian troops entered Holland; the entry of + those troops into Holland; the declaration of England, that if France did + oppose force, they would consider it as an act of war; the naval armaments + on both sides; the nomination of the Bailli de Suffrein as Generalissimo + on the ocean; and the cold reception of Mr. Grenville here, with his + conciliatory propositions, as so many symptoms which seemed to indicate a + certain and immediate rupture. It was indeed universally and hourly + expected. But the king of Prussia, a little before these last events, got + wind of the alliance on the carpet between France and the two empires: he + awaked to the situation in which that would place him: he made some + application to the court of St. Petersburg, to divert the Empress from the + proposed alliance, and supplicated the court of London not to abandon him. + That court had also received a hint of the same project; both seemed to + suspect, for the first time, that it would be possible for France to + abandon the Turks, and that they were likely to get more than they had + played for at Constantinople: for they had meant nothing more there, than + to divert the Empress and Emperor from the affairs of the west, by + employing them in the east, and, at the same time, to embroil them with + France as the patroness of the Turks. The court of London engaged not to + abandon Prussia: but both of them relaxed a little the tone of their + proceedings. The King of Prussia sent a Mr. Alvensleben here, expressly to + explain and soothe: the King of England, notwithstanding the cold + reception of his propositions by Grenville, renewed conferences here + through Eden and the Duke of Dorset. The minister, in the affection of his + heart for peace, readily joined in conference, and a declaration and + counter-declaration were cooked up at Versailles, and sent to London for + approbation. They were approved, arrived here at one o’clock the 27th, + were signed that night at Versailles, and on the next day, I had the honor + of enclosing them to you, under cover to the Count de Moustier, whom I + supposed still at Brest, dating my letter as of the 27th, by mistake for + the 28th. Lest, however, these papers should not have got to Brest before + the departure of the Count de Moustier, I now enclose you other copies. + The English declaration states a notification of this court, in September, + by Barthelemy, their minister at London, ‘that they would send succors + into Holland,’ as the first cause of England’s arming; desires an + explanation of the intentions of this court, as to the affairs of Holland, + and proposes to disarm; on condition, however, that the King of France + shall not retain any hostile views in any quarter, for what has been done + in Holland. This last phrase was to secure Prussia, according to promise. + The King of France acknowledges the notification by his minister at + London, promises he will do nothing in consequence of it, declares he has + no intention to intermeddle with force in the affairs of Holland, and that + he will entertain hostile views in no quarter, for what has been done + there. He disavows having ever had any intention to interpose with force + in the affairs of that republic. This disavowal begins the sentence, which + acknowledges he had notified the contrary to the court of London, and it + includes no apology to soothe the feelings which may be excited in the + breasts of the Patriots of Holland, at hearing the King declare he never + did intend to aid them with force, when promises to do this were the basis + of those very attempts to better their constitution, which have ended in + its ruin, as well as their own. + </p> + <p> + I have analyzed these declarations, because, being somewhat wrapped up in + their expressions, their full import might escape, on a transient reading; + and it is necessary it should not escape. It conveys to us the important + lesson, that no circumstances of morality, honor, interest, or engagement, + are sufficient to authorize a secure reliance on any nation, at all times, + and in all positions. A moment of difficulty, or a moment of error, may + render for ever useless the most friendly dispositions in the King, in the + major part of his ministers, and the whole of his nation. The present + pacification is considered by most, as only a short truce. They calculate + on the spirit of the nation, and not on the aged hand which guides its + movements. It is certain, that from this moment the whole system of Europe + changes. Instead of counting together England, Austria, and Russia, as + heretofore, against France, Spain, Holland, Prussia, and Turkey, the + division will probably be, England, Holland, and Prussia, against France, + Austria, Russia, and perhaps Spain. This last power is not sure, because + the dispositions of its heir apparent are not sure. But whether the + present be truce or peace, it will allow time to mature the conditions of + the alliance between France and the two empires, always supposed to be on + the carpet. It is thought to be obstructed by the avidity of the Emperor, + who would swallow a good part of Turkey, Silesia, Bavaria, and the rights + of the Germanic body. To the two or three first articles, France might + consent, receiving in gratification a well rounded portion of the Austrian + Netherlands, with the islands of Candia, Cyprus, Rhodes, and perhaps Lower + Egypt. But all this is in embryo, uncertainly known, and counterworked by + the machinations of the courts of London and Berlin. The following + solution of the British armaments is supposed in a letter of the 25th + ultimo, from Colonel Blachden of Connecticut, now at Dunkirk, to the + Marquis de la Fayette. I will cite it in his own words. “A gentleman who + left London two days ago, and came to this place to-day, informs me that + it is now generally supposed that Mr. Pitt’s great secret, which has + puzzled the whole nation so long, and to accomplish which design, the + whole force of the nation is armed, is to make a vigorous effort for the + recovery of America. When I recollect the delay they have made in + delivering the forts in America, and that little more than a year ago, one + of the British ministry wrote to the King a letter, in which were these + remarkable words, ‘If your Majesty pleases, America may yet be yours;’ add + to this, if it were possible for the present ministry in England to effect + such a matter, they would secure their places and their power for a long + time, and should they fail in the end, they would be certain of holding + them during the attempt, which it is in their power to prolong as much as + they please, and at all events, they would boast of having endeavored the + recovery of what a former ministry had abandoned, it is possible.” A + similar surmise has come in a letter from a person in Rotterdam to one at + this place. I am satisfied that the King of England believes the mass of + our people to be tired of their independence, and desirous of returning + under his government; and that the same opinion prevails in the ministry + and nation. They have hired their news-writers to repeat this lie in their + gazettes so long, that they have become the dupes of it themselves. But + there is no occasion to recur to this, in order to account for their + arming. A more rational purpose avowed, that purpose executed, and when + executed, a solemn agreement to disarm, seem to leave no doubt, that the + re-establishment of the Stadtholder was their object. Yet it is possible, + that having found that this court will not make war in this moment for any + ally, new views may arise, and they may think the moment favorable for + executing any purposes they may have, in our quarter. Add to this, that + reason is of no aid in calculating their movements. We are, therefore, + never safe till our magazines are filled with arms. The present season of + truce, or peace, should, in my opinion, be improved without a moment’s + respite, to effect this essential object, and no means be omitted, by + which money may be obtained for the purpose. I say this, however, with due + deference to the opinion of Congress, who are better judges of the + necessity and practicability of the measure. + </p> + <p> + I mentioned to you, in a former letter, the application I had made to the + Dutch ambassadors and Prussian envoy, for the protection of Mr. Dumas. The + latter soon after received an assurance, that he was put under the + protection of the States of Holland; and the Dutch ambassador called on me + a few days ago, to inform me, by instruction from his constituents, ‘that + the States General had received a written application from Mr. Adams, + praying their protection of Dumas: that they had instructed their + greffier, Fagel, to assure Mr. Adams, by letter, that he was under the + protection of the States of Holland; but to inform him, at the same time, + that Mr. Dumas’s conduct, out of the line of his office, had been so + extraordinary, that they would expect <i>de l’honnĂŞtetĂ© de Mr. Adams</i>, + that he would charge some other person with the affairs of the United + States, during his absence.’ + </p> + <p> + Your letter, of September the 8th, has been duly received. I shall pay due + attention to the instructions relative to the medals, and give any aid I + can, in the case of Boss’s vessel. As yet, however, my endeavors to find + <i>Monsieur Pauly, avocat au conseil d’Ă©tat, rue Coquilliere</i>, have + been ineffectual. There is no such person living in that street. I found a + <i>Monsieur Pauly, avocat au parlement</i>, in another part of the town; + he opened the letter, but said it could not mean him. I shall advertise in + the public papers. If that fails, there will be no other chance of finding + him. Mr. Warnum will do well, therefore, to send some other description by + which the person may be found. Indeed some friend of the party interested + should be engaged to follow up this business, as it will require constant + attention, and probably a much larger sum of money than that named in the + bill inclosed in Mr. Warnum’s letter. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to enclose you a letter from O’Bryan to me, containing + information from Algiers, and one from Mr. Montgomery at Alicant. The + purpose of sending you this last, is to show you how much the difficulties + of ransom are increased since the Spanish negotiations. The Russian + captives have cost about eight thousand livres apiece, on an average. I + certainly have no idea that we should give any such sum; and, therefore, + if it should be the sense of Congress to give such a price, I would be + glad to know it by instruction. My idea is, that we should not ransom but + on the footing of the nation which pays least, that it may be as little + worth their while to go in pursuit of us, as any nation. This is cruelty + to the individuals now in captivity, but kindness to the hundreds that + would soon be so, were we to make it worth the while of those pirates to + go out of the Streights, in quest of us. As soon as money is provided, I + shall put this business into train. I have taken measures to damp, at + Algiers, all expectations of our proposing to ransom, at any price. I feel + the distress which this must occasion to our countrymen there, and their + connections; but the object of it is their ultimate good, by bringing down + their holders to such a price as we ought to pay, instead of letting them + remain in such expectations as cannot be gratified. The gazettes of France + and Leyden accompany this. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect esteem and + respect, Sir, your most obedient humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [The annexed are translations of the declaration and + counter-declaration, referred to in the preceding letter.] +</pre> + <p> + DECLARATION. + </p> + <p> + The events which have taken place in the republic of the United Provinces + appearing no longer to leave any subject of discussion, and still less of + dispute, between the two courts, the undersigned are authorized to ask, if + it be the intention of his Most Christian Majesty to act in pursuance of + the notification given, on the 16th of last month, by the Minister + Plenipotentiary of his Most Christian Majesty, which, announcing his + purpose of aiding Holland, has occasioned maritime armaments on the part + of his Majesty, which armaments have become reciprocal. + </p> + <p> + If the court of Versailles is disposed to explain itself on this subject, + and on the conduct adopted towards the republic, in a manner conformably + to the desire, evinced by each party, to preserve a good understanding + between the two courts, it being also understood, at the same time, that + no hostile view is entertained, in any quarter, in consequence of the + past; his Majesty, always eager to manifest his concurrence in the + friendly sentiments of his Most Christian Majesty, agrees forthwith that + the armaments, and, in general, all preparations for war, shall be + mutually discontinued, and that the marines of the two nations shall be + placed on the footing of a peace establishment, such as existed on the + first of January of the present year. + </p> + <p> + Signed. Dorset Wm. Eden. + </p> + <p> + At Versailles, the 27th of October, 1787. + </p> + <p> + COUNTER-DECLARATION. + </p> + <p> + It neither being, nor ever having been, the intention of his Majesty to + interpose by force in the affairs of the republic of the United Provinces, + the communication made to the court of London by M. Barthelemy having had + no other object than to announce to that court an intention, the motives + of which no longer-exist, especially since the King of Prussia has made + known his resolution, his Majesty makes no difficulty in declaring, that + he has no wish to act in pursuance of the communication aforesaid, and + that he entertains no hostile view in any quarter, relative to what has + passed in Holland. + </p> + <p> + Consequently, his Majesty, desiring to concur in the sentiments of his + Britannic Majesty, for the preservation of a good understanding between + the two courts, consents with pleasure to the proposition of his Britannic + Majesty, that the armaments, and, in general, all preparations for war, + shall be mutually discontinued, and that the marines of the two nations + shall be replaced upon the footing of the peace establishment, as it + existed on the first day of January of the present year. + </p> + <p> + Signed. Montmorin. + </p> + <p> + At Versailles, the 27th of October, 1787. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0113" id="link2H_4_0113"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXI.—TO JOHN JAY, November 3, 1787 + </h2> + <h3> + TO JOHN JAY. + </h3> + <p> + (Private.) Paris, November 3, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I shall take the liberty of confiding sometimes to a private letter, such + details of the small history of the court or cabinet, as may be worthy of + being known, and yet not proper to be publicly communicated. I doubt + whether the administration is yet in a permanent form. The Count de + Montmorin and Baron de Breteuil are, I believe, firm enough in their + places. It was doubted whether they would wait for the Count de la + Luzerne, if the war had taken place: but at present I suppose they will. I + wish it also, because M. de Hector, his only competitor, has on some + occasions shown little value for the connection with us. Lambert, the + Comptroller General, is thought to be very insecure. I should be sorry + also to lose him. I have worked several days with him, the Marquis de la + Fayette, and Monsieur du Pont (father of the young gentleman gone to + America with the Count de Moustier), to reduce into one <i>ArrĂŞt</i> + whatever concerned our commerce. I have found him a man of great judgment + and application, possessing good general principles on subjects of + commerce, and friendly dispositions towards us. He passed the <i>ArrĂŞt</i> + in a very favorable form, but it has been opposed in the Council, and + will, I fear, suffer some alteration in the article of whale-oil. That of + tobacco, which was put into a separate instrument, experiences + difficulties also, which do not come from him. M. du Pont has rendered us + essential services on these occasions. I wish his son could be so well + noticed, as to make a favorable report to his father; he would, I think, + be gratified by it, and his good dispositions be strengthened, and + rendered further useful to us. Whether I shall be able to send you these + regulations by the present packet, will depend on their getting through + the Council in time. The Archbishop continues well with his patroness. Her + object is, a close connection with her brother. I suppose he convinces + her, that peace will furnish the best occasion of cementing that + connection. + </p> + <p> + It may not be uninstructive to give you the origin and nature of his + influence with the Queen. When the Duke de Choiseul proposed the marriage + of the Dauphin with this lady, he thought it proper to send a person to + Vienna, to perfect her in the language. He asked his friend, the + Archbishop of Toulouse, to recommend to him a proper person. He + recommended a certain Abbe. The Abbe, from his first arrival at Vienna, + either tutored by his patron, or prompted by gratitude, impressed on the + Queen’s mind the exalted talents and merit of the Archbishop, and + continually represented him as the only man fit to be placed at the helm + of affairs. On his return to Paris, being retained near the person of the + Queen, he kept him constantly in her view. The Archbishop was named of the + <i>Assembly des Notables</i>, had occasion enough there to prove his + talents, and Count de Vergennes, his great enemy, dying opportunely, the + Queen got him into place. He uses the Abbe even yet, for instilling all + his notions into her mind. That he has imposing talents and patriotic + dispositions, I think is certain. Good judges think him a theorist only, + little acquainted with the details of business, and spoiling all his plans + by a bungled execution. He may perhaps undergo a severe trial. His best + actions are exciting against him a host of enemies, particularly the + reduction of the pensions, and reforms in other branches of economy. Some + think the other ministers are willing he should stay in, till he has + effected this odious, yet necessary work, and that they will then make him + the scape-goat of the transaction. The declarations too, which I send you + in my public letter, if they should become public, will probably raise an + universal cry. It will all fall on him, because Montmorin and Breteuil + say, without reserve, that the sacrifice of the Dutch has been against + their advice. He will, perhaps, not permit these declarations to appear in + this country. They are absolutely unknown: they were communicated to me by + the Duke of Dorset, and I believe no other copy has been given here. They + will be published doubtless in England, as a proof of their triumph, and + may from thence make their way into this country. If the Premier can stem + a few months, he may remain long in office, and will never make war if he + can help it. If he should be removed, the peace will probably be short. He + is solely chargeable with the loss of Holland. True, they could not have + raised money by taxes to supply the necessities of war; but could they do + it were their finances ever so well arranged? No nation makes war + now-a-days, but by the aid of loans: and it is probable, that in a war for + the liberties of Holland, all the treasures of that country would have + been at their service. They have now lost the cow which furnishes the milk + of war. She will be on the side of their enemies, whenever a rupture shall + take place: and no arrangement of their finances can countervail this + circumstance. + </p> + <p> + I have no doubt, you permit access to the letters of your foreign + ministers, by persons only of the most perfect trust. It is in the + European system to bribe the clerks high, in order to obtain copies of + interesting papers. I am sure you are equally attentive to the conveyance + of your letters to us, as you know that all are opened that pass through + any post-office of Europe. Your letters which come by the packet, if put + into the mail at New York, or into the post-office at Havre, wear proofs + that they have been opened. The passenger to whom they are confided, + should be cautioned always to keep them in his own hands, till he can + deliver them personally in Paris. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with very sincere esteem and respect, Dear Sir, + your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0114" id="link2H_4_0114"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXII.—TO THE COUNT DE MONTMORIN, November 6, 1787 + </h2> + <h3> + TO THE COUNT DE MONTMORIN. + </h3> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + Paris, November 6, 1787. + </p> + <p> + I take the liberty of asking your Excellency’s perusal of the enclosed + case of an American hostage, confined in the prisons of Dunkirk. His + continuance there seems to be useless, and yet endless. Not knowing how + far the government can interfere for his relief, as it is a case wherein + private property is concerned, I do not presume to ask his liberation + absolutely: but I will solicit from your Excellency such measures in his + behalf, as the laws and usages of the country may permit. + </p> + <p> + The Comptroller General having been so good as to explain to me in a + conversation, that he wished to know what duties were levied in England on + American whale-oil, I have had the honor of informing him by letter, that + the ancient duties on that article are seventeen pounds, six shillings, + and six pence, sterling, the ton, and that some late additional duties + make them amount to about eighteen pounds sterling. That the common + whale-oil sells there but for about twenty pounds sterling, the ton, and + of course the duty amounts to a prohibition. This duty was originally laid + on all foreign fish-oil, with a view to favor the British and American + fisheries. When we became independent, and of course foreign to Great + Britain, we became subject to the foreign duty. No duty, therefore, which + France may think proper to lay on this article, can drive it to the + English market. It could only oblige the inhabitants of Nantucket to + abandon their fishery. But the poverty of their soil offering them no + other resource, they must quit their country, and either establish + themselves in Nova Scotia, where, as British fishermen, they may + participate of the British premium, in addition to the ordinary price of + their whale-oil, or they must accept the conditions which this government + offers, for the establishment they have proposed at Dunkirk. Your + Excellency will judge, what conditions may counterbalance, in their minds, + the circumstances of the vicinity of Nova Scotia, sameness of + langague,[sp.] laws, religion, customs, and kindred. Remaining in their + native country, to which they are most singularly attached, excluded from + commerce with England, taught to look to France as the only country from + which they can derive sustenance, they will, in case of war, become useful + rovers against its enemies. Their position, their poverty, their courage, + their address, and their hatred, will render them formidable scourges on + the British commerce. It is to be considered then, on the one hand, that + the duty which M. de Calonne had proposed to retain on their oil, may + endanger the shifting this useful body of seamen out of our joint scale + into that of the British; and also may suppress a considerable subject of + exchange for the productions of France: on the other hand, that it may + produce an addition to his Majesty’s revenue. What I have thus far said, + is on the supposition, that the duty may operate a diminution of the price + received by the fishermen. If it act in the contrary direction, and + produce an augmentation of price to the consumer, it immediately brings + into competition a variety of other oils, vegetable and animal, a good + part of which France receives from abroad, and the fisherman, thus losing + his market, is compelled equally to change either his calling or country. + When M. de Calonne first agreed to reduce the duties to what he has + declared, I had great hopes the commodity could bear them, and that it + would become a medium of commerce between France and the United States. I + must confess, however, that my expectations have not been fulfilled, and + that but little has come here as yet. This induces me to fear, that it is + so poor an article, that any duty whatever will suppress it. Should this + take place, and the spirit of emigration once seize those people, perhaps + an abolition of all duty might then come too late to stop, what it would + now easily prevent. I fear there is danger in the experiment; and it + remains for the wisdom of his Majesty and his ministers to decide, whether + the prospect of gain to the revenue, or establishing a national fishery, + may compensate this danger. If the government should decide to retain the + duty, I shall acquiesce in it cheerfully, and do every thing in my power + to encourage my countrymen still to continue their occupation. + </p> + <p> + The actual session of our several legislatures would render it interesting + to forward immediately the regulations proposed on our commerce; and the + expiration of the order of Bernis, at the close of this month, endangers a + suspension and derangement in the commerce of tobacco, very embarrassing + to the merchants of the two countries. Pardon me therefore, Sir, if I + appear solicitous to obtain the ultimate decision of his Majesty’s Council + on these subjects, and to ask as early a communication of that decision, + as shall be convenient. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most profound esteem and + respect, your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0115" id="link2H_4_0115"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXIII.—TO JOHN ADAMS, November 13, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN ADAMS. + </p> + <p> + Paris, November 13, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + This will be delivered you by young Mr. Rutledge. Your knowledge of his + father will introduce him to your notice. He merits it, moreover, on his + own account. + </p> + <p> + I am now to acknowledge your favors of October the 8th and 26th. That of + August the 25th was duly received, nor can I recollect by what accident I + was prevented from acknowledging it in mine of September the 28th. It has + been the source of my subsistence hitherto, and must continue to be so, + till I receive letters on the affairs of money from America. Van + Staphorsts and Willinks have answered my drafts. Your books for Marquis de + la Fayette are received here. I will notify it to him, who is at present + with his Provincial Assembly in Auvergne. + </p> + <p> + Little is said lately of the progress of the negotiations between the + courts of Petersburg, Vienna, and Versailles. The distance of the former, + and the cautious, unassuming character of its minister here, is one cause + of delays: a greater one is, the greediness and instable character of the + Emperor. Nor do I think that the Principal here, will be easily induced to + lend himself to any connection, which shall threaten a war within a + considerable number of years. His own reign will be that of peace only, in + all probability; and were any accident to tumble him down, this country + would immediately gird on its sword and buckler, and trust to occurrences + for supplies of money. The wound their honor has sustained, festers in + their hearts; and it may be said with truth, that the Archbishop and a few + priests, determined to support his measures, because proud to see their + order come again into power, are the only advocates for the line of + conduct which has been pursued. It is said, and believed through Paris + literally, that the Count de Montmorin ‘<i>pleuroit comme un enfant</i>,’ + when obliged to sign the counter-declaration. Considering the phrase as + figurative, I believe it expresses the distress of his heart. Indeed, he + has made no secret of his individual opinion. In the mean time, the + Principal goes on with a firm and patriotic spirit in reforming the cruel + abuses of the government, and preparing a new constitution, which will + give to this people as much liberty as they are capable of managing. This, + I think, will be the glory of his administration, because, though a good + theorist in finance, he is thought to execute badly. They are about to + open a loan of one hundred millions to supply present wants, and it is + said, the preface of the <i>ArrĂŞt</i> will contain a promise of the + convocation of the States General during the ensuing year. Twelve or + fifteen Provincial Assemblies are already in action, and are going on + well: and I think, that, though the nation suffers in reputation, it will + gain infinitely in happiness under the present administration. I enclose + to Mr. Jay a pamphlet, which I will beg of you to forward. I leave it open + for your perusal. When you shall have read it, be so good as to stick a + wafer in it. It is not yet published, nor will be for some days. This copy + has been ceded to me as a favor. + </p> + <p> + How do you like our new constitution? I confess there are things in it, + which stagger all my dispositions to subscribe to what such an Assembly + has proposed. The House of federal representatives will not be adequate to + the management of affairs, either foreign or federal. Their President + seems a bad edition of a Polish King. He may be elected from four years to + four years, for life. Reason and experience prove to us, that a chief + magistrate, so continuable, is an office for life. When one or two + generations shall have proved, that this is an office for life, it + becomes, on every succession, worthy of intrigue, of bribery, of force, + and even of foreign interference. It will be of great consequence to + France and England, to have America governed by a Galloman or Angloman. + Once in office, and possessing the military force of the Union, without + the aid or check of a council, he would not be easily dethroned, even if + the people could be induced to withdraw their votes from him. I wish that + at the end of the four years, they had made him for ever ineligible a + second time. Indeed, I think all the good of this new constitution might + have been couched in three or four new articles to be added to the good, + old, and venerable fabric, which should have been preserved even as a + religious relique. Present me and my daughters affectionately to Mrs. + Adams. The younger one continues to speak of her warmly. Accept yourself + assurances of the sincere esteem and respect, with which I have the honor + to be, Dear Sir, your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0116" id="link2H_4_0116"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXIV.—TO COLONEL SMITH, November 13, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO COLONEL SMITH. + </p> + <p> + Paris, November 13, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I am now to acknowledge the receipt of your favors of October the 4th, + 8th, and 26th. In the last, you apologize for your letters of introduction + to Americans coming here. It is so far from needing apology on your part, + that it calls for thanks on mine. I endeavor to show civilities to all the + Americans who come here, and who will give me opportunities of doing it: + and it is a matter of comfort to know, from a good quarter, what they are, + and how far I may go in my attentions to them. + </p> + <p> + Can you send me Woodmason’s bills for the two copying presses, for the + Marquis de la Fayette and the Marquis de Chastellux? The latter makes one + article in a considerable account, of old standing, and which I cannot + present for want of this article. I do not know whether it is to yourself + or Mr. Adams I am to give my thanks for the copy of the new constitution. + I beg leave, through you, to place them where due. It will yet be three + weeks before I shall receive them from America. There are very good + articles in it; and very bad. I do not know which preponderate. What we + have lately read in the history of Holland, in the chapter on the + Stadtholder, would have sufficed to set me against a chief magistrate + eligible for a long duration, if I had ever been disposed towards one: and + what we have always read of the elections of Polish Kings, should have for + ever excluded the idea of one continuable for life. Wonderful is the + effect of impudent and persevering lying. The British ministry have so + long hired their gazetteers to repeat, and model into every form, lies + about our being in anarchy, that the world has at length believed them, + the English nation has believed them, the ministers themselves have come + to believe them, and what is more wonderful, we have believed them + ourselves. Yet where does this anarchy exist? Where did it ever exist, + except in the single instance of Massachusetts? And can history produce an + instance of rebellion so honorably conducted? I say nothing of its + motives. They were founded in ignorance, not wickedness. God forbid, we + should ever be twenty years without such a rebellion. The people cannot be + all, and always, well informed. The part which is wrong will be + discontented, in proportion to the importance of the facts they + misconceive. If they remain quiet under such misconceptions, it is a + lethargy, the forerunner of death to the public liberty. We have had + thirteen States independent for eleven years. There has been one + rebellion. That comes to one rebellion in a century and a half for each + State. What country before ever existed a century and a half without a + rebellion? And what country can preserve its liberties, if its rulers are + not warned from time to time, that this people preserve the spirit of + resistance? Let them take arms. The remedy is to set them right as to + facts, pardon, and pacify them. What signify a few lives lost in a century + or two? The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the + blood of patriots and tyrants. It is its natural manure. Our convention + has been too much impressed by the insurrection of Massachusetts: and on + the spur of the moment, they are setting up a kite to keep the hen-yard in + order. I hope in God, this article will be rectified before the new + constitution is accepted. You ask me, if any thing transpires here on the + subject of South America? Not a word. I know that there are combustible + materials there, and that they wait the torch only. But this country + probably will join the extinguishers. The want of facts worth + communicating to you, has occasioned me to give a little loose to + dissertation. We must be contented to amuse, when we cannot inform. + </p> + <p> + Present my respects to Mrs. Smith, and be assured of the sincere esteem + of, Dear Sir, your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0117" id="link2H_4_0117"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXV.—TO WILLIAM CARMICHAEL, December 11, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO WILLIAM CARMICHAEL. + </p> + <p> + Paris, December 11, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I am later in acknowledging the receipt of your favors of October the + 15th, and November the 5th and 15th, because we have been long expecting a + packet, which I hoped would bring communications worth detailing to you; + and she arrived only a few days ago, after a very long passage indeed. I + am very sorry you have not been able to make out the cipher of my letter + of September the 25th, because it contained things which I wished you to + know at that time. They have lost now a part of their merit; * but still I + wish you could decipher them, as there remains a part, which it might yet + be agreeable to you to understand. I have examined the cipher, from which + it was written. It as precisely a copy of those given to Messrs. Barclay + and Lambe. In order that you may examine whether yours corresponds, I will + now translate into cipher, the three first lines of my letter of June the + 14th. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + This will serve to show, whether your cipher corresponds with mine, as + well as my manner of using it. But I shall not use it in future, till I + know from you the result of your re-examination of it. I have the honor + now, to return you the letter you had been so good as to enclose to me. + About the same time of Liston’s conversation with you, similar ones were + held with me by Mr. Eden. He particularly questioned me on the effect of + our treaty with France, in the case of a war, and what might be our + dispositions. I told him without hesitation, that our treaty obliged us to + receive the armed vessels of France, with their prizes, into our ports, + and to refuse the admission of prizes made on her by her enemies; that + there was a clause by which we guarantied to France her American + possessions, and which might, perhaps, force us into the war, if these + were attacked. ‘Then it will be war,’ said he, ‘for they will assuredly be + attacked.’ I added, that our dispositions would be to be neutral, and that + I thought it the interest of both those powers that we should be so, + because it would relieve both from all anxiety as to the feeding their + West India islands, and England would, moreover, avoid a heavy land war on + our continent, which would cripple all her proceedings elsewhere. He + expected these sentiments from me personally, and he knew them to be + analogous to those of our country. We had often before had occasions of + knowing each other: his peculiar bitterness towards us had sufficiently + appeared, and I had never concealed from him, that I considered the + British as our natural enemies, and as the only nation on earth, who + wished us ill from the bottom of their souls. And I am satisfied, that + were our continent to be swallowed up by the ocean, Great Britain would be + in a bonfire from one end to the other. Mr. Adams, as you know, has asked + his recall. This has been granted, and Colonel Smith is to return too; + Congress having determined to put an end to their commission at that + court. I suspect and hope they will make no new appointment. + </p> + <p> + Our new constitution is powerfully attacked in the American newspapers. + The objections are, that its effect would be to form the thirteen States + into one; that, proposing to melt all down into one general government, + they have fenced the people by no declaration of rights; they have not + renounced the power of keeping a standing army; they have not secured the + liberty of the press; they have reserved the power of abolishing trials by + jury in civil cases; they have proposed that the laws of the federal + legislatures shall be paramount the laws and constitutions of the States; + they have abandoned rotation in office; and particularly their President + may be re-elected from four years to four years, for life, so as to render + him a King for life, like a King of Poland; and they have not given him + either the check or aid of a council. To these, they add calculations of + expense, &c. &.c. to frighten the people. You will perceive that + those objections are serious and some of them not without foundation. The + constitution, however, has been received with a very general enthusiasm, + and as far as can be judged from external demonstrations, the bulk of the + people are eager to adopt it. In the eastern States, the printers will + print nothing against it, unless the writer subscribes his name. + Massachusetts and Connecticut have called conventions in January, to + consider of it. In New York, there is a division. The Governor (Clinton) + is known to be hostile to it. Jersey, it is thought, will certainly accept + it. Pennsylvania is divided; and all the bitterness of her factions has + been kindled anew on it. But the party in favor of it is strongest, both + in and out of the legislature. This is the party anciently of Morris, + Wilson, &c., Delaware will do what Pennsylvania shall do. Maryland is + thought favorable to it; yet it is supposed Chase and Paca will oppose it. + As to Virginia, two of her Delegates, in the first place, refused to sign + it. These were Randolph, the Governor, and George Mason. Besides these, + Henry, Harrison, Nelson, and the Lees are against it. General Washington + will be for it, but it is not in his character to exert himself much in + the case. Madison will be its main pillar; but though an immensely + powerful one, it is questionable whether he can bear the weight of such a + host. So that the presumption is, that Virginia will reject it. We know + nothing of the dispositions of the States south of this. Should it fall + through, as is possible, notwithstanding the enthusiasm with which it was + received in the first moment, it is probable that Congress will propose, + that, the objections which the people shall make to it being once known, + another convention shall be assembled, to adopt the improvements generally + acceptable, and omit those found disagreeable. In this way, union may be + produced under a happy constitution, and one which shall not be too + energetic, as are the constitutions of Europe. I give you these details, + because, possibly, you may not have received them all. The sale of our + western lands is immensely successful. Five millions of acres have been + sold at private sale, for a dollar an acre, in certificates; and at the + public sales, some of them had sold as high as two dollars and forty cents + the acre. The sales had not been begun two months. By these means, taxes, + &c. our domestic debt, originally twenty-eight millions of dollars, + was reduced, by the 1st day of last October, to twelve millions, and they + were then in treaty-for two millions of acres more, at a dollar, private + sale. Our domestic debt will thus be soon paid off, and that done, the + sales will go on for money, at a cheaper rate, no doubt, for the payment + of our foreign debt. The <i>petite guerre</i>, always waged by the + Indians, seems not to abate the ardor of purchase or emigration. Kentucky + is now counted at sixty thousand. Frankland is also growing fast. + </p> + <p> + I have been told, that the cutting through the Isthmus of Panama, which + the world has so often wished, and supposed practicable, has at times been + thought of by the government of Spain, and that they once proceeded so + far, as to have a survey and examination made of the ground; but that the + result was, either impracticability or too great difficulty. Probably the + Count de Campomanes, or Don Ulloa, can give you information on this head. + I should be exceedingly pleased to get as minute details as possible on + it, and even copies of the survey, report, &c. if they could be + obtained at a moderate expense. I take the liberty of asking your + assistance in this. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with great respect and esteem, Sir, your most + obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0118" id="link2H_4_0118"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXVI.—TO JOHN ADAMS + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN ADAMS. + </p> + <p> + Paris, December 12, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + In the month of July, I received from Fiseaux & Co. of Amsterdam, a + letter notifying me that the principal of their loan to the United States + would become due the first day of January. I answered them that I had + neither powers nor information on the subject, but would transmit their + letter to the board of treasury. I did so, by the packet which sailed from + Havre, August the 10th. The earliest answer possible would have been by + the packet which arrived at Havre three or four days ago. But by her I do + not receive the scrip of a pen from any body. This makes me suppose, that + my letters are committed to Paul Jones, who was to sail a week after the + departure of the packet; and that possibly, he may be the bearer of orders + from the treasury, to repay Fiseaux’ loan, with the money you borrowed. + But it is also possible, he may bring no order on the subject. The + slowness with which measures are adopted on our side the water, does not + permit us to count on punctual answers; but, on the contrary, renders it + necessary for us to suppose, in the present case, that no orders will + arrive in time, and to consider whether any thing, and what, should be + done. As it may be found expedient to transfer all our foreign debts to + Holland, by borrowing there, and as it may always be prudent to preserve a + good credit in that country, because we may be forced into wars, whether + we will or not, I should suppose it very imprudent to suffer our credit to + be annihilated, for so small a sum as fifty-one thousand guelders. The + injury will be greater too, in proportion to the smallness of the sum; for + they will ask, ‘How can a people be trusted for large sums, who break + their faith for such small ones?’ You know best what effect it will have + on the minds of the money-lenders of that country, should we fail in this + payment. You know best also, whether it is practicable and prudent for us, + to have this debt paid without orders. I refer the matter, therefore, + wholly to your consideration, willing to participate with you in any risk + and any responsibility, which may arise. I think it one of those cases, + where it is a duty to risk one’s self. You will perceive, by the enclosed, + the necessity of an immediate answer, and that, if you think any thing can + and should be done, all the necessary authorities from you should + accompany your letter. In the mean time, should I receive any orders from + the treasury by Paul Jones, I will pursue them, and consider whatever you + shall have proposed or done, as <i>non avenue</i>. + </p> + <p> + I am, with much affection, Dear Sir, your most obedient and most humble + servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0119" id="link2H_4_0119"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXVII.—TO JAMES MADISON, December 20, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO JAMES MADISON. + </p> + <p> + Paris, December 20, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + My last to you was of October the 8th, by the Count de Moustier. Yours of + July the 18th, September the 6th, and October the 24th, were successively + received, yesterday, the day before, and three or four days before that. I + have only had time to read the letters; the printed papers communicated + with them, however interesting, being obliged to lie over till I finish my + despatches for the packet, which despatches must go from hence the day + after to-morrow. I have much to thank you for; first and most for the + ciphered paragraph respecting myself. These little informations are very + material towards forming my own decisions. I would be glad even to know, + when any individual member thinks I have gone wrong in any instance. If I + know myself, it would not excite ill blood in me, while it would assist to + guide my conduct, perhaps to justify it, and to keep me to my duty, alert. + I must thank you too, for the information in Thomas Burke’s case; though + you will have found by a subsequent letter, that I have asked of you a + further investigation of that matter. It is to gratify the lady who is at + the head of the convent wherein my daughters are, and who, by her + attachment and attention to them, lays me under great obligations, I shall + hope, therefore, still to receive from you the result of all the further + inquiries my second letter had asked. The parcel of rice which you + informed me had miscarried, accompanied my letter to the Delegates of + South Carolina. Mr. Bourgoin was to be the bearer of both, and both were + delivered together into the hands of his relation here, who introduced him + to me, and who, at a subsequent moment, undertook to convey them to Mr. + Bourgoin. This person was an engraver, particularly recommended to Dr. + Franklin and Mr. Hopkinson. Perhaps he may have mislaid the little parcel + of rice among his baggage. I am much pleased, that the sale of western + lands is so successful. I hope they will absorb all the certificates of + our domestic debt speedily, in the first place, and that then, offered for + cash, they will do the same by our foreign ones. + </p> + <p> + The season admitting only of operations in the cabinet, and these being in + a great measure secret, I have little to fill a letter, I will therefore + make up the deficiency, by adding a few words on the constitution proposed + by our convention. + </p> + <p> + I like much the general idea of framing a government, which should go on + of itself, peaceably, without needing continual recurrence to the State + legislatures. I like the organization of the government into legislative, + judiciary, and executive. I like the power given the legislature to levy + taxes, and for that reason solely, I approve of the greater House being + chosen by the people directly. For though I think a House, so chosen, will + be very far inferior to the present Congress, will be very illy qualified + to legislate for the Union, for foreign nations, &c.; yet this evil + does not weigh against the good of preserving inviolate the fundamental + principle, that the people are not to be taxed but by representitives[sp.] + chosen immediately by themselves. I am captivated by the compromise of the + opposite claims of the great and little States, of the latter to equal, + and the former to proportional influence. I am much pleased, too, with the + substitution of the method of voting by persons, instead of that of voting + by States: and I like the negative given to the Executive, conjointly with + a third of either House; though I should have liked it better, had the + judiciary been associated for that purpose, or invested separately with a + similar power. There are other good things of less moment. + </p> + <p> + I will now tell you what I do not like. First, the omission of a bill of + rights, providing clearly, and without the aid of sophism, for freedom of + religion, freedom of the press, protection against standing armies, + restriction of monopolies, the eternal and unremitting force of the <i>habeas + corpus</i> laws, and trials by jury in all matters of fact triable by the + laws of the land, and not by the laws of nations. To say, as Mr. Wilson + does, that a bill of rights was not necessary, because all is reserved in + the case of the general government which is not given, while in the + particular ones, all is given which is not reserved, might do for the + audience to which it was addressed: but it is surely a <i>gratis dictum</i>, + the reverse of which might just as well be said; and it is opposed by + strong inferences from the body of the instrument, as well as from the + omission of the clause of our present Confederation, which had made the + reservation in express terms. It was hard to conclude, because there has + been a want of uniformity among the States as to the cases triable by + jury, because some have been so incautious as to dispense with this mode + of trial in certain cases, therefore the more prudent States shall be + reduced to the same level of calamity. It would have been much more just + and wise to have concluded the other way, that as most of the States had + preserved with jealousy this sacred palladium of liberty, those who had + wandered, should be brought back to it: and to have established general + right rather than general wrong. For I consider all the ill as + established, which maybe established. I have a right to nothing, which + another has a right to take away; and Congress will have a right to take + away trials by jury in all civil cases. Let me add, that a bill of rights + is what the people are entitled to against every government on earth, + general or particular; and what no just government should refuse, or rest + on inference. + </p> + <p> + The second feature I dislike, and strongly dislike, is the abandonment, in + every instance, of the principle of rotation in office, and most + particularly in the case of the President. Reason and experience tell us, + that the first magistrate will always be re-elected if he may be + re-elected. He is then an officer for life. + </p> + <p> + This once observed, it becomes of so much consequence to certain nations, + to have a friend or a foe at the head of our affairs, that they will + interfere with money and with arms. A Galloman, or an Angloman, will be + supported by the nation he befriends. If once elected, and at a second or + third election outvoted by one or two votes, he will pretend false votes, + foul play, hold possession of the reins of government, be supported by the + States voting for him, especially if they be the central ones, lying in a + compact body themselves, and separating their opponents; and they will be + aided by one nation in Europe, while the majority are aided by another. + The election of a President of America, some years hence, will be much + more interesting to certain nations of Europe, than ever the election of a + King of Poland was. Reflect on all the instances in history, ancient and + modern, of elective monarchies, and say, if they do not give foundation + for my fears; the Roman Emperors, the Popes while they were of any + importance, the German Emperors till they became hereditary in practice, + the Kings of Poland, the Deys of the Ottoman dependencies. It may be said, + that if elections are to be attended with these disorders, the less + frequently they are repeated the better. But experience says, that to free + them from disorder, they must be rendered less interesting by a necessity + of change. No foreign power, nor domestic party, will waste their blood + and money to elect a person, who must go out at the end of a short period. + The power of removing every fourth year by the vote of the people, is a + power which they will not exercise, and if they were disposed to exercise + it, they would not be permitted. The King of Poland is removable every day + by the diet. But they never remove him. Nor would Russia, the Emperor, + &c. permit them to do it. Smaller objections are, the appeals on + matters of fact as well as law; and the binding all persons, legislative, + executive, and judiciary, by oath, to maintain that constitution. I do not + pretend to decide, what would be the best method of procuring the + establishment of the manifold good things in this constitution, and of + getting rid of the bad. Whether by adopting it, in hopes of future + amendment; or, after it shall have been duly weighed and canvassed by the + people, after seeing the parts they generally dislike, and those they + generally approve, to say to them, ‘We see now what you wish. You are + willing to give to your federal government such and such powers: but you + wish, at the same time, to have such and such fundamental rights secured + to you, and certain sources of convulsion taken away. Be it so. Send + together your deputies again. Let them establish your fundamental rights + by a sacrosanct declaration, and let them pass the parts of the + constitution you have approved. These will give powers to your federal + government sufficient for your happiness.’ This is what might be said, and + would probably produce a speedy, more perfect, and more permanent form of + government. At all events, I hope you will not be discouraged from making + other trials, if the present one should fail. We are never permitted to + despair of the commonwealth. I have thus told you freely what I like, and + what I dislike, merely as a matter of curiosity; for I know it is not in + my power to offer matter of information to your judgment, which has been + formed after hearing and weighing every thing which the wisdom of man + could offer on these subjects. I own, I am not a friend to a very + energetic government. It is always oppressive. It places the governors + indeed more at their ease, at the expense of the people. The late + rebellion in Massachusetts has given more alarm, than I think it should + have done. Calculate that one rebellion in thirteen States in the course + of eleven years, is but one for each State in a century and a half. No + country should be so long without one. Nor will any degree of power in the + hands of government prevent insurrections. In England, where the hand of + power is heavier than with us, there are seldom half a dozen years without + an insurrection. In France, Where it is still heavier, but less despotic, + as Montesquieu supposes, than in some other countries, and where there are + always two or three hundred thousand men ready to crush insurrections, + there have been three in the course of the three years I have been here, + in every one of which greater numbers were engaged than in Massachusetts, + and a great deal more blood was spilt. In Turkey, where the sole nod of + the despot is death, insurrections are the events of every day. Compare + again the ferocious depredations of their insurgents, with the order, the + moderation, and the almost self-extinguishment of ours. And say, finally, + whether peace is best preserved by giving energy to the government, or + information to the people. This last is the most certain and the most + legitimate engine of government. Educate and inform the whole mass of the + people. Enable them to see that it is their interest to preserve peace and + order, and they will preserve them. And it requires no very high degree of + education to convince them of this. They are the only sure reliance for + the preservation of our liberty. After all, it is my principle that the + will of the majority should prevail. If they approve the proposed + constitution in all its parts, I shall concur in it cheerfully, in hopes + they will amend it, whenever they shall find it works wrong. This reliance + cannot deceive us, as long as we remain virtuous; and I think we shall be + so, as long as agriculture is our principal object, which will be the + case, while there remain vacant lands in any part of America. When we get + piled upon one another in large cities, as in Europe, we shall become + corrupt as in Europe, and go to eating one another as they do there. I + have tired you by this time with disquisitions which you have already + heard repeated by others, a thousand and a thousand times; and, therefore, + shall only add assurances of the esteem and attachment, with which I have + the honor to be, Dear Sir, your affectionate friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + P. S. The instability of our laws is really an immense evil. I think it + would be well to provide in our constitutions, that there shall always be + a twelvemonth between the engrossing a bill and passing it: that it should + then be offered to its passage without changing a word: and that if + circumstances should be thought to require a speedier passage, it should + take two thirds of both Houses, instead of a bare majority. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0120" id="link2H_4_0120"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXVIII.—TO E. CARRINGTON, December 21, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO E. CARRINGTON + </p> + <p> + Paris, December 21, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have just received your two favors of October the 23rd and November the + 10th. I am much obliged to you for your hints in the Danish business. They + are the only information I have on that subject, except the resolution of + Congress, and warn me of a rock on which I should most certainly have + split. The vote plainly points out an agent, only leaving it to my + discretion to substitute another. My judgment concurs with that of + Congress as to his fitness. But I shall inquire for the surest banker at + Copenhagen to receive the money, not because I should have had any doubts, + but because I am informed others have them. Against the failure of a + banker, were such an accident, or any similar one to happen, I cannot be + held accountable in a case, where I act without particular interest. My + principal idea in proposing the transfer of the French debt, was, to + obtain on the new loans a much longer day for the reimbursement of the + principal, hoping that the resources of the United States could have been + equal to the article of interest alone. But I shall endeavor to quiet, as + well as I can, those interested. A part of them will probably sell out at + any rate: and one great claimant may be expected to make a bitter attack + on our honor. I am very much pleased to hear, that our western lands sell + so successfully. I turn to this precious resource, as that which will, in + every event, liberate us from our domestic debt, and perhaps too from our + foreign one: and this, much sooner than I had expected. I do not think any + thing could have been done with them in Europe. Individual speculators and + sharpers had duped so many with their unlocated land-warrants, that every + offer would have been suspected. + </p> + <p> + As to the new constitution, I find myself nearly a neutral. There is a + great mass of good in it, in a very desirable form; but there is also, to + me, a bitter pill or two. I have written somewhat lengthily to Mr. Madison + on this subject, and will take the liberty to refer you to that part of my + letter to him. I will add one question to what I have said there. Would it + not have been better to assign to Congress exclusively, the article of + imposts for federal purposes, and to have left direct taxation exclusively + to the States? I should suppose the former fund sufficient for all + probable events, aided by the land office. + </p> + <p> + The form which the affairs of Europe may assume, is not yet decipherable + by those out of the cabinet. The Emperor gives himself, at present, the + airs of a mediator. This is necessary to justify a breach with the Porte. + He has his eye at the same time on Germany, and particularly on Bavaria, + the Elector of which has, for a long time, been hanging over the grave. + Probably, France would now consent to the exchange of the Austrian + Netherlands, to be created into a kingdom for the Duke de Deux-ponts, + against the electorate of Bavaria. This will require a war. The Empress + longs for Turkey, and viewing France as her principal obstacle, would + gladly negotiate her acquiescence. To spur on this, she is coquetting it + with England. The King of Prussia, too, is playing a double game between + France and England. But I suppose the former incapable of forgiving him, + or of ever reposing confidence in him. Perhaps the spring may unfold to us + the final arrangement, which will take place among the powers of this + continent. + </p> + <p> + I often doubt whether I should trouble Congress or my friends with these + details of European politics. I know they do not excite that interest in + America, of which it is impossible for one to divest himself here. I know + too, that it is a maxim with us, and I think it is a wise one, not to + entangle ourselves with the affairs of Europe. Still, I think, we should + know them. The Turks have practised the same maxim of not meddling in the + complicated wrangles of this continent. But they have unwisely chosen to + be ignorant of them also, and it is this total ignorance of Europe, its + combinations, and its movements, which exposes them to that annihilation + possibly about taking place. While there are powers in Europe which fear + our views, or have views on us, we should keep an eye on them, their + connections, and oppositions, that in a moment of need, we may avail + ourselves of their weakness with respect to others as well as ourselves, + and calculate their designs and movements, on all the circumstances under + which they exist. Though I am persuaded, therefore, that these details are + read by many with great indifference, yet I think it my duty to enter into + them, and to run the risk of giving too much, rather than too little + information. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with perfect esteem and respect, Dear Sir, your + most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + P. S. The resolution of Congress, relative to the prize money received + here, speaks of that money as paid to me. I hope this matter is properly + understood. The treasury board desired me to receive it, and apply it to + such and such federal purposes; and they would pay the dividends of the + claimants in America. This would save the expense of remittance. I + declined, however, receiving the money, and ordered it into the hands of + their banker, who paid it away for the purposes to which they had destined + it. I should be sorry an idea should get abroad, that I had received the + money of those poor fellows, and applied it to other purposes. I shall, in + like manner, order the Danish and Barbary money into the hands of bankers, + carefully avoiding ever to touch a sou of it, or having any other account + to make out than what the banker will furnish. T. J. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0121" id="link2H_4_0121"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXIX.—TO MONSIEUR LIMOZIN, December 22, 1787 + </h2> + <p> + TO MONSIEUR LIMOZIN. + </p> + <p> + Paris, December 22, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have the honor now to acknowledge the receipt of your favors of the 18th + and 19th of November, and two of the 18th of the present month. I did not + write to you immediately on the receipt of the two first, because the + observation they contained were to be acted on here. I was much obliged to + you for them, as I have been frequently before for others, and you will + find that I have profited by them in the <i>ArrĂŞt</i> which is to come out + for the regulation of our commerce, wherein most of the things are + provided for, which you have from time to time recommended. With respect + to the article of yellow wax, I think there is a general clause in the <i>ArrĂŞt</i>, + which will take it in; but I am not sure of it. If there be not, it is now + too late to get any alteration made. You shall receive the <i>ArrĂŞt</i> + the moment it is communicated to me. + </p> + <p> + I have examined the case of Captain Thomas, with all the dispositions + possible, to interpose for him. But on mature reflection, I find it is one + of those cases wherein my solicitation would be ill received. The + government of France, to secure to its subjects the carrying trade between + her colonies and the mother country, have made a law, forbidding any + foreign vessels to undertake to carry between them. Notwithstanding this, + an American vessel has undertaken, and has brought a cargo. For me to ask + that this vessel shall be received, would be to ask a repeal of the law, + because there is no more reason for receiving her, than there will be for + receiving the second, third, &c, which shall act against the same law, + nor for receiving an American vessel, more than the vessels of other + nations. Captain Thomas has probably engaged in this business, not knowing + the law; but ignorance of the law is no excuse, in any country. If it + were, the laws would lose their effect, because it can be always + pretended. Were I to make this application to the Comptroller General, he + might possibly ask me, whether, in a like case, of a French vessel in + America acting through ignorance, against law, we would suspend the law as + to her? I should be obliged honestly to answer, that with us there is no + power which can suspend the law for a moment; and Captain Thomas knows + that this answer would be the truth. The Senegal company seems to be as + much engaged in it as he is. I should suppose his most probable means of + extrication, would be with their assistance, and availing himself of their + privileges, and the apparent authority he has received from the officers + of government there. I am sorry his case is such a one, as I cannot + present to the minister. A jealousy of our taking away their carrying + trade, is the principal reason which obstructs our admission into their + West India islands. It would not be right for me to strengthen that + jealousy. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with much esteem, Sir, your most obedient, humble + servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0122" id="link2H_4_0122"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXX.—TO JOHN JAY, December 31, 1787 + </h2> + <h3> + TO JOHN JAY. + </h3> + <p> + Paris, December 31, 1787. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + Since the receipt of the letter of Monsieur de Calonne, of October the + 22nd, 1786, I have several times had the honor of mentioning to you, that + I was endeavoring to get the substance of that letter reduced into an <i>ArrĂŞt</i>, + which, instead of being revocable by a single letter of a Comptroller + General, would require an <i>ArrĂŞt</i> to repeal or alter it, and of + course must be discussed in full Council, and so give time to prevent it. + This has been pressed as much as it could be with prudence. One cause of + delay has been the frequent changes of the Comptroller General; as we had + always our whole work to begin again, with every new one. Monsieur + Lambert’s continuance in office for some months has enabled us, at length, + to get through the business; and I have just received from him a letter, + and the <i>ArrĂŞt</i> duly authenticated; of which I have the honor to send + you a number of printed copies. You will find, that the several + alterations and additions are made, which, on my visit, to the seaports, I + had found to be necessary, and which my letters of June the 21st and + August the 6th particularly mentioned to you. Besides these, we have + obtained some new articles of value, for which openings arose in the + course of the negotiation. I say we have done it, because the Marquis de + la Fayette has gone hand in hand with me through this business, and has + been a most invaluable aid. I take the liberty of making some observations + on the articles of the <i>ArrĂŞt</i>, severally, for their explanation, as + well as for the information of Congress. + </p> + <p> + Article 1. In the course of our conferences with the Comptroller General, + we had prevailed on him to pass this article with a suppression of all + duty. When he reported the <i>ArrĂŞt</i>, however, to the Council, this + suppression was objected to, and it was insisted to re-establish the + duties of seven livres and ten sous, and of ten sous the livre, reserved + in the letter of M. de Calonne. The passage of the <i>ArrĂŞt</i> was + stopped, and the difficulty communicated to me. I urged every thing I + could, in letters and in conferences, to convince them that whale-oil was + an article which could bear no duty at all. That if the duty fell on the + consumer, he would choose to buy vegetable oils; if on the fisherman, he + could no longer live by his calling, remaining in his own country; and + that if he quitted his own country, the circumstances of vicinity, + sameness of language, laws, religion, and manners, and perhaps the ties of + kindred, would draw him to Nova Scotia, in spite of every encouragement + which could be given at Dunkirk; and that thus those fishermen would be + shifted out of a scale friendly to France, into one always hostile. + Nothing, however, could prevail. It hung on this article alone, for two + months, during which we risked the total loss of the <i>ArrĂŞt</i> on the + stability in office of Monsieur Lambert; for if he had gone out, his + successor might be less favorable; and if Monsieur Necker were the + successor, we might lose the whole, as he never set any store by us, or + the connection with us. About ten days ago, it became universally believed + that Monsieur Lambert was to go out immediately. I therefore declined + further insisting on the total suppression, and desired the <i>ArrĂŞt</i> + might pass, leaving the duties on whale-oil, as Monsieur de Calonne had + promised them; but with a reservation, which may countenance our bringing + on this matter again, at a more favorable moment. + </p> + <p> + Article 2. The other fish-oils are placed in a separate article; because, + whatever encouragements we may hereafter obtain for whale-oils, they will + not be extended to those which their own fisheries produce. + </p> + <p> + Article 3. A company had silently, and by unfair means, obtained a + monopoly for the making and selling spermaceti candles: as soon as we + discovered it, we solicited its suppression, which is effected by this + clause. + </p> + <p> + Article 4. The duty of an eighth per cent, is merely to oblige the masters + of vessels to enter their cargoes, for the information of government; + without inducing them to attempt to smuggle. + </p> + <p> + Article 6. Tar, pitch, and turpentine of America, coming in competition + with the same articles produced in the southwestern parts of France, we + could obtain no greater reduction, than two and a half per cent. The + duties before were from four to six times that amount. + </p> + <p> + Article 10. The right of <i>entrepĂ´t</i>, given by this article, is almost + the same thing, as the making all their ports, free ports for us. The + ships are indeed subject to be visited, and the cargoes must be reported + in ports of <i>entrepĂ´t</i>, which need not be done in the free ports. But + the communication between the <i>entrepĂ´t</i> and the country is not + interrupted by continual search of all persons passing into the country, + which has proved so troublesome to the inhabitants of our free ports, as + that a considerable proportion of them have wished to give back the + privilege of their freedom. + </p> + <p> + Article 13. This article gives us the privileges and advantages of native + subjects, in all their possessions in Asia, and in the scales leading + thereto. This expression means, at present, the isles of France and + Bourbon, and will include the Cape of Good Hope, should any future event + put it into the hands of France. It was with a view to this, that I + proposed the expression, because we were then in hourly expectation of a + war, and it was suspected that France would take possession of that place. + It will, in no case, be considered as including any thing westward of the + Cape of Good Hope. I must observe further, on this article, that it will + only become valuable, on the suppression of their East India Company; + because, as long as their monopoly continues, even native subjects cannot + enter their Asiatic ports, for the purposes of commerce. It is considered, + however, as certain, that this Company will be immediately suppressed. + </p> + <p> + The article of tobacco could not be introduced into the <i>ArrĂŞt</i>; + because it was necessary to consider the Farmers General as parties to + that arrangement. It rests, therefore, of necessity, on the basis of a + letter only. You will perceive that this is nothing more than a + continuation of the order of Bernis, only leaving the prices unfixed; and + like that, it will require a constant and vexatious attention, to have its + execution enforced. + </p> + <p> + The States who have much to carry, and few carriers, will observe, + perhaps, that the benefits of these regulations are somewhat narrowed, by + confining them to articles brought hither in French or American bottoms. + But they will consider, that nothing in these instruments moves from us. + The advantages they hold out are all given by this country to us, and the + givers will modify their gifts as they please. I suppose it to be a + determined principle of this court not to suffer our carrying business, so + far as their consumption of our commodities extends, to become a nursery + for British seamen. Nor would this, perhaps, be advantageous to us, + considering the dispositions of the two nations towards us. The preference + which our shipping will obtain on this account, may counterpoise the + discouragements it experiences from the aggravated dangers of the Barbary + States. Nor is the idea unpleasing, which shows itself in various parts of + these papers, of naturalizing American bottoms, and American citizens in + France and in its foreign possessions. Once established here, and in their + eastern settlements, they may revolt less at the proposition to extend it + to those westward. They are not yet, however, at that point; we must be + contented to go towards it a step at a time, and trust to future events + for hastening our progress. + </p> + <p> + With respect to the alliance between this and the two imperial courts, + nothing certain transpires. We are enabled to conjecture its progress, + only from facts which now and then show themselves. The following may be + considered as indications of it. 1. The Emperor has made an attempt to + surprise Belgrade. The attempt failed, but will serve to plunge him into + the war, and to show that he had assumed the character of mediator, only + to enable himself to gain some advantage by surprise. 2. The mediation of + France is probably at an end, and their abandonment of the Turks agreed + on; because they have secretly ordered their officers to quit the Turkish + service. This fact is known to but few, and not intended to be known: but + I think it certain. 3. To the offer of mediation lately made by England + and Prussia, the court of Petersburg answered, that having declined the + mediation of a friendly power (France), she could not accept that of two + courts, with whose dispositions she had reason to be dissatisfied. 4. The + States General are said to have instructed their ambassador here, lately, + to ask of M. de Montmorin, whether the inquiry had been made, which they + had formerly desired; ‘By what authority the French engineers had been + placed in the service of Holland?’ And that he answered, that the inquiry + had not been made, nor should be made. Though I do not consider the + channel through which I get this fact, as absolutely sure, yet it is so + respectable, that I give credit to it myself. 5. The King of Prussia is + withdrawing his troops from Holland. Should this alliance show itself it + would seem that France, thus strengthened, might dictate the + re-establishment of the affairs of Holland, in her own form. For it is not + conceivable, that Prussia would dare to move, nor that England would alone + undertake such a war, and for such a purpose. She appears, indeed, + triumphant at present; but the question is, Who will triumph last? + </p> + <p> + I enclose you a letter from Mr. Dumas. I received one from him myself, + wherein he assures me, that no difficulties shall be produced, by what he + had suggested relative to his mission to Brussels. The gazettes of France + and Leyden to this date accompany this letter, which, with the several + papers put under your cover, I shall send to M. Limozin, our agent at + Havre, to be forwarded by the Juno, Captain Jenkins, which sails from that + port for New York, on the 3d of January. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect esteem and + respect, Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0123" id="link2H_4_0123"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXXI.—TO MONSIEUR LAMBERT, January 3, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO MONSIEUR LAMBERT. + </p> + <p> + Paris, January 3, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I am honored with your Excellency’s letter of the 29th of December, + enclosing the <i>ArrĂŞt</i> on the commerce between France and the United + States. I availed myself of the occasion of a vessel sailing this day from + Havre for New York, to forward it to Congress. They will receive with + singular satisfaction, this new testimony of his Majesty’s friendship for + the United States, of his dispositions to promote their interest, and to + strengthen the bands which connect the two nations. + </p> + <p> + Permit me, Sir, to return you, personally, my sincere thanks for the great + attention you have paid to this subject, for the sacrifices you have + kindly made of a time so precious as yours, every moment of which is + demanded and is occupied by objects interesting to the happiness of + millions; and to proffer you the homage of those sincere sentiments of + attachment and respect, with which I have the honor to be, your + Excellency’s most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0124" id="link2H_4_0124"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXXII.—TO LE COMTE BERNSTORFF, January 21, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO LE COMTE BERNSTORFF, <i>Minister of Foreign Affairs, Copenhagen</i>. + </p> + <p> + Paris, January 21, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I am instructed by the United States of America, in Congress assembled, to + bring again under the consideration of his Majesty, the King of Denmark, + and of his ministers, the case of the three prizes taken from the English + during the late war, by an American squadron under the command of + Commodore Paul Jones, put into Bergen in distress, there rescued from our + possession by orders from the court of Denmark, and delivered back to the + English. Dr. Franklin, then Minister Plenipotentiary from the United + States at the court of Versailles, had the honor of making applications to + the court of Denmark, for a just indemnification to the persons + interested, and particularly by a letter of the 22nd of December, 1779, a + copy of which I have now the honor of enclosing to your Excellency. In + consequence of this, the sum of ten thousand pounds was proposed to him, + as an indemnification, through the Baron de Waltersdorff, then at Paris. + The departure of both those gentlemen from this place, soon after, + occasioned an intermission in the correspondence on this subject. But the + United States continue to be very sensibly affected by this delivery of + their prizes to Great Britain, and the more so, as no part of their + conduct had forfeited their claim to those rights of hospitality, which + civilized nations extend to each other. Not only a sense of justice due to + the individuals interested in those prizes, but also an earnest desire + that no subject of discontent may check the cultivation and progress of + that friendship, which they wish may subsist and increase between the two + countries, prompt them to remind his Majesty of the transaction in + question; and they flatter themselves, that his Majesty will concur with + them in thinking, that as restitution of the prizes is not practicable, it + is reasonable and just that he should render, and that they should accept, + a compensation equivalent to the value of them. And the same principles of + justice towards the parties, and of amity to the United States, which + influenced the breast of his Majesty to make, through the Baron de + Waltersdorff, the proposition of a particular sum, will surely lead him to + restore their full value, if that were greater, as is believed, than the + sum proposed. In order to obtain, therefore, a final arrangement of this + demand, Congress have authorized me to depute a special agent to + Copenhagen, to attend the pleasure of his Majesty. No agent could be so + adequate to this business, as the Commodore Paul Jones, who commanded the + squadron which took the prizes. He will therefore have the honor of + delivering this letter to your Excellency, in person; of giving such + information as may be material, relative to the whole transaction; of + entering into conferences for its final adjustment; and being himself + principally interested, not only in his own right, but as the natural + patron of those who fought under him, whatever shall be satisfactory to + him, will have a great right to that ultimate approbation, which Congress + have been pleased to confide to me. + </p> + <p> + I beg your Excellency to accept the homage of that respect, which your + exalted station, talents, and merit impress, as well as those sentiments + of esteem and regard, with which I have the honor to be + </p> + <p> + Your Excellency’s most obedient + </p> + <p> + and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0125" id="link2H_4_0125"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXXIII.—TO WILLIAM RUTLEDGE, February 2, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO WILLIAM RUTLEDGE. + </p> + <p> + Paris, February 2, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I should have sooner answered your favor of January the 2nd, but that we + have expected for some time, to see you here. I beg you not to think of + the trifle I furnished you with, nor to propose to return it, till you + shall have that sum more than you know what to do with. And on every other + occasion of difficulty, I hope you will make use of me freely. I presume + you will now remain at London, to see the trial of Hastings. Without + suffering yourself to be imposed on by the pomp in which it will be + enveloped, I would recommend to you to consider and decide for yourself + these questions. If his offence is to be decided by the law of the land, + why is he not tried in that court in which his fellow citizens are tried, + that is, the King’s Bench? If he is cited before another court, that he + may be judged, not according to the law of the land, but by the discretion + of his judges, is he not disfranchised of his most precious right, the + benefit of the laws of his country, in common with his fellow citizens? I + think you will find, in investigating this subject, that every solid + argument is against the extraordinary court, and that every one in its + favor is specious only. It is a transfer from a judicature of learning and + integrity, to one, the greatness of which is both illiterate and + unprincipled. Yet such is the force of prejudice with some, and of the + want of reflection in others, that many of our constitutions have copied + this absurdity, without suspecting it to be one. I am glad to hear that + our new constitution is pretty sure of being accepted by States enough to + secure the good it contains, and to meet with such opposition in some + others, as to give us hopes it will be accommodated to them, by the + amendment of its most glaring faults, particularly the want of a + declaration of rights. + </p> + <p> + The long expected edict for the Protestants at length appears here. Its + analysis is this. It is an acknowledgment (hitherto withheld by the laws) + that Protestants can beget children, and that they can die, and be + offensive unless buried. It does not give them permission to think, to + speak, or to worship. It enumerates the humiliations to which they shall + remain subject, and the burthens to which they shall continue to be + unjustly exposed. What are we to think of the condition of the human mind + in a country, where such a wretched thing as this has thrown the State + into convulsions, and how must we bless our own situation in a country, + the most illiterate peasant of which is a Solon, compared with the authors + of this law. There is modesty often, which does itself injury; our + countrymen possess this. They do not know their own superiority. You see + it; you are young, you have time and talents to correct them. Study the + subject while in Europe, in all the instances which will present + themselves to you, and profit your countrymen of them, by making them to + know and value themselves. + </p> + <p> + Adieu, my dear Sir, and be assured of the esteem with which I am your + friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0126" id="link2H_4_0126"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXXIV.—TO THE COMMISSIONERS OF THE TREASURY, Feb. 7, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO THE COMMISSIONERS OF THE TREASURY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, February 7, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Gentlemen, + </p> + <p> + Your favors of November the 10th and 13th, and December the 5th, have been + duly received. Commodore Jones left this place for Copenhagen, the 5th + instant, to carry into execution the resolution of Congress, of October + the 25th. Whatever monies that court shall be willing to allow, shall be + remitted to your bankers, either in Amsterdam or Paris, as shall be found + most beneficial, allowing previously to be withdrawn Commodore Jones’s + proportion, which will be necessary for his subsistence. I desired him to + endeavor to prevail on the Danish minister, to have the money paid in + Amsterdam or Paris, by their banker in either of those cities, if they + have one. + </p> + <p> + M. Ast (secretary to the consulate) is at L’Orient. Whether he comes up + with the papers, or sends them, they shall be received, sealed up, and + taken care of. I will only ask the favor of you, that I may never be + desired to break the seals, unless very important cause for it should + arise. + </p> + <p> + I have just received from Messrs. Willincks and Van Staphorsts, a letter + of January the 31st, in which are these words: ‘The official communication + we have of the actual situation and prospect of the finances of the United + States, would render such a partial payment as that to Fiseaux’s house of + no avail towards the support of the public credit, unless effectual + measures shall be adopted, to provide funds for the two hundred and + seventy thousand florins, interest, that will be due the first of June + next; a single day’s retard in which would ground a prejudice of long + duration.’ They informed me, at the same time, that they have made to you + the following communication; that Mr. Stanitski, our principal broker, and + holder of thirteen hundred and forty thousand dollars, of certificates of + our domestic debt, offers to have our loan of a million of guilders (of + which six hundred and twenty-two thousand eight hundred and forty are + still unfilled) immediately made up, on condition that he may retain + thereout one hundred and eighty thousand guilders, being one year’s + interest on his certificates, allowing a deduction of ten per cent, from + his said interest, as a compensation for his receiving it in Amsterdam + instead of America, and not pretending that this shall give him any title + to ask any payment of future interest in Europe. They observe, that this + will enable them to face the demands of Dutch interest, till the 1st of + June, 1789, pay the principal of Fiseaux’ debt, and supply the current + expenses of your legation in Europe. On these points, it is for you to + decide. I will only take the liberty to observe, that if they shall + receive your acceptance of the proposition, some days credit will still be + to be given for producing the cash, and that this must be produced fifteen + days before it is wanting, because that much previous notice is always + given to the creditors, that their money is ready. It is, therefore, but + three months from this day, before your answer should be in Amsterdam. It + might answer a useful purpose also, could I receive a communication of + that answer ten days earlier than they. The same stagnation attending our + passage from the old to the new form of government, which stops the feeble + channel of money hitherto flowing towards our treasury, has suspended also + what foreign credit we had. So that, at this moment, we may consider the + progress of our loan as stopped. Though much an enemy to the system of + borrowing, yet I feel strongly the necessity of preserving the power to + borrow. Without this, we might be overwhelmed by another nation, merely by + the force of its credit. However, you can best judge whether the payment + of a single year’s interest on Stanitski’s certificates, in Europe, + instead of America, may be more injurious to us than the shock of our + credit in Amsterdam, which may be produced by a failure to pay our + interest. + </p> + <p> + I have only to offer any services which I can render in this business, + either here or by going to Holland, at a moment’s warning, if that should + be necessary. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect esteem and + respect, Gentlemen, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0127" id="link2H_4_0127"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXXV.—TO DOCTOR PRICE, February 7, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO DOCTOR PRICE. + </p> + <p> + Paris, February 7, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + It is rendering mutual service to men of virtue and understanding, to make + them acquainted with one another. I need no other apology for presenting + to your notice the bearer hereof, Mr. Barlow. I know you were among the + first who read the “Vision of Columbus,” while yet in manuscript: and + think the sentiments I heard you express of that poem, will induce you to + be pleased with the acquaintance of their author. He comes to pass a few + days only at London, merely to know something of it. As I have little + acquaintance there, I cannot do better for him than to ask you to be so + good as to make him known to such persons, as his turn and his time might + render desirable to him. + </p> + <p> + I thank you for the volume you were so kind as to send me some time ago. + Every thing you write is precious, and this volume is on the most precious + of all our concerns. We may well admit morality to be the child of the + understanding rather than of the senses, when we observe that it becomes + dearer to us as the latter weaken, and as the former grows stronger by + time and experience, till the hour arrives in which all other objects lose + all their value. That that hour may be distant with you, my friend, and + that the intermediate space may be filled with health and happiness, is + the sincere prayer of him who is, with sentiments of great respect and + friendship, Dear Sir, your most obedient, humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0128" id="link2H_4_0128"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXXVI.—TO A. DONALD, February.7, 1788 + </h2> + <h3> + TO A. DONALD. + </h3> + <p> + Paris, February.7, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I received duly your friendly letter of November the 12th. By this time, + you will have seen published by Congress, the new regulations obtained + from this court, in favor of our commerce. You will observe, that the + arrangement relative to tobacco is a continuation of the order of Berni + for five years, only leaving the price to be settled between the buyer and + seller. You will see too, that all contracts for tobacco are forbidden, + till it arrives in France. Of course, your proposition for a contract is + precluded. + </p> + <p> + I fear the prices here will be low, especially if the market be crowded. + You should be particularly attentive to the article, which requires that + the tobacco should come in French or American bottoms, as this article + will, in no instance, be departed from. + </p> + <p> + I wish with all my soul, that the nine first conventions may accept the + new constitution, because this will secure to us the good it contains, + which I think great and important. But I equally wish, that the four + latest conventions, which ever they be, may refuse to accede to it, till a + declaration of rights be annexed. This would probably command the offer of + such a declaration, and thus give to the whole fabric, perhaps, as much + perfection as any one of that kind ever had. By a declaration of rights, I + mean one which shall stipulate freedom of religion, freedom of the press, + freedom of commerce against monopolies, trial by juries in all cases, no + suspensions of the <i>habeas corpus</i>, no standing armies. These are + fetters against doing evil, which no honest government should decline. + There is another strong feature in the new constitution, which I as + strongly dislike. That is, the perpetual re-eligibility of the President. + Of this I expect no amendment at present, because I do not see that any + body has objected to it on your side the water. But it will be productive + of cruel distress to our country, even in your day and mine. The + importance to France and England, to have our government in the hands of a + friend or foe, will occasion their interference by money, and even by + arms. Our President will be of much more consequence to them than a King + of Poland. We must take care, however, that neither this, nor any other + objection to the new form, produces a schism in our Union. That would be + an incurable evil, because near friends falling out, never re-unite + cordially; whereas, all of us going together, we shall be sure to cure the + evils of our new constitution, before they do great harm. The box of books + I had taken the liberty to address to you, is but just gone from Havre for + New York. I do not see, at present, any symptoms strongly indicating war. + It is true, that the distrust existing between the two courts of + Versailles and London, is so great, that they can scarcely do business + together. However, the difficulty and doubt of obtaining money make both + afraid to enter into war. The little preparations for war, which we see, + are the effect of distrust, rather than of a design to commence + hostilities. And in such a state of mind, you know, small things may + produce a rupture: so that though peace is rather probable, war is very + possible. + </p> + <p> + Your letter has kindled all the fond recollections of ancient times; + recollections much dearer to me than any thing I have known since. There + are minds which can be pleased by honors and preferments; but I see + nothing in them but envy and enmity. It is only necessary to possess them, + to know how little they contribute to happiness, or rather how hostile + they are to it. No attachments soothe the mind so much as those contracted + in early life; nor do I recollect any societies which have given me more + pleasure, than those of which you have partaken with me. 1 had rather be + shut up in a very modest cottage, with my books, my family, and a few old + friends, dining on simple bacon, and letting the world roll on as it + liked, than to occupy the most splendid post, which any human power can + give. I shall be glad to hear from you often. Give me the small news as + well as the great. Tell Dr. Currie, that I believe I am indebted to him a + letter, but that like the mass of our countrymen, I am not, at this + moment, able to pay all my debts; the post being to depart in an hour, and + the last stroke of a pen I am able to send by it, being that which assures + you of the sentiments of esteem and attachment, with which I am, Dear Sir, + your affectionate friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0129" id="link2H_4_0129"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXXVII.—TO M. WARVILLE, February 12, 1888 + </h2> + <h3> + TO M. WARVILLE. + </h3> + <p> + Paris, February 12, 1888. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I am very sensible of the honor you propose to me, of becoming a member of + the society for the abolition of the slave-trade. You know that nobody + wishes more ardently, to see an abolition, not only of the trade, but of + the condition of slavery: and certainly nobody will be more willing to + encounter every sacrifice for that object. But the influence and + information of the friends to this proposition in France will be far above + the need of my association. I am here as a public servant, and those whom + I serve, having never yet been able to give their voice against the + practice, it is decent for me to avoid too public a demonstration of my + wishes to see it abolished. Without serving the cause here, it might + render me less able to serve it beyond the water. I trust you will be + sensible of the prudence of those motives, therefore, which govern my + conduct on this occasion, and be assured of my wishes for the success of + your undertaking, and the sentiments of esteem and respect, with which I + have the honor to be, Sir, your most obedient, humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0130" id="link2H_4_0130"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXXVIII.—TO JOHN ADAMS, March 2, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN ADAMS. + </p> + <p> + Paris, March 2, 1788.—Sunday. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I received this day, a letter from Mrs. Adams, of the 26th ultimo, + informing me you would set out on the 29th for the Hague. Our affairs at + Amsterdam press on my mind like a mountain. I have no information to go + on, but that of Willincks and Van Staphorsts, and according to that, + something seems necessary to be done. I am so anxious to confer with you + on this subject, and to see you and them together, and get some effectual + arrangement made in time, that I determine to meet you at the Hague. I + will set out the moment some repairs are made to my carriage: it is + promised me at three o’clock to-morrow; but probably they will make it + night, and that I may not set out till Tuesday morning. In that case, I + shall be at the Hague on Friday night: in the mean time, you will perhaps + have made all your bows there. I am sensible how irksome this must be to + you, in the moment of your departure. But it is a great interest of the + United States, which is at stake, and I am sure you will sacrifice to that + your feelings and your interest. I hope to shake you by the hand within + twenty-four hours after you receive this; and in the mean time, I am, with + much esteem and respect, Dear Sir, your affectionate friend and humble + servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0131" id="link2H_4_0131"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXXIX.—TO JOHN JAY, March 16, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Amsterdam, March 16, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + In a letter of the 13th instant, which I had the honor of addressing you + from this place, I mentioned in general terms, the object of my journey + hither, and that I should enter into more particular details, by the + confidential conveyance which would occur through Mr. Adams and Colonel + Smith. + </p> + <p> + The board of treasury had, in the month of December, informed me and our + bankers here, that it would be impossible for them to make any remittances + to Europe for the then ensuing year, and that they must, therefore, rely + altogether on the progress of the late loan. But this, in the mean time, + after being about one third filled, had ceased to get forward. The bankers + who had been referred to me for advice, by Mr. Adams, stated these + circumstances, and pressed their apprehension for the ensuing month of + June, when two hundred and seventy thousand florins would be wanting for + interest. In fine, they urged an offer of the holders of the former bonds, + to take all those remaining on hand, provided they might receive out of + them the interest on a part of our domestic debt, of which they had also + become the holders. This would have been one hundred and eighty thousand + florins. To this proposition, I could not presume any authority to listen. + Thus pressed between the danger of failure on one hand, and this + proposition on the other, I heard of Mr. Adams being gone to the Hague to + take leave. His knowledge of the subject was too valuable to be neglected + under the present difficulty, and it was the last moment in which we could + be availed of it. I set out immediately, therefore, for the Hague, and we + came on to this place together, in order to see what could be done. It was + easier to discover, than to remove, the causes which obstructed the + progress of the loan. Our affairs here, like those of other nations, are + in the hands of particular bankers. These employ particular, and they have + their particular circle of money-lenders. These moneylenders, as I have + before mentioned, while placing a part of their money in our foreign + loans, had at the same time employed another part in a joint speculation, + to the amount of eight hundred and forty thousand dollars, in our domestic + debt. A year’s interest was becoming due on this, and they wished to avail + themselves of our want of money for the foreign interest, to obtain + payment of the domestic. Our first object was to convince our bankers, + that there was no power on this side the Atlantic which could accede to + this proposition, or give it any countenance. They at length, therefore, + but with difficulty, receded from this ground, and agreed to enter into + conferences with the brokers and lenders, and to use every exertion to + clear the loan from the embarrassment in which this speculation had + engaged it. What will be the result of these conferences, is not yet + known. We have hopes, however, that it is not desperate, because the + bankers consented yesterday, to pay off the capital of fifty-one thousand + florins, which had become due on the first day of January, and which had + not yet been paid. We have gone still further. The treasury board gives no + hope of remittances, till the new government can procure them. For that + government to be adopted, its legislature assembled, its system of + taxation and collection arranged, the money gathered from the people into + the treasury, and then remitted to Europe, must extend considerably into + the year 1790. To secure our credit then, for the present year only, is + but to put off the evil day to the next. What remains of the last loan, + when it shall be filled up, will little more than clear us of present + demands, as may be seen by the estimate enclosed. We thought it better, + therefore, to provide at once for the years 1789 and 1790 also; and thus + to place the government at its ease, and her credit in security, during + that trying interval. The same estimate will show, that another million of + florins will be necessary to effect this. We stated this to our bankers, + who concurred in our views, and that to ask the whole sum at once would be + better than to make demands from time to time, so small, as that they + betray to the money-holders the extreme feebleness of our resources. Mr. + Adams, therefore, has executed bonds for another million of florins; + which, however, are to remain unissued till Congress shall have ratified + the measure that this transaction is something or nothing, at their + pleasure. We suppose its expediency so apparent, as to leave little doubt + of its ratification. In this case, much time will have been saved by the + execution of the bonds at this moment, and the proposition will be + presented here under a more favorable appearance, according to the opinion + of the bankers. Mr. Adams is under a necessity of setting out to-morrow + morning, but I shall stay two or three days longer, to attend to and + encourage the efforts of the bankers; though it is yet doubtful whether + they will ensure us a safe passage over the month of June. Not having my + letters here to turn to, I am unable to say whether the last I wrote, + mentioned the declaration of the Emperor that he should take part in the + war against the Turks. This declaration appeared a little before, or a + little after that letter, I do not recollect which. Some little + hostilities have taken place between them. The court of Versailles seems + to pursue immoveably its pacific system, and from every appearance in the + country from which I write, we must conclude that its tragedy is wound up. + The triumph appears complete, and tranquillity perfectly established. The + numbers who have emigrated are differently estimated, from twenty to forty + thousand. A little before I left Paris, I received a piece of + intelligence, which should be communicated, leaving you to lay what stress + on it, it may seem to deserve. Its authenticity may be surely relied on. + At the time of the late pacification, Spain had about fifteen ships of the + line nearly ready for sea. The convention for disarming did not extend to + her, nor did she disarm. This gave inquietude to the court of London, and + they demanded an explanation. One was given, they say, which is perfectly + satisfactory. The Russian minister at Versailles, getting knowledge of + this, became suspicious on his part. He recollected that Spain, during the + late war, had been opposed to the entrance of a Russian fleet into the + Mediterranean, and concluded, if England was not the object of this + armament, Russia might be. It is known that that power means to send a + fleet of about twenty-four ships into the Mediterranean this summer. He + sent to the Count de Montmorin, and expressed his apprehensions. The Count + de Montmorin declared, that the object of Spain in that armament was + totally different; that he was not sure she would succeed; but that France + and Spain were to be considered as one, and that the former would become + guarantee for the latter, that she would make no opposition to the Russian + fleet. If neither England nor Russia be the object, the question recurs, + Who is it for? You know best, if our affairs with Spain are in a situation + to give jealousy to either of us. I think it very possible, that the + satisfaction of the court of London may have been pretended or premature. + It is possible also, that the affairs of Spain in South America may + require them to assume a threatening appearance. I give you the facts, + however, and you will judge whether they are objects of attention or of + mere curiosity. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of sincere esteem and respect, + Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + P. S. I enclose herewith an extract of a letter from the Count de + Vergennes to the French ambassador at the Hague, which will make a + remarkable chapter in the history of the late revolution here. It is not + public, nor should be made so by us. Probably those who have been the + victims of it, will some day publish it. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0132" id="link2H_4_0132"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXXX.—TO MR. DUMAS, March 29, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO MR. DUMAS. + </p> + <p> + Amsterdam, March 29, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have now to acknowledge the receipt of your favors of the 14th, 18th, + and 23rd instant. I would have preferred doing it in person, but the + season, and the desire of seeing what I have not yet seen, invite me to + take the route of the Rhine. I shall leave this place to-morrow morning, + and probably not reach Paris till the latter end of April. In the moment + we were to have conferred on the subject of paying the arrears due to you, + a letter of the 20th of February, from the board of treasury, was + received, forbidding the application of money to any purpose, (except our + current claims,) till the June interest should be actually in hand. Being + by the letter, tied up from giving an order in your favor, I return you + the letter you had written to Mr. Jay, on the supposition that the order + for your arrears was given. It has been suggested, however, that if you + could receive bonds of the loan, you could make them answer your purpose, + and the commissioners say, this would in no wise interfere with the views + of the treasury board, nor the provision for the June interest. I have, + therefore, recommended to them in writing, to give you bonds to the amount + of your balance, if you choose to take them, rather than to wait. I wish + this may answer your purpose. I remember that in the conversation which I + had the honor of having with you, on the evening I was at the Hague, you + said that your enemies had endeavored to have it believed, that Congress + would abandon you, and withdraw your appointments. An enemy generally says + and believes what he wishes, and your enemies, particularly, are not those + who are most in the counsels of Congress, nor the best qualified to tell + what Congress will do. From the evidences you have received of their + approbation, and from their well known steadiness and justice, you must be + assured of a continuance of their favor, were they to continue under the + present form. Nor do I see any thing in the new government which threatens + us with less firmness. The Senate, who will make and remove their foreign + officers, must, from its constitution, be a wise and steady body. Nor + would a new government begin its administration by discarding old + servants; servants who have put all to the risk, and when the risk was + great, to obtain that freedom and security under which themselves will be + what they shall be. Upon the whole, my Dear Sir, tranquillize yourself and + your family upon this subject. All the evidence, which exists as yet, + authorizes you to do this, nor can I foresee any cause of disquiet in + future. That none may arise, that yourself and family may enjoy health, + happiness, and the continued approbation of those by whom you wish most to + be approved, is the sincere wish of him, who has the honor to be, with + sentiments of sincere esteem and attachment, your most obedient and most + humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0133" id="link2H_4_0133"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXXXI.—TO THE COMMISSIONERS OF THE TREASURY, March 29, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO THE COMMISSIONERS OF THE TREASURY. + </p> + <p> + Gentlemen, + </p> + <p> + Amsterdam, March 29, 1788. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + I cannot close my letter, without some observations on the transfer of our + domestic debt to foreigners. This circumstance, and the failure to pay off + Fiseaux’ loan, were the sole causes of the stagnation of our late loan. + For otherwise our credit would have stood on more hopeful grounds than + heretofore. There was a condition in the last loan, that, the lenders + furnishing one third of the money, the remaining two thirds of the bonds + should remain eighteen months unsold, and at their option to take or not, + and that in the mean time, the same bankers should open no other loan for + us. These same lenders became purchasers of our domestic debt, and they + were disposed to avail themselves of the power they had thus acquired over + us as to our foreign demands, to make us pay the domestic one. Should the + present necessities have obliged you to comply with their proposition for + the present year, I should be of opinion it ought to be the last instance. + If the transfer of these debts to Europe meet with any encouragement from + us, we can no more borrow money here, let our necessities be what they + will. For who will give ninety-six per cent, for the foreign obligations + of the same nation, whose domestic ones can be bought at the same market + for fifty-five per cent.; the former, too, bearing an interest of only + five per cent., while the latter yields six. If any discouragements can be + honestly thrown on this transfer, it would seem advisable, in order to + keep the domestic debt at home. It would be a very effectual one, if, + instead of the title existing in our treasury books alone, it was made to + exist in loose papers, as our loan office debts do. The European holder + would then be obliged to risk the title paper of his capital, as well as + his interest, in the hands of his agent in America, whenever the interest + was to be demanded; whereas, at present, he trusts him with the interest + only. This single circumstance would put a total stop to all future sales + of domestic debt at this market. Whether this, or any other obstruction, + can or should be thrown in the way of these operations, is not for me to + decide; but I have thought the subject worthy your consideration. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect esteem and + respect, Gentlemen, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0134" id="link2H_4_0134"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXXXII.—TO GENERAL WASHINGTON, May 2, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 2, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I am honored with your Excellency’s letter by the last packet, and thank + you for the information it contains on the communication between the + Cayahoga and Big Beaver. I have ever considered the opening a canal + between those two water courses, as the most important work in that line, + which the state of Virginia could undertake. If will infallibly turn + through the Potomac all the commerce of Lake Erie, and the country west of + that, except what may pass down the Mississippi; and it is important that + it be soon done, lest that commerce should, in the mean time, get + established in another channel. Having, in the spring of the last year, + taken a journey through the southern parts of France, and particularly + examined the canal of Languedoc, through its whole course, I take the + liberty of sending you the notes I made on the spot, as you may find in + them something perhaps, which may be turned to account, some time or + other, in the prosecution of the Potomac canal. Being merely a copy from + my travelling notes, they are undigested and imperfect, but may still, + perhaps, give hints capable of improvement in your mind. + </p> + <p> + The affairs of Europe are in such a state still, that it is impossible to + say what form they will take ultimately. France and Prussia, viewing the + Emperor as their most dangerous and common enemy, had heretofore seen + their common safety as depending on a strict connection with one another. + This had naturally inclined the Emperor to the scale of England, and the + Empress also, as having views in common with the Emperor, against the + Turks. But these two powers would, at any time, have gladly quitted + England, to coalesce with France, as being the power which they met every + where, opposed as a barrier to all their schemes of aggrandizement. When, + therefore, the present King of Prussia took the eccentric measure of + bidding defiance to France, by placing his brother-in-law on the throne of + Holland, the two empires immediately seized the occasion of soliciting an + alliance with France. The motives for this appeared so plausible, that it + was believed the latter would have entered into this alliance, and that + thus the whole political system of Europe would have taken a new form. + What has prevented this court from coming into it, we know not. The + unmeasurable ambition of the Emperor, and his total want of moral + principle and honor, are suspected. A great share of Turkey, the recovery + of Silesia, the consolidation of his dominions by the Bavarian exchange, + the liberties of the Germanic body, all occupy his mind together; and his + head is not well enough organized, to pursue so much only of all this, as + is practicable. Still it was thought that France might safely have + coalesced with these powers, because Russia and herself holding close + together, as their interests would naturally dictate, the Emperor could + never stir, but with their permission. France seems, however, to have + taken the worst of all parties, that is, none at all. She folds her arms, + lets the two empires go to work to cut up Turkey as they can, and holds + Prussia aloof, neither as a friend nor foe. This is withdrawing her + opposition from the two empires, without the benefit of any condition + whatever. In the mean time, England has clearly overreached herself. She + excited the war between the Russians and Turks, in hopes that France, + still supporting the Turks, would be embarrassed with the two empires. She + did not foresee the event which has taken place, of France abandoning the + Turks, and that which may take place, of her union with the two empires. + She allied herself with Holland, but cannot obtain the alliance of + Prussia. This latter power would be very glad to close again the breach + with France, and therefore, while there remains an opening for this, holds + off from England, whose fleets could not enter into Silesia, to protect + that from the Emperor. Thus you see, that the old system is unhinged, and + no new one hung in its place. Probabilities are rather in favor of a + connection between the two empires, France, and Spain. Several symptoms + show themselves, of friendly dispositions between Russia and France, + unfriendly ones between Russia and England, and such as are barely short + of hostility between England and France. But into real hostilities, this + country would with difficulty be drawn. Her finances are too deranged, her + internal union too much dissolved, to hazard a war. The nation is pressing + on fast, to a fixed constitution. Such a revolution in the public opinion + has taken place, that the crown already feels its powers bounded, and is + obliged, by its measures, to acknowledge limits. + </p> + <p> + A States-General will be called at some epoch not distant; they will + probably establish a civil list, and leave the government to temporary + provisions of money, so as to render frequent assemblies of the national + representative necessary. How that representative will be organized, is + yet uncertain. Among a thousand projects, the best seems to me, that of + dividing them into two Houses, of Commons and Nobles; the Commons to be + chosen by the Provincial Assemblies, who are chosen themselves by the + people, and the Nobles by the body of <i>Noblesse</i>, as in Scotland. But + there is no reason to conjecture, that this is the particular scheme which + will be preferred. + </p> + <p> + The war between the Russians and Turks has made an opening for our + Commodore Paul Jones. The Empress has invited him into her service. She + insures to him the rank of rear-admiral; will give him a separate command, + and it is understood, that he is never to be commanded. I think she means + to oppose him to the Captain Pacha, on the Black Sea. He is by this time, + probably, at St. Petersburg. The circumstances did not permit his awaiting + the permission of Congress, because the season was close at hand for + opening the campaign. But he has made it a condition, that he shall be + free at all times to return to the orders of Congress, whenever they shall + please to call for him; and also, that he shall not, in any case be + expected to bear arms against France. I believe Congress had it in + contemplation to give him the grade of admiral, from the date of his + taking the Serapis. Such a measure now, would greatly gratify him, second + the efforts of fortune in his favor, and better the opportunities of + improving him for our service, whenever the moment shall come in which we + may want him. + </p> + <p> + The danger of our incurring something like a bankruptcy in Holland, which + might have been long, and even fatally felt in a moment of crisis, induced + me to take advantage of Mr. Adams’s journey to take leave at the Hague, to + meet him there, get him to go on to Amsterdam, and try to avert the + impending danger. The moment of paying a great sum of annual interest was + approaching. There was no money on hand; the board of treasury had + notified that they could not remit any; and the progress of the loan, + which had been opened there, had absolutely stopped. Our bankers there + gave me notice of all this; and that a single day’s failure in the payment + of interest, would have the most fatal effect on our credit. I am happy to + inform you, we were able to set the loan a going again, and that the evil + is at least postponed. Indeed, I am tolerably satisfied, that if the + measures we proposed, are ratified by Congress, all European calls for + money (except the French debt) are secure enough, till the end of the year + 1790; by which time, we calculated that the new government might be able + to get money into the treasury. Much conversation with the bankers, + brokers, and money-holders, gave me insight into the state of national + credit there, which I had never before been able satisfactorily to get. + The English credit is the first, because they never open a loan, without + laying and appropriating taxes for the payment of the interest, and there + has never been an instance of their failing one day, in that payment. The + Emperor and Empress have good credit, because they use it little, and have + hitherto been very punctual. This country is among the lowest, in point of + credit. Ours stands in hope only. They consider us as the surest nation on + earth for the repayment of the capital; but as the punctual payment of + interest is of absolute necessity in their arrangements, we cannot borrow + but with difficulty and disadvantage. The monied men, however, look + towards our new government with a great degree of partiality, and even + anxiety. If they see that set out on the English plan, the first degree of + credit will be transferred to us. A favorable occasion will arise to our + new government of asserting this ground to themselves. The transfer of the + French debt, public and private, to Amsterdam, is certainly desirable. An + act of the new government, therefore, for opening a loan in Holland for + the purpose, laying taxes at the same time for paying annually the + interest and a part of the principal, will answer the two valuable + purposes, of ascertaining the degree of our credit, and of removing those + causes of bickering and irritation, which should never be permitted to + subsist with a nation, with which it is so much our interest to be on + cordial terms as with France. A very small portion of this debt, I mean + that part due to the French officers, has done us an injury, of which + those in office in America cannot have an idea. The interest is unpaid for + the last three years; and these creditors, highly connected, and at the + same time needy, have felt and communicated hard thoughts of us. + Borrowing, as we have done, three hundred thousand florins a year, to pay + our interest in Holland, it would have been worth while to have added + twenty thousand more, to suppress those clamors. I am anxious about every + thing which may affect our credit. My wish would be, to possess it in the + highest degree, but to use it little. Were we without credit, we might be + crushed by a nation of much inferior resources, but possessing higher + credit. The present system of war renders it necessary to make exertions + far beyond the annual resources of the State, and consume in one year the + efforts of many. And this system we cannot change. It remains, then, that + we cultivate our credit with the utmost attention. + </p> + <p> + I had intended to have written a word to your Excellency on the subject of + the new constitution, but I have already spun out my letter to an + immoderate length. I will just observe, therefore, that according to my + ideas, there is a great deal of good in it. There are two things, however, + which I dislike strongly, 1. The want of a declaration of rights. I am in + hopes the opposition in Virginia will remedy this, and produce such a + declaration. 2. The perpetual re-eligibility of the President. This, I + fear, will make that an office for life, first, and then hereditary. I was + much an enemy to monarchies before I came to Europe. I am ten thousand + times more so, since I have seen what they are. There is scarcely an evil + known in these countries, which may not be traced to their king, as its + source, nor a good, which is not derived from the small fibres of + republicanism existing among them. I can further say, with safety, there + is not a crowned head in Europe, whose talents or merits would entitle him + to be elected a vestryman by the people of any parish in America. However, + I shall hope, that before there is danger of this change taking place in + the office of President, the good sense and free spirit of our countrymen + will make the changes necessary to prevent it. Under this hope, I look + forward to the general adoption of the new constitution with anxiety, as + necessary for us under our present circumstances. I have so much + trespassed on your patience already, by the length of this letter, that I + will add nothing further, than those assurances of sincere esteem and + attachment, with which I have the honor to be, your Excellency’s most + obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0135" id="link2H_4_0135"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXXXIII.—TO JAMES MADISON, May 3,1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO JAMES MADISON. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 3,1788. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Mine of February the 6th acknowledged the receipt of yours of December the + 9th and 20th; since that, those of February the 19th and 20th have come to + hand. The present will be delivered you by Mr. Warville, whom you will + find truly estimable, and a great enthusiast for liberty. His writings + will have shown you this. + </p> + <p> + For public news, I must refer you to my letters to Mr. Jay. Those I wrote + to him from Amsterdam will have informed you of my journey thither. While + there, I endeavored to get, as well as I could, into the state of national + credit there; for though I am an enemy to the using our credit but under + absolute necessity, yet the possessing a good credit I consider as + indispensable, in the present system of carrying on war. The existence of + a nation having no credit, is always precarious. The credit of England is + the best. Their paper sells at par on the exchange of Amsterdam, the + moment any of it is offered, and they can command there any sum they + please. The reason is, that they never borrow, without establishing taxes + for the payment of the interest, and they never yet failed one day in that + payment. The Emperor and Empress have good credit enough. They use it + little and have been ever punctual. This country cannot borrow at all + there; for though they always pay their interest within the year, yet it + is often some months behind. It is difficult to assign to our credit its + exact station in this scale. They consider us as the most certain nation + on earth for the principal; but they see that we borrow of themselves to + pay the interest, so that this is only a conversion of their interest into + principal. Our paper, for this reason, sells for from four to eight per + cent, below par, on the exchange, and our loans are negotiated with the + Patriots only. But the whole body of money-dealers, Patriot and + Stadtholderian, look forward to our new government with a great degree of + partiality and interest. They are disposed to have much confidence in it, + and it was the prospect of its establishment, which enabled us to set the + loan of last year into motion again. They will attend steadfastly to its + first money operations. If these are injudiciously begun, correction, + whenever they shall be corrected, will come too late. Our borrowings will + always be difficult and disadvantageous. If they begin well, our credit + will immediately take the first station. Equal provision for the interest, + adding to it a certain prospect for the principal, will give us a + preference to all nations, the English not excepted. The first act of the + new government should be some operation, whereby they may assume to + themselves this station. Their European debts form a proper subject for + this. Digest the whole, public and private, Dutch, French, and Spanish, + into a table, showing the sum of interest due every year, and the portions + of principal payable the same year. Take the most certain branch of + revenue, and one which shall suffice to pay the interest, and leave such a + surplus as may accomplish all the payments of the capital, as terms + somewhat short of those, at which they will become due. Let the surpluses + of those years, in which no reimbursement of principal falls, be applied + to buy up our paper on the exchange of Amsterdam, and thus anticipate the + demands of principal. In this way our paper will be kept up at par; and + this alone will enable us to command in four and twenty hours, at any + time, on the exchange of Amsterdam, as many millions as that capital can + produce. The same act which makes this provision for the existing debts, + should go on to open a loan to their whole amount; the produce of that + loan to be applied, as fast as received, to the payment of such parts of + the existing debts as admit of payment. The rate of interest to be as the + government should privately instruct their agent, because it must depend + on the effect these measures would have on the exchange. Probably it could + be lowered from time to time. Honest and annual publications of the + payments made, will inspire confidence, while silence would conceal + nothing from those interested to know. + </p> + <p> + You will perceive by the <i>comte rendu</i> which I send you, that this + country now calls seriously for its interest at least. The nonpayment of + this, hitherto, has done our credit little injury, because the government + here, saying nothing about it, the public have supposed they wished to + leave us at our ease as to the payment. It is now seen that they call for + it, and they will publish annually the effect of that call. A failure + here, therefore, will have the same effect on our credit hereafter, as a + failure at Amsterdam. I consider it, then, as of a necessity not to be + dispensed with, that these calls be effectually provided for. If it shall + be seen, that the general provision before hinted at cannot be in time, + then it is the present government which should take on itself to borrow in + Amsterdam what may be necessary. The new government should by no means be + left by the old to the necessity of borrowing a stiver, before it can tax + for its interest. This will be to destroy the credit of the new government + in its birth. And I am of opinion, that if the present Congress will add + to the loan of a million (which Mr. Adams and myself have proposed this + year) what may be necessary for the French calls to the year 1790, the + money can be obtained at the usual disadvantage. Though I have not at this + moment received such authentic information from our bankers as I may + communicate to Congress, yet I know privately from one of them (Mr. Jacob + Van Staphorst, who is here), that they had on Hand a fortnight ago four + hundred thousand florins, and the sale going on well. So that the June + interest, which had been in so critical a predicament, was already + secured. If the loan of a million on Mr. Adams’s bonds of this year be + ratified by Congress, the applications of the money on hand may go on + immediately, according to the statement I sent to Mr. Jay. One article in + this I must beg you to press on the treasury board; that is, an immediate + order for the payment of the three years’ arrearages to the French + officers. They were about holding a meeting to take desperate measures on + this subject, when I was called to Holland. I desired them to be quiet + till my return, and since my return I have pressed a further tranquillity + till July, by which time I have given them reason to hope I may have an + answer from the treasury board to my letters of March. Their ill humor can + be contained no longer; and as I know no reason why they may not be paid + at that time, I shall have nothing to urge in our defence after that. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + You remember the report, drawn by Governor Randolph, on the navigation of + the Mississippi. When I came to Europe, Mr. Thomson was so kind as to have + me a copy of it made out. I lent it to Dr. Franklin, and he mislaid it, so + that it could never be found. Could you make interest with him to have me + another copy made, and send it to me? By Mr. Warville I send your + pedometer. To the loop at the bottom of it you must sew a tape, and at the + other end of the tape a small hook (such as we use under the name of hooks + and eyes), cut a little hole in the bottom of your left watch-pocket, pass + the hook and tape through it, and down between the breeches and drawers, + and fix the hook on the edge of your knee-band, an inch from the + knee-buckle; then hook the instrument itself by its swivel-hook on the + upper edge of the watch-pocket. Your tape being well adjusted in length, + your double steps will be exactly counted by the instrument, the shortest + hand pointing out the thousands, the flat hand the hundreds, and the long + hand the tens and units. Never turn the hands backward; indeed, it is best + not to set them to any given place, but to note the number they stand at + when you begin to walk. The adjusting the tape to its exact length is a + critical business, and will cost you many trials. But once done, it is + done for ever. The best way is to have a small buckle fixed on the middle + of the tape, by which you can take it up, and let it out at pleasure. When + you choose it should cease to count, unhook it from the top of the + watch-pocket, and let it fall down to the bottom of the pocket. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + I am, with sentiments of the most sincere esteem and attachment, Dear Sir, + your affectionate friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0136" id="link2H_4_0136"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXXXIV.—TO JOHN JAY, May 4, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 4, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I had the honor of addressing you in two letters of the 13th and 16th of + March from Amsterdam, and have since received Mr. Ramson’s of February the + 20th. I staid at Amsterdam about ten or twelve days after the departure of + Mr. Adams, in hopes of seeing the million of the last year filled up. + This, however, could not be accomplished on the spot. But the prospect was + so good as to have dissipated all fears; and since my return here, I learn + (not officially from our bankers, but) through a good channel, that they + have received near four hundred thousand florins since the date of the + statement I sent you in my letter of March the 16th; and I presume we need + not fear the completion of that loan, which will provide for all our + purposes of the year 1788, as stated in that paper. I hope, therefore, to + receive from the treasury orders in conformity thereto, that I may be able + to proceed to the redemption of our captives. A provision for the purposes + of the years 1789 and 1790, as stated in the same paper, will depend on + the ratification by Congress of Mr. Adams’s bonds of this year for another + million of florins. But there arises a new call from this government, for + its interest at least. Their silence hitherto has made it be believed in + general, that they consented to the nonpayment of our interest to them, in + order to accommodate us. You will perceive in the seventy-fifth and + seventy-sixth pages of the <i>compte rendu</i>, which I have the honor to + send you, that they call for this interest, and will publish whether it be + paid or not; and by No. 25, page eighty-one, that they count on its + regular receipt for the purposes of the year. These calls, for the first + days of January, 1789 and 1790, will amount to about a million and a half + of florins more; and if to be raised by loan, it must be for two millions, + as well to cover the expenses of the loan, as that loans are not opened + for fractions of millions. This publication seems to render a provision + for this interest as necessary as for that of Amsterdam. + </p> + <p> + I had taken measures to have it believed at Algiers, that our government + withdrew its attention from our captives there. This was to prepare their + captors for the ransoming them at a reasonable price. I find, however, + that Captain O’Bryan is apprized that I have received some authority on + this subject. He writes me a cruel letter, supposing me the obstacle to + their redemption. Their own interest requires that I should leave them to + think thus hardly of me. Were the views of government communicated to + them, they could not keep their own secret, and such a price would be + demanded for them, as Congress, probably, would think ought not to be + given, lest it should be the cause of involving thousands of others of + their citizens in the same condition. The moment I have money, the + business shall be set in motion. + </p> + <p> + By a letter from Joseph Chiappe, our agent at Mogadore, I am notified of a + declaration of the Emperor of Morocco, that if the States General of the + United Netherlands do not, before the month of May, send him an + ambassador, to let him know whether it is war or peace between them, he + will send one to them with five frigates; and that if their dispositions + be unfavorable, their frigates shall proceed to America to make prizes on + the Dutch, and to sell them there. It seems to depend on the Dutch, + therefore, whether the Barbary powers shall learn the way to our coasts, + and whether we shall have to decide the question of the legality of + selling in our ports vessels taken from them. I informed you, in a former + letter, of the declaration made by the court of Spain to that of London, + relative to its naval armament, and also of the declaration of the Count + de Montmorin to the Russian minister here on the same subject. I have good + information, that the court of Spain has itself made a similar and formal + declaration to the minister of Russia at Madrid. So that Russia is + satisfied she is not the object. I doubt whether the English are equally + satisfied as to themselves. The season has hitherto prevented any + remarkable operation between the Turks and the two empires. The war, + however, will probably go on, and the season now admits of more important + events. The Empress has engaged Commodore Paul Jones in her service. He is + to have the rank of rear-admiral, with a separate command, and it is + understood that he is in no case to be commanded. He will probably be + opposed to the Captain Pacha on the Black Sea. He received this invitation + at Copenhagen, and as the season for commencing the campaign, was too near + to admit time for him to ask and await the permission of Congress, he + accepted the offer, only stipulating, that he should be always free to + return to the orders of Congress whenever called for, and that he should + not be expected to bear arms against France. He conceived, that the + experience he should gain would enable him to be more useful to the United + States, should they ever have occasion for him. It has been understood, + that Congress had had it in contemplation to give him the grade of + rear-admiral, from the date of the action of the Serapis, and it is + supposed, that such a mark of their approbation would have a favorable + influence on his fortune in the north. Copies of the letters which passed + between him and the Danish minister are herewith transmitted. I shall + immediately represent to Count Bernstorff, that the demand for our prizes + can have no connection with a treaty of commerce; that there is no reason + why the claims of our seamen should await so distant and uncertain an + event; and press the settlement of this claim. + </p> + <p> + This country still pursues its line of peace. The ministry seem now all + united in it; some from a belief of their inability to carry on a war; + others from a desire to arrange their internal affairs, and improve their + constitution. The differences between the King and parliaments threaten a + serious issue. Many symptoms indicate that the government has in + contemplation some act of highhanded authority. An extra number of + printers have for several days been employed, the apartment wherein they + are at work being surrounded by a body of guards, who permit no body + either to come out or go in. The commanders of the provinces, civil and + military, have been ordered to be at their stations on a certain day of + the ensuing week. They are accordingly gone: so that the will of the King + is probably to be announced through the whole kingdom on the same day. The + parliament of Paris, apprehending that some innovation is to be attempted, + which may take from them the opportunity of deciding on it after it shall + be made known, came last night to the resolution of which I have the honor + to enclose you a manuscript copy. This you will perceive to be, in effect, + a declaration of rights. I am obliged to close here the present letter, + lest I should miss the opportunity of conveying it by a passenger who is + to call for it. Should the delay of the packet admit any continuation of + these details, they shall be the subject of another letter, to be + forwarded by post. The gazettes of Leyden and France accompany this. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect esteem and + respect, Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0137" id="link2H_4_0137"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXXXV.—TO THE COUNT DE MOUSTIER, May 17, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO THE COUNT DE MOUSTIER. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 17, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have at length an opportunity of acknowledging the receipt of your + favors of February, and March the 14th, and congratulating you on your + resurrection from the dead, among whom you had been confidently entombed + by the news-dealers of Paris. I am sorry that your first impressions have + been disturbed by matters of etiquette, where surely they should least + have been expected to occur. These disputes are the most insusceptible of + determination, because they have no foundation in reason. Arbitrary and + senseless in their nature, they are arbitrarily decided by every nation + for itself. These decisions are meant to prevent disputes, but they + produce ten, where they prevent one. It would have been better, therefore, + in a new country, to have excluded etiquette altogether; or if it must be + admitted in some form or other, to have made it depend on some + circumstance founded in nature, such as the age or station of the parties. + However, you have got over all this, and I am in hopes have been able to + make up a society suited to your own dispositions. Your situation will + doubtless be improved by the adoption of the new constitution, which I + hope will have taken place before you receive this. I see in this + instrument a great deal of good. The consolidation of our government, a + just representation, an administration of some permanence, and other + features of great value, will be gained by it. There are, indeed, some + faults, which revolted me a good deal in the first moment; but we must be + contented to travel on towards perfection, step by step. We must be + contented with the ground which this constitution will gain for us, and + hope that a favorable moment will come for correcting what is amiss in it. + I view in the same light the innovations making here. The new organization + of the judiciary department is undoubtedly for the better. The reformation + of the criminal code is an immense step taken towards good. The + composition of the Plenary court is indeed vicious in the extreme; but the + basis of that court may be retained, and its composition changed. Make of + it a representative of the people, by composing it of members sent from + the Provincial Assemblies, and it becomes a valuable member of the + constitution. But it is said, the court will not consent to do this: the + court, however, has consented to call the States General, who will + consider the Plenary court but as a canvass for them to work on. The + public mind is manifestly advancing on the abusive prerogatives of their + governors, and bearing them down. No force in the government can withstand + this, in the long run. Courtiers had rather give up power than pleasures; + they will barter, therefore, the usurped prerogatives of the King for the + money of the people. This is the agent by which modern nations will + recover their rights. I sincerely wish that, in this country, they may be + contented with a peaceable and passive opposition. At this moment we are + not sure of this; though as yet it is difficult to say what form the + opposition will take. It is a comfortable circumstance, that their + neighboring enemy is under the administration of a minister disposed to + keep the peace. Engage in war who will, may my country long continue your + peaceful residence, and merit your good offices with that nation, whose + affections it is their duty and interest to cultivate. + </p> + <p> + Accept these and all other the good wishes of him, who has the honor to + be, with sincere esteem and respect, Dear Sir, your most obedient and most + humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0138" id="link2H_4_0138"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXXXVI.—TO JOHN JAY, May 23,1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 23,1788. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + When I wrote my letter of the 4th instant, I had no reason to doubt that a + packet would have sailed on the 10th, according to the established order. + The passengers had all, except one, gone down to Havre in this + expectation. However, none has sailed, and perhaps none will sail, as I + think the suppression of the packets is one of the economies in + contemplation. An American merchant, concerned in the commerce of the + whale-oil, proposed to government to despatch his ships from Havre and + Boston at stated periods, and to take on board the French courier and + mail, and the proposition has been well enough received. I avail myself of + a merchant vessel going from Havre, to write the present. + </p> + <p> + In my letter of the 4th, I stated to you the symptoms which indicated that + government had some great stroke of authority in contemplation. That night + they sent guards to seize Monsieur d’Epremenil and Monsieur Goiskind, two + members of parliament, in their houses. They escaped, and took sanctuary + in the Palais (or parliament house). The parliament assembled itself + extraordinarily, summoned the Dukes and Peers specially, and came to the + resolution of the 5th, which they sent to Versailles by deputies, + determined not to leave the palace till they received an answer. In the + course of that night a battalion of guards surrounded the house. The two + members were taken by the officers from among their fellows, and sent off + to prison, the one to Lyons, the other (d’Epremenil), the most obnoxious, + to an island in the Mediterranean. The parliament then separated. On the + 8th, a bed of justice was held at Versailles, wherein were enregistered + the six ordinances which had been passed in Council on the 1st of May, and + which I now send you. They were in like manner enregistered in beds of + justice, on the same day, in nearly all the parliaments of the kingdom. By + these ordinances, 1. The criminal law is reformed, by abolishing + examination on the <i>sellette</i>, which, like our holding up the hand at + the bar, remained a stigma on the party, though innocent; by substituting + an oath, instead of torture, on the <i>question prĂ©alable</i>, which is + used after condemnation, to make the prisoner discover his accomplices; + (the torture, abolished in 1780, was on the <i>question prĂ©paratoire</i>, + previous to judgment, in order to make the prisoner accuse himself;) by + allowing counsel to the prisoner for his defence; obliging the judges to + specify in their judgments the offence for which he is condemned; and + respiting execution a month, except in the case of sedition. This + reformation is unquestionably good, and within the ordinary legislative + powers of the crown. That it should remain to be made at this day, proves + that the monarch is the last person in his kingdom who yields to the + progress of philanthropy and civilization. 2. The organization of the + whole judiciary department is changed, by the institution of subordinate + jurisdictions, the taking from the parliaments the cognizance of all + causes of less value than twenty thousand livres, reducing their numbers + to about a fourth, and suppressing a number of special courts. Even this + would be a great improvement, if it did not imply that the King is the + only person in this nation, who has any rights or any power. 3. The right + of registering the laws is taken from the parliaments, and transferred to + a Plenary court, created by the King. This last is the measure most + obnoxious to all persons. Though the members are to be for life, yet a + great proportion of them are from descriptions of men always candidates + for the royal favor in other lines. As yet, the general consternation has + not sufficiently passed over, to say whether the matter will end here. I + send you some papers, which indicate symptoms of resistance. These are the + resolution of the <i>Noblesse</i> of Brittany, the declaration of the + Advocate General of Provence, which is said to express the spirit of that + province; and the <i>ArrĂŞtĂ© of the Châtelet</i>, which is the + hustings-court of the city of Paris. Their refusal to act under the new + character assigned them, and the suspension of their principal functions, + are very embarrassing. The clamors this will excite, and the disorders it + may admit, will be loud, and near to the royal ear and person. The + parliamentary fragments permitted to remain, have already some of them + refused, and probably all will refuse, to act under that form. The + assembly of the clergy which happens to be sitting, have addressed the + King to call the States General immediately. Of the Dukes and Peers + (thirty-eight in number), nearly half are either minors or superannuated; + two thirds of the acting half seem disposed to avoid taking a part; the + rest, about eight or nine, have refused, by letters to the King, to act in + the new courts. A proposition excited among the Dukes and Peers, to + assemble and address the King for a modification of the Plenary court, + seems to show that the government would be willing to compromise on that + head. It has been prevented by the Dukes and Peers in opposition, because + they suppose that no modification to be made by the government will give + to that body the form they desire, which is that of a representative of + the nation. They foresee that if the government is forced to this, they + will call them, as nearly as they can, in the ancient forms; in which + case, less good will be to be expected from them. But they hope they may + be got to concur in a declaration of rights, at least, so that the nation + may be acknowledged to have some fundamental rights, not alterable by + their ordinary legislature, and that this may form a ground-work for + future improvements. These seem to be the views of the most enlightened + and disinterested characters of the opposition. But they may be frustrated + by the nation’s making no cry at all, or by a hasty and premature appeal + to arms. There is neither head nor body in the nation, to promise a + successful opposition to two hundred thousand regular troops. Some think + the army could not be depended on by the government; but the breaking men + to military discipline, is breaking their spirits to principles of passive + obedience. A firm, but quiet opposition, will be the most likely to + succeed. Whatever turn this crisis takes, a revolution in their + constitution seems inevitable, unless foreign war supervene, to suspend + the present contest. And a foreign war they will avoid, if possible, from + an inability to get money. The loan of one hundred and twenty millions, of + the present year, is filled up by such subscriptions as may be relied on. + But that of eighty millions, proposed for the next year, cannot be filled + up, in the actual situation of things. + </p> + <p> + The Austrians have been successful in an attack upon Schabatz, intended as + a preliminary to that of Belgrade. In that on Dubitza, another town in the + neighborhood of Belgrade, they have been repulsed, and as is suspected, + with considerable loss. It is still supposed the Russian fleet will go + into the Mediterranean, though it will be much retarded by the refusal of + the English government to permit its sailors to engage in the voyage. + Sweden and Denmark are arming from eight to twelve ships of the line each. + The English and Dutch treaty you will find in the Leyden gazettes of May + the 9th and 13th. That between England and Prussia is supposed to be + stationary. Monsieur de St. Priest, the ambassador from this court to the + Hague, has either gone, or is on the point of going. The Emperor of + Morocco has declared war against England. I enclose you his orders in our + favor, on that occasion. England sends a squadron to the Mediterranean for + the protection of her commerce, and she is reinforcing her possessions in + the two Indies. France is expecting the arrival of an embassy from Tippoo + Saib, is sending some regiments to the East Indies, and a fleet of + evolution into the Atlantic. Seven ships of the line and several frigates, + sailed from Cadiz on the 22nd of April, destined to perform evolutions off + the Western Islands, as the Spaniards say, but really to their American + possessions, as is suspected. Thus the several powers are by little and + little, taking the position of war, without an immediate intention of + waging it. But that the present ill humor will finally end in war, is + doubted by nobody. + </p> + <p> + In my letter of February the 5th, I had the honor of informing you of the + discontent produced by our <i>ArrĂŞt</i> of December the 29th, among the + merchants of this country, and of the deputations from the chambers of + commerce to the minister, on that subject. The articles attacked, were the + privileges on the sale of our ships, and the <i>entrepĂ´t</i> for codfish. + The former I knew to be valuable: the latter I supposed not so; because + during the whole of the time we have had four free ports in this kingdom, + we have never used them for the smuggling of fish. I concluded, therefore, + the ports of <i>entrepĂ´t</i> would not be used for that purpose. I saw + that the ministers would sacrifice something to quiet the merchants, and + was glad to save the valuable article relative to our ships, by abandoning + the useless one for our codfish. It was settled, therefore, in our + conferences, that an <i>ArrĂŞt</i> should be passed, abridging the former + one only as to the entrepot of codfish. I was in Holland when the <i>ArrĂŞt</i> + came out; and did not get a copy of it till yesterday. Surprised to find + that fish-oil was thereby also excluded from the entrepot, I have been + to-day to make some inquiry into the cause; and from what I can learn, I + conclude it must have been a mere error in the clerk who formed the <i>ArrĂŞt</i>, + and that it escaped attention on its passage. The <i>entrepĂ´t</i> of + whale-oil was not objected to by a single deputy at the conferences, and + the excluding it is contrary to the spirit of encouragement the ministers + have shown a disposition to give. I trust, therefore, I may get it altered + on the first occasion which occurs, and I believe one will soon occur. In + the mean time, we do not store a single drop for re-exportation, as all + which comes here is needed for the consumption of this country; which will + alone, according to appearances, become so considerable as to require all + we can produce. + </p> + <p> + By a letter of the 8th instant, from our bankers, I learn that they had + disposed of bonds enough to pay our June interest, and to replace the + temporary advances made by Mr. Grand, and from a fund placed here by the + State of Virginia. I have desired them, accordingly, to replace these + monies, which had been lent for the moment only, and in confidence of + immediate repayment. They add, that the payment of the June interest and + the news from America, will, as they trust, enable them to place the + remaining bonds of the last year’s million. I suppose, indeed, that there + is no doubt of it, and that none would have been expressed, if those two + houses could draw better together than they do. In the mean time, I hope + the treasury board will send an order for so much as may be necessary for + executing the purposes of Congress, as to our captives at Algiers. + </p> + <p> + I send you herewith, a <i>MĂ©moire</i> of Monsieur Caseaux, whose name is + familiar on the journals of Congress. He prepared it to be delivered to + the King, but I believe he will think better, and not deliver it. The + gazettes of France and Leyden accompany this. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + P. S. May 27, 1788. I have kept my letter open to the moment of Mr. + Warville’s departure (he being the bearer of it), that I might add any new + incidents that should occur. The refusal of the <i>Châtelet</i> and <i>Grande + Chambre</i> of Paris to act in the new character assigned them, continues. + Many of the <i>grandes bailliages</i> accept, some conditionally, some + fully. This will facilitate greatly the measures of government, and may + possibly give them a favorable issue. The parliament of Toulouse, + considering the edicts as nullities, went on with their business. They + have been exiled in consequence. Monsieur de St. Priest left Paris for the + Hague, on the 23rd. I mention this fact, because it denotes the + acquiescence of this government in the late revolution there. A second + division of a Spanish fleet will put to sea soon. Its destination not + declared. Sweden is arming to a greater extent than was at first supposed. + From twelve so sixteen sail of the line are spoken of, on good grounds, + Denmark, for her own security, must arm in proportion to this. T. J. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0139" id="link2H_4_0139"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXXXVII.—TO JOHN BROWN, May 26,1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN BROWN. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 26,1788. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + It was with great pleasure I saw your name on the roll of Delegates, but I + did not know you had actually come onto New-York, till Mr. Paradise + informed me of it. Your removal from Carolina to Kentucky was not an + indifferent event to me. I wish to see that country in the hands of people + well disposed, who know the value of the connection between that and the + maritime States, and who wish to cultivate it. I consider their happiness + as bound up together, and that every measure should be taken, which may + draw the bands of union tighter. It will be an efficacious one to receive + them into Congress, as I perceive they are about to desire to this be + added an honest and disinterested conduct in Congress, as to every thing + relating to them, we may hope for a perfect harmony. The navigation of the + Mississippi was, perhaps, the strongest trial to which the justice of the + federal government could be put. If ever they thought wrong about it, I + trust they have got to rights. I should think it proper for the western + country to defer pushing their right to that navigation to extremity, as + long as they can do without it, tolerably; but that the moment it becomes + absolutely necessary for them, it will become the duty of the maritime + states to push it to every extremity, to which they would their own right + of navigating the Chesapeake, the Delaware, the Hudson, or any other + water. A time of peace will not be the surest for obtaining this object. + Those, therefore, who have influence in the new country, would act wisely, + to endeavor to keep things quiet till the western parts of Europe shall be + engaged in war. Notwithstanding the aversion of the courts of London and + Versailles to war, it is not certain that some incident may not engage + them in it. England, France, Spain, Russia, Sweden, and Denmark will all + have fleets at sea, or ready to put to sea immediately. Who can answer for + the prudence of all their officers? War is their interest. Even their + courts are pacific from impotence only, not from disposition. I wish to + Heaven that our new government may see the importance of putting + themselves immediately into a respectable position. To make provision for + the speedy payment of their foreign debts, will be the first operation + necessary. This will give them credit. A concomitant one should be, + magazines and manufactures of arms. This country is at present in a crisis + of very uncertain issue. I am in hopes it will be a favorable one to the + rights and happiness of the people; and that this will take place quietly. + Small changes in the late regulations will render them wholly good. The + campaign opens between the Turks and the two empires, with an aspect + rather favorable to the former. The Russians seem not yet thawed from the + winter’s torpitude. They have no army yet in motion: and the Emperor has + been worsted in two thirds of the small actions, which they have had as + yet. He is said to be rather retiring. I do not think, however, that the + success of the Turks in the partisan affairs which have taken place, can + authorize us to presume, that they will be superior also in great + decisions. Their want of discipline and skill in military manoeuvres is of + little consequence in small engagements, and of great in larger ones. + Their grand army was at Adrianople by the last accounts, and to get from + thence to Belgrade will require a month. It will be that time at least + then, before we can have any very interesting news from them. In the mean + time, the plague rages at Constantinople to a terrible degree. I cannot + think but that it would be desirable to all commercial nations, to have + that nation and all its dependencies driven from the sea-coast, into the + interior parts of Asia and Africa. What a field would, thus be restored to + commerce! The finest parts of the old world are now dead, in a great + degree, to commerce, to arts, to science, and to society. Greece, Syria, + Egypt, and the northern coast of Africa, constituted the whole world + almost for the Romans, and to us they are scarcely known, scarcely + accessible at all. The present summer will enable us to judge, what turn + this contest will take. I am greatly anxious to hear that nine States + accept our new constitution. We must be contented to accept of its good, + and to cure what is evil in it hereafter. It seems necessary for our + happiness at home; I am sure it is so for our respectability abroad. I + shall, at all times, be glad to hear from you, from New York, from + Kentucky, or whatever region of the earth you inhabit; being with + sentiments of very sincere esteem and attachment, Dear Sir, your friend + and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0140" id="link2H_4_0140"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXXXVIII.—TO WILLIAM CARMICHAEL, May 27, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO WILLIAM CARMICHAEL. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 27, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Your favors of April the 14th and 29th, and May the 8th, have lately come + to hand. That of January the 29th, by M. de Moinedo, had been left here + during my absence on a journey to Amsterdam. That gentleman had gone, as I + presume, before my return, from my being unable to learn any thing of him. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + With respect to the Isthmus of Panama, I am assured by Burgoine (who would + not chose to be named, however), that a survey was made, that a canal + appeared very practicable, and that the idea was suppressed for political + reasons altogether. He has seen and minutely examined the report. This + report is to me a vast <i>desideratum</i>, for reasons political and + philosophical. I cannot help suspecting the Spanish squadrons to be gone + to South America, and that some disturbances have been excited there by + the British. The court of Madrid may suppose we would not see this with an + unwilling eye. This may be true as to the uninformed part of our people: + but those who look into futurity farther than the present moment or age, + and who combine well what is, with what is to be, must see that our + interests, well understood, and our wishes are, that Spain shall (not for + ever, but) very long retain her possessions in that quarter; and that her + views and ours must, in a good degree, and for a long time, concur. It is + said in our gazettes, that the Spaniards have sunk one of our boats on the + Mississippi, and that our people retaliated on one of theirs. But my + letters, not mentioning this fact, have made me hope it is not true, in + which hope your letter confirms me. There are now one hundred thousand + inhabitants in Kentucky. They have accepted the offer of independence, on + the terms proposed by Virginia, and they have decided that their + independent government shall begin on the first day of the next year. In + the mean time, they claim admittance into Congress. Georgia has ceded her + western territory to the United States, to take place with the + commencement of the new federal government. I do not know the boundaries. + There has been some dispute of etiquette with the new French minister, + which has disgusted him. + </p> + <p> + The following is a state of the progress and prospects of the new plan of + government. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + The conduct of Massachusetts has been noble. She accepted the + constitution, but voted that it should stand as a perpetual instruction to + her Delegates, to endeavor to obtain such and such reformations; and the + minority, though very strong both in numbers and abilities, declared <i>viritim</i> + and <i>seriatim</i>, that acknowledging the principle that the majority + must give the law, they would now support the new constitution with their + tongues, and with their blood, if necessary. I was much pleased with many + and essential parts of this instrument, from the beginning. But I thought + I saw in it many faults, great and small. What I have read and reflected, + has brought me over from several of my objections, of the first moment, + and to acquiesce under some others. Two only remain, of essential + consideration, to wit, the want of a bill of rights, and the expunging the + principle of necessary rotation in the offices of President and Senator. + At first, I wished that when nine States should have accepted the + constitution, so as to insure us what is good in it, the other four might + hold off till the want of the bill of rights at least, might be supplied. + But I am now convinced that the plan of Massachusetts is the best, that + is, to accept and to amend afterwards. If the States which were to decide + after her, should all do the same, it is impossible but they must obtain + the essential amendments. It will be more difficult, if we lose this + instrument, to recover what is good in it, than to correct what is bad, + after we shall have adopted it. It has, therefore, my hearty prayers, and + I wait with anxiety for news of the votes of Maryland, South Carolina, and + Virginia. There is no doubt that General Washington will accept the + presidentship; though he is silent on the subject. He would not be chosen + to the Virginia convention. A riot has taken place in New York, which I + will state to you from an eye-witness. It has long been a practice with + the surgeons of that city, to steal from the grave bodies recently buried. + A citizen had lost his wife: he went, the first or second evening after + her burial, to pay a visit to her grave.. He found that it had been + disturbed, and suspected from what quarter. He found means to be admitted + to the anatomical lecture of that day, and on his entering the room, saw + the body of his wife, naked and under dissection. He raised the people + immediately. The body, in the mean time, was secreted. They entered into + and searched the houses of the physicians whom they most suspected, but + found nothing. One of them however more guilty or more timid than the + rest, took asylum in the prison. The mob considered this an acknowledgment + of guilt. They attacked the prison. The Governor ordered militia to + protect the culprit, and suppress the mob. The militia, thinking the mob + had just provocation, refused to turn out. Hereupon the people of more + reflection, thinking it more dangerous that even a guilty person should be + punished without the forms of law, than that he should escape, armed + themselves, and went to protect the physician. They were received by the + mob with a volley of stones, which wounded several of them. They hereupon + fired on the mob and killed four. By this time, they received a + reinforcement of other citizens of the militia horse, the appearance of + which, in the critical moment, dispersed the mob. So ended this chapter of + history, which I have detailed to you, because it may be represented as a + political riot, when politics had nothing to do with it. Mr. Jay and Baron + Steuben were both grievously wounded in the head by stones. The former + still kept his bed, and the latter his room, when the packet sailed, which + was the 24th of April. I am, with sentiments of great esteem and respect, + Dear Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0141" id="link2H_4_0141"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXXXIX.—TO JOHN JAY, May 27, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + (Private.) Paris, May 27, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + The change which is likely to take place in the form of our government, + seems to render it proper, that, during the existence of the present + government, an article should be mentioned which concerns me personally. + Uncertain, however, how far Congress may have decided to do business when + so near the close of their administration; less capable than those on the + spot of foreseeing the character of the new government; and not fully + confiding in my own judgment, where it is so liable to be seduced by + feeling, I take the liberty of asking your friendly counsel, and that of + my friend Mr. Madison, and of referring the matter to your judgments and + discretion. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Barclay when in Europe was authorized to settle all the European + accounts of the United States: he settled those of Dr. Franklin and Mr. + Adams, and it was intended between us, that he should settle mine. But as + what may be done at any time is often put off to the last, this settlement + had been made to give way to others, and that of Beaumarchais being + pressed on Mr. Barclay before his departure for Morocco, and having long + retarded his departure, it was agreed that my affair should await his + return from that mission: you know the circumstances which prevented his + return to Paris after that mission was finished. My account is therefore + unsettled, but I have no anxiety on any article of it, except one, that + is, the outfit. This consists of, 1. clothes; 2. carriage and horses; 3. + household furniture. When Congress made their first appointments of + ministers to be resident in Europe, I have understood (for I was not then + in Congress) that they allowed them all their expenses, and a fixed sum + over and above for their time. Among their expenses, was necessarily + understood their outfit. Afterwards they thought proper to give them fixed + salaries of eleven thousand one hundred and eleven dollars and one ninth a + year; and again, by a resolution of May the 6th and 8th, 1784, the + ‘salaries’ of their ministers at foreign courts were reduced to nine + thousand dollars, to take place on the 1st of August ensuing. On the 7th + of May I was appointed, in addition to Mr. Adams and Dr. Franklin, for the + negotiation of treaties of commerce; but this appointment being temporary, + for two years only, and not as of a resident minister, the article of + outfit did not come into question. I asked an advance of six months’ + salary, that I might be in cash to meet the first expenses; which was + ordered. The year following, I was appointed to succeed Dr. Franklin at + this court. This was the first appointment of a minister resident, since + the original ones, under which all expenses were to be paid. So much of + the ancient regulation, as respected annual expenses, had been altered to + a sum certain; so much of it as respected first expenses, or outfit, + remained unaltered; and I might therefore expect, that the actual expenses + for outfit were to be paid. When I prepared my account for settlement with + Mr. Barclay, I began a detail of the articles of clothes, carriage, + horses, and household furniture. I found that they were numerous, minute, + and incapable, from their nature, of being vouched; and often entered in + my memorandum-book under a general head only, so that I could not specify + them. I found they would exceed a year’s salary. Supposing, therefore, + that, mine being the first case, Congress would make a precedent of it, + and prefer a sum fixed for the outfit, as well as the salary, I have + charged it in my account at a year’s salary; presuming there can be no + question that an outfit is a reasonable charge. It is the usage here (and + I suppose at all courts), that a minister resident, shall establish his + house in the first instant. If this is to be done out of his salary, he + will be a twelvemonth at least without a copper to live on. It is the + universal practice, therefore, of all nations, to allow the outfit as a + separate article from the salary. I have inquired here into the usual + amount of it. I find that, sometimes, the sovereign pays the actual cost. + This is particularly the case of the Sardinian ambassador now coming here, + who is to provide a service of plate, and every article of furniture, and + other matters of first expense, to be paid for by his court. In other + instances, they give a service of plate, and a fixed sum for all other + articles, which fixed sum is in no case lower than a year’s salary. + </p> + <p> + I desire no service of plate, having no ambition for splendor. My + furniture, carriage, and apparel are all plain, yet they have cost me more + than a year’s salary. I suppose that in every country, and in every + condition of life, a year’s expense would be found a moderate measure for + the furniture of a man’s house. It is not more certain to me, that the sun + will rise to-morrow, than that our government must allow the outfit, on + their future appointment of foreign ministers; and it would be hard on me, + so to stand between the discontinuance of a former rule, and institution + of a future one, as to have the benefit of neither. I know, I have so long + known the character of our federal head, in its present form, that I have + the most unlimited confidence in the justice of its decisions. I think I + am so far known to many of the present Congress, as that I may be cleared + of all views of making money out of any public employment, or of desiring + any thing beyond actual and decent expenses, proportioned to the station + in which they have been pleased to place me, and to the respect they would + wish to see attached to it. It would seem right, that they should decide + the claims of those who have acted under their administration, and their + pretermission of any article, might amount to a disallowance of it in the + opinion of the new government. It would be painful to me to meet that + government with a claim under this kind of cloud, and to pass it in review + before their several Houses of legislation, and boards of administration, + to whom I shall be unknown; and being for money actually expended, it + would be too inconvenient to me to relinquish it in silence. I anxiously + ask it, therefore, to be decided on by Congress before they go out of + office, if it be not out of the line of proceeding they may have chalked + out for themselves. If it be against their inclination to determine it, + would it be agreeable to them to refer it to the new government, by some + resolution, which should show they have not meant to disallow it, by + passing it over? Not knowing the circumstances under which Congress may + exist and act at the moment you shall receive this, I am unable to judge + what should be done on this subject. It is therefore that I ask the aid of + your friendship and that of Mr. Madison, that you will do for me in this + regard, what you think it is right should be done, and what it would be + right for me to do, were I on the spot, or were I apprized of all existing + circumstances. Indeed, were you two to think my claim an improper one, I + would wish it to be suppressed, as I have so much confidence in your + judgment, that I should suspect my own in any case where it varied from + yours, and more especially, in one where it is liable to be warped by + feeling. Give me leave, then, to ask your consultation with Mr. Madison on + this subject; and to assure you that whatever you are so good as to do + herein, will be perfectly approved, and considered as a great obligation + conferred on him, who has the honor to be, with sentiments of the most + perfect esteem and attachment, Dear Sir, your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0142" id="link2H_4_0142"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXL.*—TO JAMES MADISON, May 28, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO JAMES MADISON. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 28, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + The enclosed letter for Mr. Jay, being of a private nature. I have thought + it better to put it under your cover, lest it might be opened by some of + his clerks, in the case of his absence. But I enclose a press copy of it + for yourself, as you will perceive the subject of it referred to you, as + well as to him. I ask your aid in it so far as you think right, and to + have done what you think right. If you will now be so good as to cast your + eye over the copy enclosed, what follows the present sentence, will be + some details, supplementary to that only, necessary for your information, + but not proper for me to state to Mr. Jay. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [* It will be seen that a few words of this letter are in + cipher. It is published, however, as written, because + enough of it is literal to interest the reader, to whom + also a specimen of the cipher, used by the Author, may + not be unacceptable.] +</pre> + <p> + 378.227.1247. though appointed a minister resident at the court of 514. he + never was 663. in that character. He was continually passing from 1042. to + 514. and 514. to 1042., so that he had no occasion to establish a + household at either. Accordingly, he staid principally in furnished + lodgings. Of all our ministers, he had the least occasion for an outfit, + and I suppose spent almost nothing on that article. He was of a + disposition, too, to restrain himself within any limits of expense + whatever, and it suited his recluse turn, which is, to avoid society. + Should he judge of what others should do, by what he did, it would be an + improper criterion. He was in Europe as a voyageur only, and it was while + the salary was five hundred guineas more than at present. + </p> + <p> + 145.1267.1046.7. he came over, when, instead of outfit and salary, all + expenses were paid. Of rigorous honesty, and careless of appearances, he + lived for a considerable time as an economical private individual. After + he was fixed at 812.141. and the salary at a sum certain, he continued his + economical style, till, out of the difference between his expenses and his + salary, he could purchase furniture for his house. This was the easier, as + the salary was at two thousand five hundred guineas then. He was obliged, + too, to be passing between 1042. and 812.141. so as to avoid any regular + current of expenses. When he established himself, his pecuniary affairs + were under the direction of 964.814.7.101.994., one of the most estimable + characters on earth, and the most attentive and honorable economists. + Neither had a wish to lay up a copper, but both wished to make both ends + meet. I suspected, however, from an expression dropped in conversation, + that they were not able to do this, and that a deficit in their accounts + appeared in their winding up. If this conjecture be true, it is a proof + that the salary, so far from admitting savings, is unequal to a very plain + style of life; for such was theirs. I presume Congress will be asked to + allow it, and it is evident to me, from what I saw while in 1093. that it + ought to be done, as they did not expend a shilling which should have been + avoided. Would it be more eligible to set the example of making good a + deficit, or to give him an outfit, which will cover it? The impossibility + of living on the sum allowed, respectably, was the true cause of his + insisting on his recall. 821.267.1292. He came over while all expenses + were paid. He rented a house with standing furniture, such as tables, + chairs, presses, &c., and bought all other necessaries. The latter + were charged in his account; the former was included in the article of + house-rent, and paid during the whole time of his stay here; and as the + established rate of hire for furniture is from thirty to forty per cent, + per annum, the standing furniture must have been paid for three times + over, during the eight years he staid here. His salary was two thousand + five hundred guineas. When Congress reduced it to less than two thousand, + he refused to accede to it, asked his recall, and insisted that whenever + they chose to alter the conditions on which he came out, if he did not + approve of it, they ought to replace him in America on the old conditions. + He lived plain, but as decently as his salary would allow. He saved + nothing, but avoided debt. He knew he could not do this on the reduced + salary, and therefore asked his recall with decision. + </p> + <p> + To 935.145. succeeded. He had established a certain style of living. The + same was expected from 1214. and there were five hundred guineas a year + less to do it on. It has been aimed at, however, as far as was + practicable. This rendered it constantly necessary to step neither to the + right nor to the left, to incur any expense which could possibly be + avoided, and it called for an almost womanly attention to the details of + the household, equally perplexing, disgusting, and inconsistent with + business. You will be sensible, that, in this situation, no savings could + be made for reimbursing the half year’s salary, ordered to be advanced + under the former commission, and more than as much again, which was + unavoidably so applied, without order, for the purchase of the outfit. The + reason of the thing, the usage of all nations, the usage of our own, by + paying all expenses of preceding ministers, which gave them the outfit, as + far as their circumstances appeared to them to render it necessary, have + made me take for granted all along, that it would not be refused to me: + nor should I have mentioned it now, but that the administration is passing + into other hands, and more complicated forms. It would be disagreeable to + me to be presented to them, in the first instance, as a suitor. Men come + into business at first with visionary principles. It is practice alone, + which can correct and conform them to the actual current of affairs. In + the mean time, those to whom their errors were first applied, have been + their victims. The government may take up the project of appointing + foreign ministers without outfits, and they may ruin two or three + individuals, before they find that that article is just as indispensable + as the salary. They must then fall into the current of general usage, + which has become general, only because experience has established its + necessity. Upon the whole, be so good as to reflect on it, and to do, not + what your friendship to me, but your opinion of what is right, shall + dictate. + </p> + <p> + Accept, in all cases, assurances of the sincere esteem and respect with + which I am, Dear Sir, your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0143" id="link2H_4_0143"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXLI.—TO PETER CARU, May 23, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO PETER CARU. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 23, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Dear Peter, + </p> + <p> + The preceding letter [* For the letter referred to, see ante, LXXIV.] was + written at its date, and I supposed you in possession of it, when your + letters of December the 10th, 1787, and March the 18th, 1788, told me + otherwise. Still I supposed it on its way to you, when a few days ago, + having occasion to look among some papers in the drawer, where my letters + are usually put away, till an opportunity of sending them occurs, I found + that this letter had slipped among them, so that it had never been + forwarded. I am sorry for it, on account of the remarks relative to the + Spanish language only. Apply to that with all the assiduity you can. That + language and the English covering nearly the whole face of America, they + should be well known to every inhabitant, who means to look beyond the + limits of his farm. I like well the distribution of your time, mentioned + in your letter of March the 18th; and the counsels of Mr. Wythe, so kindly + extended to you, leave it necessary for me to add nothing of that kind. Be + assiduous in learning, take much exercise for your health, and practise + much virtue. Health, learning, and virtue, will insure your happiness; + they will give you a quiet conscience, private esteem, and public honor. + Beyond these, we want nothing but physical necessaries, and they are + easily obtained. My daughters are well, and join me in love to yourself, + your mother, brothers, and sisters. + </p> + <p> + I am, with very sincere esteem, Dear Peter, your affectionate + </p> + <p> + friend, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0144" id="link2H_4_0144"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXLII.—TO THE COMTE DE BERNSTORFF, June 19, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO THE COMTE DE BERNSTORFF. + </p> + <p> + Paris, June 19, 1788. + </p> + <p> + I had the honor of addressing your Excellency, by Admiral Paul Jones, on + the 21st of January, on the subject of the prizes taken under his command + during the late war, and sent into Bergen. I communicated at the same time + a copy of the powers which the Congress of the United States of America + had been pleased to confide to me therein, having previously shown the + original to the Baron de Blome, Envoy Extraordinary of his Majesty, the + King of Denmark, at this court; and I furnished, at the same time, to + Admiral Paul Jones, such authority as I was empowered to delegate, for the + arrangement of this affair. That officer has transmitted me a copy of your + Excellency’s letter to him of the 4th of April, wherein you are pleased to + observe, that the want of full powers on his part was an invincible + obstacle to the definitive discussion of this claim with him, and to + express your dispositions to institute a settlement at this place. Always + assured of the justice and honor of the court of Denmark, and encouraged + by the particular readiness of your Excellency to settle and remove this + difficulty from between the two nations, I take the liberty of recalling + your attention to it. The place of negotiation proposed by your + Excellency, meets no objection from us, and it removes, at the same time, + that which the want of full powers in Admiral Paul Jones had produced in + your mind. These full powers Congress have been pleased to honor me with. + The arrangement taken between the person to be charged with your full + powers and myself, will be final and conclusive. You are pleased to + express a willingness to treat at the same time on the subjects of amity + and commerce. The powers formerly communicated on our part, were given to + Mr. Adams, Doctor Franklin, and myself, for a limited term only. That term + has expired, and the other two gentlemen returned to America; so that no + person is commissioned at this moment to renew those conferences. I may + safely, however, assure your Excellency, that the same friendly + dispositions still continue, and the same desire of facilitating and + encouraging a commerce between the two nations, which produced the former + appointment. But our nation is, at this time, proposing a change in the + organization of its government. For this change to be agreed to by all the + members of the Union, the new administration chosen and brought into + activity, their domestic matters arranged, which will require their first + attention, their foreign system afterwards decided on and carried into + full execution, will require very considerable length of time. To place + under the same delay the private claims which I have the honor to present + to your Excellency, would be hard on the persons interested: because these + claims have no connection with the system of commercial connection, which + may be established between the two nations, nor with the particular form + of our administration. The justice due to them is complete, and the + present administration as competent to final settlement as any future one + will be, should a future change take place. These individuals have already + lingered nine years in expectation of their hard and perilous earnings. + Time lessens their numbers continually, disperses their representatives, + weakens the evidence of their right, and renders more and more + impracticable his Majesty’s dispositions to repair the private injury, to + which public circumstances constrained him. These considerations, the just + and honorable intentions of your Excellency, and the assurances you give + us in your letter, that no delay is wished on your part, give me strong + hopes that we may speedily obtain that final arrangement, which express + instructions render it my duty to urge. I have the honor, therefore, of + agreeing with your Excellency, that the settlement of this matter, + formerly begun at Paris, shall be continued there; and to ask that you + will be pleased to give powers and instructions for this purpose to such + persons as you shall think proper, and in such full form as may prevent + those delays, to which the distance between Copenhagen and Paris might + otherwise expose us. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most profound respect, your + Excellency’s most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0145" id="link2H_4_0145"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXLIII.—TO THE COUNT DE MONTMORIN, June 20, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO THE COUNT DE MONTMORIN. + </p> + <p> + Paris, June 20, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + Having had the honor of mentioning to your Excellency the wish of + Congress, that certain changes should be made in the articles for a + consular convention, which had been sent to them, I have now that, + conformably to the desire you expressed, of giving a general idea of the + alterations to be proposed. + </p> + <p> + The fourth article gives to the consuls the immunities of the law of + nations. It has been understood, however, that the laws of France do not + admit of this; and that it might be desirable to expunge this article. In + this we are ready to concur, as in every other case, where an article + might call for changes in the established laws, either inconvenient or + disagreeable. + </p> + <p> + After establishing in favor of consuls, the general immunities of the law + of nations, one consequence of which would have been, that they could not + have been called upon to give testimony in courts of justice, the fifth + article requires, that after the observance of certain formalities, which + imply very high respect, they shall make a declaration; but <i>in their + own houses</i> [<i>chez eux</i>] as may be pretended, if not justly + inferred, from the expressions in the article. But our laws require, + indispensably, a personal examination of witnesses in the presence of the + parties, of their counsel, the jury, and judges, each of whom has a right + to ask of them all questions pertinent to the fact. The first and highest + officers of our government are obliged to appear personally to the order + of a court, to give evidence. The court takes care that they are treated + with respect. It is proposed, therefore, to omit this article for these + particular reasons, as well as for the general one, that the fourth being + expunged, this, which was but an exception to that, falls of course. + </p> + <p> + The seventh, eighth, tenth, and fourteenth articles extend their + pre-eminences far beyond those, which the laws of nations would have + given. These articles require that the declarations made in the presence + of consuls, and certified by them, shall be received in evidence in all + courts whatever: and, in some instances, give to their certificates a + credibility which excludes all other testimony. The cases are rare, in + which our laws admit written evidence of facts; and such evidence, when + admitted, must have been given in the presence of both parties, and must + contain the answers to all the pertinent questions, which they may have + desired to ask of the witness: and to no evidence, of whatever nature, + written or oral, do our laws give so high credit, as to exclude all + counter-proof. These principles are of such ancient foundation in our + system of jurisprudence, and are so much valued and venerated by our + citizens, that perhaps it would be impossible to execute articles, which + should contravene them, nor is it imagined that these stipulations can be + so interesting to this country, as to balance the inconvenience and hazard + of such an innovation with us. Perhaps it might be found, that the laws of + both countries require a modification of this article; as it is + inconceivable that the certificate of an American consul in France could + be permitted by one of its courts to establish a fact, the falsehood of + which should be notorious to the court itself. + </p> + <p> + The eighth article gives to the consuls of either nation a jurisdiction, + in certain cases, over foreigners of any other. On a dispute arising in + France, between an American and a Spaniard or an Englishman, it would not + be fair to abandon the Spaniard or Englishman to an American consul. On + the contrary, the territorial judge, as neutral, would seem to be the most + impartial. Probably, therefore, it will be thought convenient for both + parties, to correct this stipulation. + </p> + <p> + A dispute arising between two subjects of France, the one being in France + and the other in the United States, the regular tribunals of France would + seem entitled to a preference of jurisdiction. Yet the twelfth article + gives it to their consul in America; and to the consul of the United + States in France, in a like case between their citizens. + </p> + <p> + The power given by the tenth article, of arresting and sending back a + vessel, its captain, and crew, is a very great one indeed, and, in our + opinion, more safely lodged with the territorial judge. We would ourselves + trust the tribunals of France to decide, when there is just cause for so + high-handed an act of authority over the persons and property of so many + of our citizens, to all of whom these tribunals will stand in a neutral + and impartial relation, rather than any single person whom we may appoint + as consul, who will seldom be learned in the laws, and often susceptible + of influence from private interest and personal pique. With us, + applications for the arrest of vessels, and of their masters, are made to + the admiralty courts. These are composed of the most learned and virtuous + characters in the several States, and the maritime law, common to all + nations, is the rule of their proceedings. The exercise of foreign + jurisdiction, within the pale of their own laws, in a very high case, and + wherein those laws have made honorable provisions, would be a phenomenon + never yet seen in our country, and which would be seen with great jealousy + and uneasiness. On the contrary, to leave this power with the territorial + judge will inspire confidence and friendship, and be really, at the same + time, more secure against abuse. The power of arresting deserted seamen + seems necessary for the purposes of navigation and commerce, and will be + more attentively and effectually exercised by the consul, than by the + territorial judge. To this part of the tenth article, therefore, as well + as to that which requires the territorial judge to assist the consul in + the exercise of this function, we can accede. But the extension of the + like power to passengers, seems not necessary for the purposes either of + navigation or commerce. It does not come, therefore, within the functions + of the consul, whose institution is for those two objects only, nor within + the powers of a commissioner, authorized to treat and conclude a + convention, solely for regulating the powers, privileges, and duties of + consuls. The arrest and detention of passengers, moreover, would often be + in contradiction to our bills of rights, which, being fundamental, cannot + be obstructed in their operation by any law or convention whatever. + </p> + <p> + Consular institutions being entirely new with us, Congress think it wise + to make their first convention probationary, and not perpetual. They + propose, therefore, a clause for limiting its duration to a certain term + of years. If after the experience of a few years, it should be found to + answer the purposes intended by it, both parties will have sufficient + inducements to renew it, either in its present form, or with such + alterations and amendments, as time, experience, and other circumstances + may indicate. + </p> + <p> + The convention, as expressed in the French language, will fully answer our + purposes in France, because it will there be understood. But it will not + equally answer the purposes of France in America, because it will not + there be understood. In very few of the courts, wherein it may be + presented, will there be found a single judge or advocate, capable of + translating it at all, much less of giving to all its terms, legal and + technical, their exact equivalent in the laws and language of that + country. Should any translation which Congress would undertake to publish, + for the use of our courts, be conceived on any occasion not to render + fully the idea of the French original, it might be imputed as an indirect + attempt to abridge or extend the terms of a contract, at the will of one + party only. At no place are there better helps than here, for establishing + an English text equivalent to the French, in all its phrases; no persons + can be supposed to know what is meant by these phrases, better than those + who form them; and no time more proper to ascertain their meaning in both + languages than that at which they are formed. I have, therefore, the honor + to propose, that the convention shall be faithfully expressed in English + as well as in French, in two columns, side by side, that these columns be + declared each of them to be text, and to be equally original and authentic + in all courts of justice. + </p> + <p> + This, Sir, is a general sketch of the alterations, which our laws and our + manner of thinking render necessary in this convention, before the faith + of our country is engaged for its execution. Some of its articles, in + their present form, could not be executed at all, and others would produce + embarrassments and ill humor, to which it would not be prudent for our + government to commit itself. Inexact execution on the one part, would + naturally beget dissatisfaction and complaints on the other; and an + instrument intended to strengthen our connection, might thus become the + means of loosening it. Fewer articles, better observed, will better + promote our common interests. As to ourselves, we do not find the + institution of consuls very necessary. Its history commences in times of + barbarism, and might well have ended with them. During these, they were, + perhaps, useful, and may still be so in countries not yet emerged from + that condition. But all civilized nations at this day understand so well + the advantages of commerce, that they provide protection and encouragement + for merchant strangers and vessels coming among them. So extensive, too, + have commercial connections now become, that every mercantile house has + correspondents in almost every port. They address their vessels to these + correspondents, who are found to take better care of their interests, and + to obtain more effectually the protection of the laws of the country for + them, than the consul of their nation can. He is generally a foreigner, + unpossessed of the little details of knowledge of greatest use to them. He + makes national questions of all the difficulties which arise; the + correspondent prevents them. We carry on commerce with good success in all + parts of the world; yet we have not a consul in a single port, nor a + complaint for the want of one, except from the persons who wish to be + consuls themselves. Though these considerations may not be strong enough + to establish the absolute inutility of consuls, they may make us less + anxious to extend their privileges and jurisdictions, so as to render them + objects of jealousy and irritation, in the places of their residence. That + this government thinks them useful, is sufficient reason for us to give + them all the functions and facilities which our circumstances will admit. + Instead, therefore, of declining every article which will be useless to + us, we accede to every one which will not be inconvenient. Had this nation + been alone concerned, our desire to gratify them might have tempted us to + press still harder on the laws and opinions of our country. But your + Excellency knows, that we stand engaged in treaties with some nations, + which will give them occasion to claim whatever privileges we yield to any + other. This renders circumspection more necessary. Permit me to add one + other observation. The English allow to foreign consuls scarcely any + functions within their ports. This proceeds, in a great measure, from the + character of their laws, which eye, with peculiar jealousy, every + exemption from their control. Ours are the same in their general + character, and rendered still more unpliant, by our having thirteen + parliaments to relax, instead of one. Upon the whole, I hope your + Excellency will see the causes of the delay which this convention has met + with, in the difficulties it presents, and our desire to surmount them: + and will be sensible that the alterations proposed, are dictated to us by + the necessity of our circumstances, and by a caution, which cannot be + disapproved, to commit ourselves to no engagements which we foresee we + might not be able o fulfil. + </p> + <p> + These alterations, with some other smaller ones, which may be offered on + the sole principle of joint convenience, shall be the subject of more + particular explanation, whenever your Excellency shall honor me with a + conference thereon. I shall then, also, point out the verbal changes which + appear to me necessary, to accommodate the instrument to the views before + expressed. In the mean time, I have the honor to be, with sentiments of + the most perfect respect and esteem, your Excellency’s most obedient and + most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0146" id="link2H_4_0146"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXLIV.—TO DOCTOR GORDON, July 16, 1788 + </h2> + <h3> + TO DOCTOR GORDON. + </h3> + <p> + Paris, July 16, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + In your favor of the 8th instant, you mentioned that you had written to me + in February last. This letter never came to hand. That of April the 24th + came here during my absence on a journey through Holland and Germany; and + my having been obliged to devote the first moments after my return to some + very pressing matters, must be my apology for not having been able to + write to you till now. As soon as I knew that it would be agreeable to you + to have such a disposal of your work for translation, as I had made for + Dr. Ramsay, I applied to the same bookseller with propositions on your + behalf. He told me, that he had lost so much by that work, that he could + hardly think of undertaking another, and, at any rate, not without first + seeing and examining it. As he was the only bookseller I could induce to + give any thing on the former occasion, I went to no other with my + proposal, meaning to ask you to send me immediately as much of the work as + is printed. This you can do by the Diligence, which comes three times a + week from London to Paris. Furnished with this, I will renew my + proposition, and do the best for you I can; though I fear that the ill + success of the translation of Dr. Ramsay’s work, and of another work on + the subject of America, will permit less to be done for you than I had + hoped. I think Dr. Ramsay failed from the inelegance of the translation, + and the translator’s having departed entirely from the Doctor’s + instructions. I will be obliged to you, to set me down as subscriber for + half a dozen copies, and to ask Mr. Trumbull (No. 2, North street, + Rathbone Place) to pay you the whole subscription price for me, which he + will do on showing him this letter. These copies can be sent by the + Diligence. I have not yet received the pictures Mr. Trumbull was to send + me, nor consequently that of M. de la Fayette. I will take care of it when + it arrives. His title is simply, Le Marquis de la Fayette. + </p> + <p> + You ask, in your letter of April the 24th, details of my sufferings by + Colonel Tarleton. I did not suffer by him. On the contrary, he behaved + very genteelly with me. On his approach to Charlottesville, which is + within three miles of my house at Monticello, he despatched a troop of his + horse, under Captain McLeod, with the double object of taking me prisoner, + with the two Speakers of the Senate and Delegates, who then lodged with + me, and of remaining there in <i>vidette</i>, my house commanding a view + often or twelve miles round about. He gave strict orders to Captain McLeod + to suffer nothing to be injured. The troop failed in one of their objects, + as we had notice of their coming, so that the two Speakers had gone off + about two hours before their arrival at Monticello, and myself, with my + family, about five minutes. But Captain McLeod preserved every thing with + sacred care, during about eighteen hours that he remained there. Colonel + Tarleton was just so long at Charlottesville, being hurried from thence by + the news of the rising of the militia, and by a sudden fall of rain which + threatened to swell the river and intercept his return. In general he did + little injury to the inhabitants on that short and hasty excursion, which + was of about sixty miles from their main army, then in Spotsylvania, and + ours in Orange. It was early in June, 1781. Lord Cornwallis then proceeded + to the Point of Fork, and encamped his army from thence all along the main + James River, to a seat of mine called Elk-hill, opposite to Elk Island, + and a little below the mouth of the Byrd Creek. (You will see all these + places exactly laid down in the map annexed to my Notes on Virginia, + printed by Stockdale.) He remained in this position ten days, his own + head-quarters being in my house, at that place. I had time to remove most + of the effects out of the house. He destroyed all my growing crops of corn + and tobacco; he burned all my barns, containing the same articles of the + last year, having first taken what corn he wanted; he used, as was to be + expected, all my stock of cattle, sheep, and hogs, for the sustenance of + his army, and carried off all the horses capable of service; of those too + young for service he cut the throats; and he burned all the fences on the + plantation so as to leave it an absolute waste. He carried off also about + thirty slaves. Had this been to give them freedom, he would have done + right: but it was to consign them to inevitable death from the small-pox + and putrid fever, then raging in his camp. This I knew afterwards to be + the fate of twenty-seven of them. I never had news of the remaining three, + but presume they shared the same fate. When I say that Lord Cornwallis did + all this, I do not mean that he carried about the torch in his own hands, + but that it was all done under his eye; the situation of the house in + which he was, commanding a view of every part of the plantation, so that + he must have seen every fire. I relate these things on my own knowledge, + in a great degree, as I was on the ground soon after he left it. He + treated the rest of the neighborhood somewhat in the same style, but not + with that spirit of total extermination with which he seemed to rage over + my possessions. Wherever he went, the dwelling-houses were plundered of + every thing which could be carried off. Lord Cornwallis’s character in + England would forbid the belief that he shared in the plunder; but that + his table was served with the plate thus pillaged from private houses, can + be proved by many hundred eye-witnesses. From an estimate I made at that + time, on the best information I could collect, I supposed the State of + Virginia lost under Lord Cornwallis’s hands, that year, about thirty + thousand slaves; and that of these, about twenty-seven thousand died of + the small-pox and camp-fever, and the rest were partly sent to the West + Indies, and exchanged for rum, sugar, coffee, and fruit, and partly sent + to New York, from whence they went, at the peace, either to Nova Scotia or + England. From this last place, I believe they have been lately sent to + Africa. History will never relate the horrors committed by the British + army, in the southern States of America. They raged in Virginia six months + only, from the middle of April to the middle of October, 1781, when they + were all taken prisoners; and I give you a faithful specimen of their + transactions for ten days of that time, and on one spot only. <i>Ex pede + Herculem</i>. I suppose their whole devastations during those six months, + amounted to about three millions sterling. The copiousness of this subject + has only left me space to assure you of the sentiments of esteem and + respect, with which I am, Sir, your most obedient, humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0147" id="link2H_4_0147"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXLV.—TO JAMES MADISON, July 19, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO JAMES MADISON, <i>of William and Mary College</i>. + </p> + <p> + Paris, July 19, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + My last letter to you was of the 13th of August last. As you seem willing + to accept of the crumbs of science on which we are subsisting here, it is + with pleasure I continue to hand them on to you, in proportion as they are + dealt out. Herschel’s volcano in the moon you have doubtless heard of, and + placed among the other vagaries of a head, which seems not organized for + sound induction. The wildness of the theories hitherto proposed by him, on + his own discoveries, seems to authorize us to consider his merit as that + of a good optician only. You know also, that Doctor Ingenhouse had + discovered, as he supposed from experiment, that vegetation might be + promoted by occasioning streams of the electrical fluid to pass through a + plant, and that other physicians had received and confirmed this theory. + He now, however, retracts it, and finds by more decisive experiments, that + the electrical fluid can neither forward nor retard vegetation. + Uncorrected still of the rage of drawing general conclusions from partial + and equivocal observations, he hazards the opinion that light promotes + vegetation. I have heretofore supposed from observation, that light + affects the color of living bodies, whether vegetable or animal; but that + either the one or the other receives nutriment from that fluid, must be + permitted to be doubted of, till better confirmed by observation. It is + always better to have no ideas, than false ones; to believe nothing, than + to believe what is wrong. In my mind, theories are more easily demolished + than rebuilt. + </p> + <p> + An Abbe here, has shaken, if not destroyed, the theory of De Dominis, + Descartes and Newton, for explaining the phenomenon of the rainbow. + According to that theory, you know, a cone of rays issuing from the sun, + and falling on a cloud in the opposite part of the heavens, is reflected + back in the form of a smaller cone, the apex of which is the eye of the + observer: so that the eye of the observer must be in the axis of both + cones, and equally distant from every part of the bow. But he observes, + that he has repeatedly seen bows, the one end of which has been very near + to him, and the other at a very great distance. I have often seen the same + thing myself. I recollect well to have seen the end of a rainbow between + myself and a house, or between myself and a bank, not twenty yards + distant; and this repeatedly. But I never saw, what he says he has seen, + different rainbows at the same time, intersecting each other. I never saw + coexistent bows, which were not concentric also. Again, according to the + theory, if the sun is in the horizon, the horizon intercepts the lower + half of the bow, if above the horizon, that intercepts more than the half, + in proportion. So that generally the bow is less than a semicircle, and + never more. He says he has seen it more than a semicircle. I have often + seen the leg of the bow below my level. My situation at Monticello admits + this, because there is a mountain there in the opposite direction of the + afternoon’s sun, the valley between which and Monticello is five hundred + feet deep. I have seen a leg of a rainbow plunge down on the river running + through the valley. But I do not recollect to have remarked at any time, + that the bow was more than half a circle. It appears to me, that these + facts demolish the Newtonian hypothesis, but they do not support that + erected in its stead by the Abbe. He supposes a cloud between the sun and + observer, and that through some opening in that cloud, the rays pass, and + form an iris on the opposite part of the heavens, just as a ray passing + through a hole in the shutter of a darkened room, and falling on a prism + there, forms the prismatic colors on the opposite wall. According to this, + we might see bows of more than the half circle, as often as of less. A + thousand other objections occur to this hypothesis, which need not be + suggested to you. The result is, that we are wiser than we were, by having + an error the less in our catalogue; but the blank occasioned by it, must + remain for some happier hypothesist to fill up. + </p> + <p> + The dispute about the conversion and reconversion of water and air, is + still stoutly kept up. The contradictory experiments of chemists, leave us + at liberty to conclude what we please. My conclusion is, that art has not + yet invented sufficient aids, to enable such subtle bodies to make a well + defined impression on organs as blunt as ours: that it is laudable to + encourage investigation, but to hold back conclusion. Speaking one day + with Monsieur de Buffon on the present ardor of chemical inquiry, he + affected to consider chemistry but as cookery, and to place the toils of + the laboratory on a footing with those of the kitchen. I think it, on the + contrary, among the most useful of sciences, and big with future + discoveries for the utility and safety of the human race. It is yet, + indeed, a mere embryon. Its principles are contested; experiments seem + contradictory; their subjects are so minute as to escape our senses; and + their result too fallacious to satisfy the mind. It is probably an age too + soon, to propose the establishment of a system. The attempt, therefore, of + Lavoisier to reform the chemical nomenclature, is premature. One single + experiment may destroy the whole filiation of his terms, and his string of + sulfates, sulfiles, and sulfures may have served no other end, than to + have retarded the progress of the science, by a jargon, from the confusion + of which, time will be requisite to extricate us. Accordingly, it is not + likely to be admitted generally. + </p> + <p> + You are acquainted with the properties of the composition of nitre, salt + of tartar, and sulphur, called <i>pulvis fulminans</i>. Of this, the + explosion is produced by heat alone. Monsieur Bertholet, by dissolving + silver in the nitrous acid, precipitating it with lime-water, and drying + the precipitate on ammoniac, has discovered a powder, which fulminates + most powerfully, on coming into contact with any substance whatever. Once + made, it cannot be touched. It cannot be put into a bottle, but must + remain in the capsula, where dried. The property of the spathic acid, to + corrode flinty substances, has been lately applied by a Mr. Puymaurin, to + engrave on glass, as artists engrave on copper, with aquafortis. + </p> + <p> + M. de la Place has discovered, that the secular acceleration and + retardation of the moon’s motion, is occasioned by the action of the sun, + in proportion as his excentricity changes, or, in other words, as the + orbit of the earth increases or diminishes. So that this irregularity is + now perfectly calculable. + </p> + <p> + Having seen announced in a gazette, that some person had found, in a + library of Sicily, an Arabic translation of Livy, which was thought to be + complete, I got the <i>chargĂ© des affaires</i> of Naples here, to write to + Naples to inquire into the fact. He obtained in answer, that an Arabic + translation was found, and that it would restore to us seventeen of the + books lost, to wit, from the sixtieth to the seventy-seventh, inclusive: + that it was in possession of an Abbe Vella, who, as soon as he shall have + finished a work he has on hand, will give us an Italian, and perhaps a + Latin translation of this Livy. There are persons, however, who doubt the + truth of this discovery, founding their doubts on some personal + circumstances relating to the person who says he has this translation. I + find, nevertheless, that the <i>chargĂ© des affaires</i> believes in the + discovery, which makes me hope it may be true. + </p> + <p> + A countryman of ours, a Mr. Ledyard of Connecticut, set out from hence + some time ago for St. Petersburg, to go thence to Kamtschatka, thence to + cross over to the western coast of America, and penetrate through the + continent, to the other side of it. He had got within a few days’ journey + of Kamtschatka, when he was arrested by order of the Empress of Russia, + sent back, and turned adrift in Poland. He went to London; engaged under + the auspices of a private society, formed there for pushing discoveries + into Africa; passed by this place, which he left a few days ago for + Marseilles, where he will embark for Alexandria and Grand Cairo; thence + explore the Nile to its source; cross the head of the Niger, and descend + that to its mouth. He promises me, if he escapes through his journey, he + will go to Kentucky, and endeavor to penetrate westwardly to the South + Sea. + </p> + <p> + The death of M. de Buffon you have heard long ago. I do not know whether + we shall have anything posthumous of his. As to political news, this + country is making its way to a good constitution. The only danger is, they + may press so fast as to produce an appeal to arms, which might have an + unfavorable issue for them. As yet the appeal is not made. Perhaps the + war, which seems to be spreading from nation to nation, may reach them + this would insure the calling of the States General, and this, as is + supposed, the establishment of a constitution. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of sincere esteem and respect, + Dear Sir, your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0148" id="link2H_4_0148"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXLVI.—TO E. RUTLEDGE, July 18, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO E. RUTLEDGE. + </p> + <p> + Paris, July 18, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Messrs. Berard were to have given me particular accounts of the proceeds + of the shipments of rice made to them. But they have failed. I fear, from + what they mention, that the price has been less advantageous than usual; + which is unlucky, as it falls the first essay. If on the whole, however, + you get as much as you would have done by a sale on the spot, it should + encourage other adventures, because the price at Havre or Rouen is + commonly higher, and because I think you may, by trials, find out the way + to avail yourselves of the Paris retail price. The Carolina rice, sold at + Paris, is separated into three kinds; 1. the whole grains; 2. the broken + grains; 3. the small stuff; and sell at ten, eight, and six livres the + French pound, retail. The whole grains, which constitute the first + quality, are picked out by hand. I would not recommend this operation to + be done with you, because labor is dearer there than here. But I mention + these prices, to show, that after making a reasonable deduction for + sorting, and leaving a reasonable profit to the retailer, there should + still remain a great wholesale price. I shall wish to know from you, how + much your cargo of rice shipped to Berard netts you, and how much it would + have <i>netted</i> in hard money, if you had sold it at home. + </p> + <p> + You promise, in your letter of October the 23rd, 1787, to give me in your + next, at large, the conjectures of your philosopher on the descent of the + Creek Indians from the Carthaginians, supposed to have been separated from + Hanno’s fleet, during his periplus. I shall be very glad to receive them, + and see nothing impossible in his conjecture. I am glad he means to appeal + to similarity of language, which I consider as the strongest kind of proof + it is possible to adduce. I have somewhere read, that the language of the + ancient Carthaginians is still spoken by their descendants, inhabiting the + mountainous interior parts of Barbary, to which they were obliged to + retire by the conquering Arabs. If so, a vocabulary of their tongue can + still be got, and if your friend will get one of the Creek languages, the + comparison will decide. He probably may have made progress in this + business: but if he wishes any inquiries to be made on this side the + Atlantic, I offer him my services cheerfully; my wish being, like his to + ascertain the history of the American aborigines. + </p> + <p> + I congratulate you on the accesion of your State to the new federal + constitution. This is the last I have yet heard of, but I expect daily to + hear that my own has followed the good example, and suppose it to be + already established. Our government wanted bracing. Still we must take + care not to run from one extreme to another; not to brace too high. I own, + I join those in opinion, who think a bill of rights necessary. I apprehend + too, that the total abandonment of the principle of rotation in the + offices of President and Senator, will end in abuse. But my confidence is, + that there will, for a long time, be virtue and good sense enough in our + countrymen, to correct abuses. We can surely boast of having set the world + a beautiful example of a government reformed by reason alone, without + bloodshed. But the world is too far oppressed to profit by the example. On + this side of the Atlantic, the blood of the people has become an + inheritance, and those who fatten on it, will not relinquish it easily. + The struggle in this country is, as yet, of doubtful issue. It is, in + fact, between the monarchy and the parliaments. The nation is no otherwise + concerned, but as both parties may be induced to let go some of its + abuses, to court the public favor. The danger is, that the people, + deceived by a false cry of liberty, may be led to take side with one + party, and thus give the other a pretext for crushing them still more. If + they can avoid the appeal to arms, the nation will be sure to gain much by + this controversy. But if that appeal is made, it will depend entirely on + the disposition of the army, whether it issue in liberty or despotism. + Those dispositions are not as yet known. In the mean time, there is great + probability that the war kindled in the east, will spread from nation to + nation, and, in the long run, become general. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + I am, with the most sincere esteem and attachment, my dear; Sir, your + friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0149" id="link2H_4_0149"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXLVII.—TO MR. BELLINI, July 25,1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO MR. BELLINI. + </p> + <p> + Paris, July 25,1788. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Though I have written to you seldom, you are often the object of my + thoughts, and always of my affection. The truth is, that the circumstances + with which I am surrounded, offer little worth detailing to you. You are + too wise to feel an interest in the squabbles, in which the pride, the + dissipations, and the tyranny of kings, keep this hemisphere constantly + embroiled. Science, indeed, finds some aliment here, and you are one of + her sons. But this I have pretty regularly communicated to Mr. Madison, + with whom, I am sure, you participate of it. It is with sincere pleasure I + congratulate you on the good fortune of our friend Mazzei, who is + appointed here, to correspond with the King of Poland. The particular + character given him is not well defined, but the salary is, which is more + important. It is eight thousand livres a year, which will enable him to + live comfortably, while his duties will find him that occupation, without + which he cannot exist. Whilst this appointment places him at his ease, it + affords a hope of permanence also. It suspends, if not entirely prevents, + the visit he had intended to his native country, and the return to his + adoptive one, which the death of his wife had rendered possible. This last + event has given him three quarters of the globe elbow-room, which he had + ceded to her, on condition she would leave him quiet in the fourth. Their + partition of the next world will be more difficult, if it be divided only + into two parts, according to the protestant faith. Having seen by a letter + you wrote him, that you were in want of a pair of spectacles, I undertook + to procure you some, which I packed in a box of books addressed to Mr. + Wythe, and of which I beg your acceptance. This box lay forgotten at Havre + the whole of the last winter, but was at length shipped, and I trust has + come to hand. I packed with the spectacles three or four pair of glasses, + adapted to the different periods of life, distinguished from each other by + numbers, and easily changed. You see I am looking forward in hope of a + long life for you; and that it may be long enough to carry you through the + whole succession of glasses, is my sincere prayer. Present me respectfully + to Mrs. Bellini, assure her of my affectionate remembrance of her, and my + wishes for her health and happiness; and accept yourself very sincere + professions of the esteem and attachment with which I am, Dear Sir, your + affectionate friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0150" id="link2H_4_0150"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXLVIII.—TO JAMES MADISON, July 31, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO JAMES MADISON. + </p> + <p> + Paris, July 31, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + My last letters to you were of the 3rd and the 25th of May. Yours from + Orange, of April the 22nd, came to hand on the 10th instant. + </p> + <p> + My letter to Mr. Jay containing all the public news that is well + authenticated, I will not repeat it here, but add some details in the + smaller way, which you may be glad to know. The disgrace of the Marquis de + la Fayette, which, at any other period of their history, would have had + the worst consequences for him, will, on the contrary, mark him favorably + to the nation, at present. During the present administration, he can + expect nothing; but perhaps it may serve him with their successors, + whenever a change shall take place. No change of the Principal will + probably take place, before the meeting of the States General; though a + change is to be wished, for his operations do not answer the expectations + formed of him. These had been calculated, on his brilliancy in society. He + is very feebly aided too. Montmorin is weak, though a most worthy + character. He is indolent and inattentive too, in the extreme. Luzerne is + considerably inferior in abilities to his brother, whom you know. He is a + good man too, but so much out of his element, that he has the air of one + <i>huskanoyed</i>. The <i>Garde des Sceaux</i> is considered as the + Principal’s bull-dog, braving danger like the animal. His talents do not + pass mediocrity. The Archbishop’s brother, and the new minister + Villedeuil, and Lambert, have no will of their own. They cannot raise + money for the peace establishment the next year, without the States + General; much less if there be war; and their administration will probably + end with the States General. + </p> + <p> + Littlepage, who was here as a secret agent for the King of Poland, rather + overreached himself. He wanted more money. The King furnished it, more + than once. Still he wanted more, and thought to obtain a high bid, by + saying he was called for in America, and asking leave to go there. + Contrary to his expectation, he received leave; but he went to Warsaw + instead of America, and from thence, to join the * * * * I do not know + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [* Several paragraphs of this letter are in cipher, A few + words here could not be deciphered.] +</pre> + <p> + these facts certainly, but collect them, by putting several things + together. The King then sent an ancient secretary here, in whom he had + much confidence, to look out for a correspondent, a mere letter-writer for + him. A happy hazard threw Mazzei in his way. He recommended him, and he is + appointed. He has no diplomatic character whatever, but is to receive + eight thousand livres a year, as an intelligencer. I hope this employment + may have some permanence. The danger is, that he will over-act his part. + </p> + <p> + The Marquis de la Luzerne had been for many years married to his brother’s + wife’s sister, secretly. She was ugly and deformed, but sensible, amiable, + and rather rich. When he was ambassador to London, with ten thousand + guineas a year, the marriage was avowed, and he relinquished his cross of + Malta, from which he derived a handsome revenue for life, and which was + very open to advancement. Not long ago, she died. His real affection for + her, which was great and unfeigned, and perhaps the loss of his order, for + so short-lived a satisfaction, has thrown him almost into a state of + despondency. He is now here. + </p> + <p> + I send you a book of Dupont’s, on the subject of the commercial treaty + with England. Though its general matter may not be interesting, yet you + will pick up, in various parts of it, such excellent principles and + observations, as will richly repay the trouble of reading it. I send you, + also, two little pamphlets of the Marquis de Condorcet, wherein is the + most judicious statement I have seen, of the great questions which agitate + this nation at present. The new regulations present a preponderance of + good over their evil; but they suppose that the King can model the + constitution at will, or, in other words, that his government is a pure + despotism. The question then arising is, whether a pure despotism in a + single head, or one which is divided among a king, nobles, priesthood, and + numerous magistracy, is the least bad. I should be puzzled to decide: but + I hope they will have neither, and that they are advancing to a limited, + moderate government, in which the people will have a good share. + </p> + <p> + I sincerely rejoice at the acceptance of our new constitution by nine + States. It is a good canvass, on which some strokes only want retouching. + What these are, I think are sufficiently manifested by the general voice + from north to south, which calls for a bill of rights. It seems pretty + generally understood, that this should go to juries, <i>habeas corpus</i>, + standing armies, printing, religion, and monopolies. I conceive there may + be difficulty in finding general modifications of these, suited to the + habits of all the States. But if such cannot be found, then it is better + to establish trials by jury, the right of <i>habeas corpus</i>, freedom of + the press, and freedom of religion, in all cases, and to abolish standing + armies in time of peace, and monopolies in all cases, than not to do it in + any. The few cases wherein these things may do evil, cannot be weighed + against the multitude, wherein the want of them will do evil. In disputes + between a foreigner and a native, a trial by jury may be improper. But if + this exception cannot be agreed to, the remedy will be to model the jury, + by giving the <i>medietas linguæ</i>, in civil as well as criminal cases. + Why suspend the <i>habeas corpus</i> in insurrections and rebellions? The + parties who may be arrested, may be charged instantly with a well-defined + crime: of course, the judge will remand them. If the public safety + requires, that the government should have a man imprisoned on less + probable testimony in those than in other emergencies, let him be taken + and tried, retaken and retried, while the necessity continues, only giving + him redress against the government, for damages. Examine the history of + England. See how few of the cases of the suspension of the <i>habeas + corpus</i> law have been worthy of that suspension. They have been either + real treason, wherein the parties might as well have been charged at once, + or sham plots, where it was shameful they should ever have been suspected. + Yet for the few cases, wherein the suspension of the <i>habeas corpus</i> + has done real good, that operation is now become habitual, and the minds + of the nation almost prepared to live under its constant suspension. A + declaration, that the federal government will never restrain the presses + from printing any thing they please, will not take away the liability of + the printers for false facts printed. The declaration, that religious + faith shall be unpunished, does not give impunity to criminal acts, + dictated by religious error. The saying—there shall be no + monopolies, lessens the incitements to ingenuity, which is spurred on by + the hope of a monopoly for a limited time, as of fourteen years; but the + benefit of even limited monopolies is too doubtful, to be opposed to that + of their general suppression. If no check can be found to keep the number + of standing troops within safe bounds, while they are tolerated as far as + necessary, abandon them altogether, discipline well the militia, and guard + the magazines with them. More than magazine guards will be useless, if + few, and dangerous, if many. No European nation can ever send against us + such a regular army as we need fear, and it is hard, if our militia are + not equal to those of Canada or Florida. My idea then, is, that though + proper exceptions to these general rules are desirable, and probably + practicable, yet if the exceptions cannot be agreed on, the establishment + of the rules, in all cases, will do ill in very few. I hope, therefore, a + bill of rights will be formed, to guard the people against the federal + government, as they are already guarded against their State governments, + in most instances. The abandoning the principle of necessary rotation in + the Senate, has, I see, been disapproved by many: in the case of the + President, by none. I readily, therefore, suppose my opinion wrong, when + opposed by the majority, as in the former instance, and the totality, as + in the latter. In this, however, I should have done it with more complete + satisfaction, had we all judged from the same position. + </p> + <p> + Solicitations, which cannot be directly refused, oblige me to trouble you + often with letters, recommending and introducing to you persons who go + from hence to America. I will beg the favor of you to distinguish the + letters wherein I appeal to recommendations from other persons, from those + which I write on my own knowledge. In the former, it is never my intention + to compromit myself or you. In both instances, I must beg you to ascribe + the trouble I give you, to circumstances which do not leave me at liberty + to decline it. + </p> + <p> + I am, with very sincere esteem, Dear Sir, your affectionate friend and + servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0151" id="link2H_4_0151"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXLIX.—TO JOHN JAY, August 3, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 3, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + My last letters to you were of the 4th and 23d of May, with a Postscript + of the 27th. Since that, I have been honored with yours of April the 24th, + May the 16th, and June the 9th. + </p> + <p> + The most remarkable internal occurrences since my last are these. The <i>Noblesse</i> + of Bretagne, who had received with so much warmth the late innovations in + the government, assembled, and drew up a memorial to the King, and chose + twelve members of their body to come and present it. Among these was the + Marquis de la Rouerie (Colonel Armand). The King, considering the <i>Noblesse</i> + as having no legal right to assemble, declined receiving the memorial. The + deputies, to give greater weight to it, called a meeting of the landed + proprietors of Bretagne, resident at Paris, and proposed to them to add + their signatures—They did so, to the number of about sixty, of whom + the Marquis de la Fayette was one. The twelve deputies, for having called + this meeting, were immediately sent to the Bastile where they now are, and + the Parisian signers were deprived of such favors as they held of the + court. There were only four of them, however, who held any thing of that + kind. The Marquis de la Fayette was one of these. They had given him a + military command, to be exercised in the south of France, during the + months of August and September of the present year. This they took from + him; so that he is disgraced, in the ancient language of the court, but in + truth, honorably marked in the eyes of the nation. The ministers are so + sensible of this, that they have had, separately, private conferences with + him, to endeavor, through him, to keep things quiet. From the character of + the province of Bretagne, it was much apprehended, for some days, that the + imprisonment of their deputies would have produced an insurrection. But it + took another turn. The <i>Cours intermĂ©diaire</i> of the province, + acknowledged to be a legal body, deputed eighteen members of their body to + the King. To these he gave an audience, and the answer, of which I send + you a copy. This is hard enough. Yet I am in hopes the appeal to the sword + will be avoided, and great modifications in the government be obtained + without bloodshed. As yet none has been spilt, according to the best + evidence I have been able to obtain, notwithstanding what the foreign + newspapers have said to the contrary. The convocation of the States + General has now become inevitable. Whenever the time shall be announced + certainly, it will keep the nation quiet till they meet. According to + present probabilities, this must be in the course of the next summer; but + to what movements their meeting and measures may give occasion, cannot be + foreseen. Should a foreign war take place, still they must assemble the + States General, because they cannot, but by their aid, obtain money to + carry it on. Monsieur de Malesherbes will, I believe, retire from the + King’s Council. He has been much opposed to the late acts of authority. + The Baron de Breteuil has resigned his secretaryship of the domestic + department; certainly not for the same reasons, as he is known to have + been of opinion, that the King had compromitted too much of his authority. + The real reason has probably been, an impatience of acting under a + principal minister. His successor is M. de Villedeuil, lately Comptroller + General. + </p> + <p> + The ambassadors of Tippoo Saib have arrived here. If their mission has any + other object than that of pomp and ceremony, it is not yet made known. + Though this court has not avowed that they are in possession of + Trincomale, yet the report is believed, and that possession was taken by + General Conway, in consequence of orders given in the moment that they + thought a war certain. The dispute with the States General of the United + Netherlands, on account of the insult to M. de St. Priest, does not tend + as yet towards a settlement. He has obtained leave to go to the waters, + and perhaps from thence he may come to Paris, to await events. Sweden has + commenced hostilities against Russia, by the taking a little fortress by + land. This having been their intention, it is wonderful, that when their + fleet lately met three Russian ships of one hundred guns each, they + saluted instead of taking them. The Empress has declared war against them + in her turn. It is well understood, that Sweden is set on by England, and + paid by the Turks. The prospect of Russia has much brightened by some late + successes. Their fleet of galleys and gun-boats, twenty-seven in number, + having been attacked by fifty-seven Turkish vessels of the same kind, + commanded by the Captain Pacha, these were repulsed, with the loss of + three vessels. In the action, which was on the 18th of June, Admiral Paul + Jones commanded the right wing of the Russians, and the Prince of Nassau + the left. On the 26th of the same month, the Turkish principal fleet, that + is to say, their ships of the line, frigates, &c, having got + themselves near the swash, at the mouth of the Borysthenes, the Prince of + Nassau took advantage of their position, attacked them while so engaged in + the mud that they could not manoeuvre, burnt six, among which were the + admiral’s and vice-admiral’s, took two, and made between three and four + thousand prisoners. The first reports gave this success to Admiral Paul + Jones; but it is now rendered rather probable that he was not there, as he + commands the vessels of war which are said not to have been there. It is + supposed, that his presence in the affair of the 18th was accidental. But + if this success has been so complete as it is represented, the Black Sea + must be tolerably open to the Russians: in which case, we may expect, from + what we know of that officer, that he will improve to the greatest + advantage the situation of things on that sea. The Captain Pacha’s + standard was taken in the last action, and himself obliged to make his + escape in a small vessel. Prince Potemkin immediately got under march for + Oczakow, to take advantage of the consternation into which that place was + thrown. + </p> + <p> + The Spanish squadron, after cruising off the Western Isles and Cape St. + Vincent, has returned into port. + </p> + <p> + A dispute has arisen between the Papal See and the King of Naples, which + may, in its progress, enable us to estimate what degree of influence that + See retains at the present day. The kingdom of Naples, at an early period + of its history, became feudatory to the See of Rome, and in acknowledgment + thereof, has annually paid a hackney to the Pope in Rome, to which place + it has always been sent by a splendid embassy. The hackney has been + refused by the King this year, and the Pope, giving him three months to + return to obedience, threatens, if he does not, to proceed seriously + against him. + </p> + <p> + About three weeks ago a person called on me, and informed me, that Silas + Deane had taken him in for a sum of one hundred and twenty guineas, and + that being unable to obtain any other satisfaction, he had laid hands on + his account book and letter book, and had brought them off to Paris, to + offer them first to the United States, if they would repay him his money, + and if not, that he should return to London, and offer them to the British + minister. I desired him to leave them with me four and twenty hours, that + I might judge whether they were worth our notice. He did so. They were two + volumes. One contained all his accounts with the United States, from his + first coming to Europe to January the 10th, 1781. Presuming that the + treasury board was in possession of this account till his arrival in + Philadelphia, August, 1778, and that he had never given in the subsequent + part, I had that subsequent part copied from the book, and now enclose it, + as it may on some occasion or other, perhaps, be useful in the treasury + office. The other volume contained all his correspondences from March the + 30th to August the 23d, 1777. I had a list of the letters taken by their + dates and addresses, which will enable you to form a general idea of the + collection. On perusal of many of them, I thought it desirable that they + should not come to the hands of the British minister, and from an + expression dropped by the possessor of them, I believe he would have + fallen to fifty or sixty guineas. I did not think them important enough, + however, to justify my purchasing them without authority; though, with + authority, I should have done it. Indeed, I would have given that sum to + cut out a single sentence, which contained evidence of a fact, not proper + to be committed to the hands of enemies. I told him I would state his + proposition to you, and await orders. I gave him back the books, and he + returned to London without making any promise, that he would await the + event of the orders you might think proper to give. + </p> + <p> + News of the accession of nine States to the new form of federal government + has been received here about a week. I have the honor to congratulate you + sincerely on this event. Of its effect at home, you are in the best + situation to judge. On this side the Atlantic, it is considered as a very + wise reformation. In consequence of this, speculations are already begun + here, to purchase up our domestic liquidated debt. Indeed, I suspect that + orders may have been previously lodged in America to do this, as soon as + the new constitution was accepted effectually. If it is thought that this + debt should be retained at home, there is not a moment to lose; and I know + of no means of retaining it, but those I suggested to the treasury board, + in my letter to them of March the 29th. The transfer of these debts to + Europe will excessively embarrass, and perhaps totally prevent the + borrowing any money in Europe, till these shall be paid off. This is a + momentous object, and, in my opinion, should receive instantaneous + attention. + </p> + <p> + The gazettes of France, to the departure of my letter, will accompany it, + and those of Leyden to the 22nd of July, at which time their distribution + in this country was prohibited. How long the prohibition may continue, I + cannot tell. As far as I can judge, it is the only paper in Europe worth + reading. Since the suppression of the packet-boats, I have never been able + to find a safe conveyance for a letter to you, till the present by Mrs. + Barclay. Whenever a confidential person shall be going from hence to + London, I shall send my letters for you to the care of Mr. Trumbull, who + will look out for safe conveyances. This will render the epochs of my + writing very irregular. There is a proposition under consideration, for + establishing packet-boats on a more economical plan, from Havre to Boston; + but its success is uncertain, and still more, its duration. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect esteem and + respect, Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0152" id="link2H_4_0152"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CL.—TO COLONEL MONROE, August 9, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO COLONEL MONROE. + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 9, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Since my last to you, I have to thank your for your favors of July the + 27th, 1787, and April the 10th, 1788, and the details they contained; and + in return, will give you now the leading circumstances of this continent. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + This nation is at present under great internal agitation. The authority of + the crown on one part, and that of the parliaments on the other, are + fairly at issue. Good men take part with neither, but have raised an + opposition, the object of which is to obtain a fixed and temperate + constitution. There was a moment when this opposition ran so high, as to + endanger an appeal to arms, in which case, perhaps, it would have been + crushed. The moderation of government has avoided this, and they are + yielding daily one right after another to the nation. They have given them + Provincial Assemblies, which will be very perfect representations of the + nation, and stand somewhat in the place of our State Assemblies; they have + reformed the criminal law; acknowledged the King cannot lay a new tax, + without the consent of the States General; and they will call the States + General the next year. The object of this body, when met, will be a bill + of rights, a civil list, a national assembly meeting at certain epochs, + and some other matters of that kind. So that I think it probable this + country will, within two or three years, be in the enjoyment of a + tolerably free constitution, and that without its having cost them a drop + of blood; for none has yet been spilt, though the English papers have set + the whole nation to cutting throats. + </p> + <p> + Be assured of those sentiments of esteem and attachment, with which I am, + Dear Sir, your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0153" id="link2H_4_0153"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLI.—TO MONSIEUR DE CREVE-COEUR, August 9, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO MONSIEUR DE CREVE-COEUR. + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 9, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + While our second revolution is just brought to a happy end with you, yours + here is but cleverly under way. For some days I was really melancholy with + the apprehension, that arms would be appealed to, and the opposition + crushed in its first efforts. But things seem now to wear a better aspect. + While the opposition keeps at its highest wholesome point, government, + unwilling to draw the sword, is not forced to do it. The contest here is + exactly what it was in Holland: a contest between the monarchical and + aristocratical parts of the government for a monopoly of despotism over + the people. The aristocracy in Holland, seeing that their common prey was + likely to escape out of their clutches, chose rather to retain its former + portion, and therefore coalesced with the single head. The people remained + victims. Here, I think, it will take a happier turn. The parliamentary + part of the aristocracy is alone firmly united. The <i>Noblesse</i> and + Clergy, but especially the former, are divided partly between the + parliamentary and the despotic party, and partly united with the real + patriots, who are endeavoring to gain for the nation what they can, both + from the parliamentary and the single despotism. I think I am not mistaken + in believing, that the King and some of his ministers are well affected to + this band; and surely, that they will make great cessions to the people, + rather than small ones to the parliament. They are, accordingly, yielding + daily to the national reclamations, and will probably end in according a + well-tempered constitution. They promise the States General for the next + year, and I have good information that an ArrĂŞt will appear the day after + to-morrow, announcing them for May, 1789. How they will be composed, and + what they will do, cannot be foreseen. Their convocation, however, will + tranquillize the public mind, in a great degree, till their meeting. There + are, however, two intervening difficulties. 1. Justice cannot till then + continue completely suspended, as it now is. The parliament will not + resume their functions, but in their entire body. The <i>bailliages</i> + are afraid to accept of them. What will be done? 2. There are well-founded + fears of a bankruptcy before the month of May. In the mean time, the war + is spreading from nation to nation. Sweden has commenced hostilities + against Russia; Denmark is showing its teeth against Sweden; Prussia + against Denmark; and England too deeply engaged in playing the back game, + to avoid coming forward, and dragging this country and Spain in with her. + But even war will not prevent the assembly of the States General, because + it cannot be carried on without them. War, however, is not the most + favorable moment for divesting the monarchy of power. On the contrary, it + is the moment when the energy of a single hand shows itself in the most + seducing form. + </p> + <p> + A very considerable portion of this country has been desolated by a hail. + I considered the newspaper accounts of hailstones of ten pounds weight as + exaggerations. But in a conversation with the Duke de la Rochefoucault the + other day, he assured me, that though he could not say he had seen such + himself, yet he considered the fact as perfectly established. Great + contributions, public and private, are making for the sufferers. But they + will be like the drop of water from the finger of Lazarus. There is no + remedy for the present evil, nor way to prevent future ones, but to bring + the people to such a state of ease, as not to be ruined by the loss of a + single crop. This hail may be considered as the <i>coup de grace</i> to an + expiring victim. In the arts there is nothing new discovered since you + left us, which is worth communicating. Mr. Paine’s iron bridge was + exhibited here with great approbation. An idea has been encouraged of + executing it in three arches at the King’s garden. But it will probably + not be done. + </p> + <p> + I am, with sentiments of perfect esteem and attachment, Dear Sir, your + most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0154" id="link2H_4_0154"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLII.—TO JOHN JAY, August 10, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 10, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have waited till the last moment of Mrs. Barclay’s departure, to write + you the occurrences since my letter of the 3rd instant. We have received + the Swedish account of an engagement between their fleet and the Russian, + on the Baltic, wherein they say they took one, and burned another Russian + vessel, with the loss of one on their side, and that the victory remained + with them. They say, at the same time, that their fleet returned into + port, and the Russians kept the sea; we must, therefore, suspend our + opinion till we get the Russian version of this engagement. The Swedish + manifesto was handed about to-day at Versailles, by the Swedish + ambassador, in manuscript. The King complains that Russia has been ever + endeavoring to sow divisions in his kingdom, in order to re-establish the + ancient constitution; that he has long borne it, through a love of peace, + but finds it no longer bearable: that still, however, he will make peace + on these conditions; 1. That the Empress punishes her minister for the + note he gave in to the court of Stockholm; 2. that she restore Crimea to + the Turks; and 3. that she repay to him all the expenses of his armament. + The Russian force, in vessels of war on the Black Sea, are five frigates, + and three ships of the line; but those of the line are shut up in port, + and cannot come out till Oczakow shall be taken. This fleet is commanded + by Paul Jones, with the rank of rear-admiral. The Prince of Nassau + commands the galleys and gun-boats. It is now ascertained, that the States + General will assemble the next year, and probably in the month of May. + Tippoo Saib’s ambassadors had their reception to-day at Versailles with + unusual pomp. The presence was so numerous, that little could be caught of + what they said to the king, and he answered to them: from what little I + could hear, nothing more passed than mutual assurances of good will. The + name of the Marechal de Richelieu is sufficiently remarkable in history, + to justify my mentioning his death, which happened two days ago; he was + aged ninety-two years. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect esteem and + respect, Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0155" id="link2H_4_0155"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLIII.—TO JOHN JAY, August 11, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 11, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + In my letter of the last night, written in the moment of Mrs. Barclay’s + departure, I had the honor of mentioning to you, that it was now pretty + certain that the States General would be assembled in the next year, and + probably in the month of May. This morning an <i>ArrĂŞt</i> is published, + announcing that their meeting is fixed on the first day of May next, of + which I enclose you a copy by post, in hopes it will get to Bordeaux in + time for Mrs. Barclay. This <i>ArrĂŞt</i> ought to have a great effect + towards tranquillizing the nation. There are still, however, two + circumstances which must continue to perplex the administration. The first + is, the want of money, occasioned not only by the difficulty of filling up + the loan of the next year, but by the withholding the ordinary supplies of + taxes, which is said to have taken place in some instances: this gives + apprehension of a bankruptcy under some form or other, and has occasioned + the stocks to fall, in the most alarming manner. The second circumstance + is, that justice, both civil and criminal, continues suspended. The + parliament will not resume their functions, but with their whole body, and + the greater part of the <i>bailliages</i> declined acting; the present <i>ArrĂŞt</i> + announces a perseverance in this plan. I have information from Algiers, of + the 5th of June, that the plague is raging there, with great violence; + that one of our captives was dead of it, and another ill, so that we have + there, in all, now, only fifteen or sixteen; that the captives are more + exposed to its ravages, than others; that the great redemptions by the + Spaniards, Portuguese, and Neapolitans, and the havoc made by the plague, + had now left not more than four hundred slaves in Algiers; so that their + redemption was become not only exorbitant, but almost inadmissible; that + common sailors were held at four hundred pounds sterling, and that our + fifteen or sixteen could probably not be redeemed for less than from + twenty-five to thirty thousand dollars. An Algerine cruiser, having + twenty-eight captives of Genoa aboard, was lately chased ashore, by two + Neapolitan vessels: the crew and captives got safe ashore, and the latter, + of course, recovered their freedom. The Algerine crew was well treated, + and would be sent back by the French. But the government of Algiers + demands of France, sixty thousand sequins, or twenty-seven thousand pounds + sterling, for the captives escaped; that is, nearly one thousand pounds + each. The greater part of the regency were for an immediate declaration of + war against France; but the Dey urged the heavy war the Turks were at + present engaged in; that it would be better not to draw another power on + them, at present; that they would decline renewing the treaty of one + hundred years, which expired two years ago, so as to be free to act + hereafter; but, for the present, they ought to accept payment for the + captives, as a satisfaction. They accordingly declared to the French + consul, that they would put him, and all his countrymen there, into irons, + unless the sixty thousand sequins were paid: the consul told them, his + instructions were, positively, that they should not be paid. In this + situation stood matters between that pettifogging nest of robbers and this + great kingdom, which will finish, probably, by crouching under them, and + paying the sixty thousand sequins. From the personal characters of the + present administration, I should have hoped, under any other situation + than the present, they might have ventured to quit the beaten track of + politics hitherto pursued, in which the honor of their nation has been + calculated at nought, and to join in a league for keeping up a perpetual + cruise against these pirates, which, though a slow operation, would be a + sure one for destroying all their vessels and seamen, and turning the rest + of them to agriculture. But a desire of not bringing upon themselves + another difficulty, will probably induce the ministers to do as their + predecessors have done. + </p> + <p> + August 12. The enclosed paper of this morning gives some particulars of + the action between the Russians and Swedes, the manifesto of the Empress, + and the declaration of the court of Versailles, as to the affair of + Trincomale. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of perfect esteem and respect, + Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0156" id="link2H_4_0156"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLIV.—TO WILLIAM CARMICHAEL, August 12, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO WILLIAM CARMICHAEL. + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 12, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Since my last to you, I have been honored with yours of the 18th and 29th + of May, and 5th of June. My latest American intelligence is of the 24th of + June, when nine certainly, and probably ten States, had accepted the new + constitution, and there was no doubt of the eleventh (North Carolina), + because there was no opposition there. In New York, two thirds of the + State were against it, and certainly if they had been called to the + decision, in any other stage of the business, they would have rejected it; + but before they put it to the vote, they would certainly have heard that + eleven States had joined in it, and they would find it safer to go with + those eleven, than put themselves into opposition, with Rhode Island only. + Though I am much pleased with this successful issue of the new + constitution, yet I am more so, to find that one of its principal defects + (the want of a declaration of rights) will pretty certainly be remedied. I + suppose this, because I see that both people and conventions, in almost + every State, have concurred in demanding it. Another defect, the perpetual + re-eligibility of the same President, will probably not be cured, during + the life of General Washington. His merit has blinded our countrymen to + the danger of making so important an officer re-eligible. I presume there + will not be a vote against him, in the United States. It is more doubtful, + who will be Vice-President. The age of Dr. Franklin, and the doubt whether + he would accept it, are the only circumstances that admit a question, but + that he would be the man. After these two characters of first magnitude, + there are so many which present themselves equally, on the second line, + that we cannot see which of them will be singled out. John Adams, Hancock, + Jay, Madison, Rutledge, will be all voted for. Congress has acceded to the + prayer of Kentucky to become an independent member of the Union. A + committee was occupied in settling the plan of receiving them, and their + government is to commence on the 1st day of January next. + </p> + <p> + You are, I dare say, pleased, as I am, with the promotion of our + countryman, Paul Jones. He commanded the right wing, in the first + engagement between the Russian and Turkish galleys; his absence from the + second, proves his superiority over the Captain Pacha, as he did not + choose to bring his ships into the shoals in which the Pacha ventured, and + lost those entrusted to him. I consider this officer as the principal hope + of our future efforts on the ocean. You will have heard of the action + between the Swedes and Russians, on the Baltic; as yet, we have only the + Swedish version of it. I apprehend this war must catch from nation to + nation, till it becomes general. + </p> + <p> + With respect to the internal affairs of this country, I hope they will be + finally well arranged, and without having cost a drop of blood. Looking on + as a by-stander, no otherwise interested, than as entertaining a sincere + love for the nation in general, and a wish to see their happiness + promoted, keeping myself clear of the particular views and passions of + individuals, I applaud extremely the patriotic proceedings of the present + ministry. Provincial Assemblies established, the States General called, + the right of taxing the nation without their consent abandoned, <i>corvĂ©es</i> + abolished, torture abolished, the criminal code reformed, are facts which + will do eternal honor to their administration, in history. But were I + their historian, I should not equally applaud their total abandonment of + their foreign affairs. A bolder front in the beginning, would have + prevented the first loss, and consequently, all the others. Holland, + Prussia, Turkey, and Sweden, lost without the acquisition of a single new + ally, are painful reflections for the friends of France. They may, indeed, + have in their places the two empires, and perhaps Denmark; in which case, + physically speaking, they will stand on as good ground as before, but not + on as good moral ground. Perhaps, seeing more of the internal working of + the machine, they saw, more than we do, the physical impossibility of + having money to carry on a war. Their justification must depend on this, + and their atonement, on the internal good they are doing to their country; + this makes me completely their friend. + </p> + <p> + I am, with great esteem and attachment, Dear Sir, you friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0157" id="link2H_4_0157"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLV.—TO M. CATHALAN, August 13,1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO M. CATHALAN. + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 13,1788. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have to acknowledge the receipt of your two favors, of June, and July + the 11th, and to thank you for the political intelligence they contained, + which is always interesting to me. I will ask a continuance of them, and + especially that you inform me, from time to time, of the movements in the + ports of Marseilles and Toulon, which may seem to indicate peace or war. + These are the most certain presages possible; and being conveyed to me + from all the ports, they will always enable me to judge of the intentions + or expectations of the ministry, and to notify you of the result of the + intelligence from all the ports, that you may communicate it to the + American commerce. + </p> + <p> + I have the pleasure to inform you, that the new constitution proposed to + the United States, has been established by the votes of nine States. It is + happy for us to get this operation over before the war kindled in Europe + could affect us, as by rendering us more respectable, we shall be more + probably permitted, by all parties, to remain neutral. + </p> + <p> + I take the liberty of putting under your cover a letter for Mr. Bernard, + containing some seeds, and another to Giuseppe Chiappe, our consul at + Mogadore. I thank you for your settlement of the price of the <i>Observations + MĂ©tĂ©orologiques</i>, and I have repaid the sixty livres to Sir John + Lambert, in your name. When the nursery man, whom you have been so good as + to employ to prepare the olives and olive plants, to be sent to + Charleston, shall be executing that commission, I shall be glad if he + will, at the same time, prepare a few plants only, of the following kinds. + Figs, the best kind for drying, and the best kind for eating fresh, + raisins, the best kind for drying, prugnolles, cork trees, pistaches, + capers. I desire only a few plants of each of these, that they may not + take too much of the place of the olives, which is our great object, and + the sole one we have at heart. If you will be so good as to give the + nursery man this order immediately, it will save you the necessity of + recurring to my letter, when the season comes. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with great and sincere esteem, Sir, your most + obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0158" id="link2H_4_0158"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLVI.—TO JOHN JAY, August 20,1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 20,1788. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I had the honor to write to you on the 3rd, 10th, and 11th instant, with a + postscript of the 12th; all of which went by Mrs. Barclay. Since that + date, we have received an account of a third victory obtained by the + Russians over the Turks, on the Black Sea, in which the Prince of Nassau, + with his galleys, destroyed two frigates, three smaller vessels, and six + galleys. The Turkish power on that sea is represented, by their enemies, + as now annihilated. There is reason to believe, however, that this is not + literally true, and that aided by the supplies furnished by the English, + they are making extraordinary efforts to re-establish their marine. The + Russian minister here has shown the official report of Admiral Greigh, on + the combat of July the 17th, in which he claims the victory, and urges in + proof of it, that he kept the field of battle. This report is said to have + been written on it. As this paper, together with the report of the Swedish + admiral, is printed in the Leyden gazette of the 15th instant, I enclose + it to you. The court of Denmark has declared, it will furnish Russia the + aid stipulated in their treaty: and it is not doubted they will go beyond + this, and become principals in the war. The next probable moves are, that + the King of Prussia will succor Sweden; and Poland, Russia, by land: and a + possible consequence is, that England may send a squadron into the Baltic, + to restore equilibrium in that sea. In my letter of the 11th, I observed + to you, that this country would have two difficulties to struggle with, + till the meeting of their States General, and that one of these was the + want of money: this has, in fact, overborne all their resources, and the + day before yesterday, they published an <i>ArrĂŞt</i>, suspending all + reimbursements of capital, and reducing the payments of the principal mass + of demands for interest, to twelve sous in the livre; the remaining eight + sous to be paid with certificates. I enclose you a newspaper with the <i>ArrĂŞt</i>. + In this paper you will see the exchange of yesterday, and I have inserted + that of the day before, to show you the fall. The consternation is, as + yet, too great to let us judge of the issue. It will probably ripen the + public mind to the necessity of a change in their constitution, and to the + substituting the collected wisdom of the whole, in place of a single will, + by which they have been hitherto governed. It is a remarkable proof of the + total incompetency of a single head to govern a nation well, when, with a + revenue of six hundred millions, they are led to a declared bankruptcy, + and to stop the wheels of government, even in its most essential + movements, for want of money. + </p> + <p> + I send the present letter by a private conveyance to a sea-port, in hopes + a conveyance may be found by some merchant vessel. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect esteem and + respect, Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0159" id="link2H_4_0159"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLVII.—TO MR. CUTTING, August 23, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO MR. CUTTING. + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 23, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have duly received your favors of the 3rd, 8th, 14th, and 15th instant, + and have now the honor of enclosing you a letter of introduction to Doctor + Ramsay. + </p> + <p> + I think a certainty that England and France must enter into the war, was a + great inducement to the ministry here to suspend the portion of public + payments, which they have lately suspended. By this operation, they secure + two hundred and three millions of livres, or eight millions and a half of + guineas, in the course of this and the ensuing year, which will be + sufficient for the campaign of the first year: for what is to, follow, the + States General must provide. The interesting question now is, how the + States General shall be composed? There are three opinions. 1. To place + the three estates, Clergy, <i>Noblesse</i>, and Commons, in three + different Houses. The Clergy would, probably, like this, and some of the + Nobility; but it has no partisans out of those orders. 2. To put the + Clergy and <i>Noblesse</i> into one House, and the Commons into another. + The <i>Noblesse</i> will be generally for this. 3. To put the three orders + into one House, and make the Commons the majority of that House. This + re-unites the greatest number of partisans, and I suspect it is well + patronized in the ministry, who, I am persuaded, are proceeding <i>bona + fide</i>, to improve the constitution of their country. As to the + opposition which the English expect from the personal character of the + King, it proves they do not know what his personal character is. He is the + honestest man in his kingdom, and the most regular and economical. He has + no foible which will enlist him against the good of his people; and + whatever constitution will promote this, he will befriend. But he will not + befriend it obstinately: he has given repeated proofs of a readiness to + sacrifice his opinion to the wish of the nation. I believe he will + consider the opinion of the States General, as the best evidence of what + will please and profit the nation, and will conform to it. All the + characters at court may not be of this disposition, and from thence may, + possibly, arise representations, capable of leading the King astray; but + upon a full view of all circumstances, I have sanguine hopes, that such a + constitution will be established here, as will regenerate the energy of + the nation, cover its friends, and make its enemies tremble. I am, with + very great esteem, Dear Sir, your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0160" id="link2H_4_0160"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLVIII.—TO JOHN JAY, September 3, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, September 3, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + By Mrs. Barclay I had the honor of sending you letters of the 3rd, 10th, + and 11th of August; since which, I wrote you of the 20th of the same + month, by a casual conveyance, as is the present. + </p> + <p> + In my letter of the 20th, I informed you of the act of public bankruptcy + which had taken place here. The effect of this would have been a forced + loan of about one hundred and eighty millions of livres, in the course of + the present and ensuing year. But it did not yield a sufficient immediate + relief. The treasury became literally moneyless, and all purposes + depending on this mover came to a stand. The Archbishop was hereupon + removed, with Monsieur Lambert, the Comptroller General; and Mr. Necker + was called in, as Director General of the finance. To soften the + Archbishop’s dismission, a cardinal’s hat is asked for him from Rome, and + his nephew promised the succession to the Archbishopric of Sens. The + public joy, on this change of administration, was very great indeed. The + people of Paris were amusing themselves with trying and burning the + Archbishop in effigy, and rejoicing on the appointment of Mr. Necker. The + commanding officer of the city-guards undertook to forbid this, and not + being obeyed, he charged the mob with fixed bayonets, killed two or three, + and wounded many: this stopped their rejoicings for that day; but enraged + at being thus obstructed in amusements wherein they had committed no + disorder whatever, they collected in great numbers the next day, attacked + the guards in various places, burnt ten or twelve guard-houses, killed two + or three of the guards, and had about six or eight of their own number + killed. The city was hereupon put under martial law, and after a while, + the tumult subsided, and peace was restored. The public stocks rose ten + per cent, on the day of Mr. Necker’s appointment: he was immediately + offered considerable sums of money, and has been able so far to wave the + benefit of the act of bankruptcy, as to pay in cash all demands, except + the <i>remboursements des capitaux</i>. For these, and for a sure supply + of other wants, he will depend on the States General, and will hasten + their meetings, as is thought. No other change has yet taken place in the + administration. The minister of war, however, must certainly follow his + brother, and some think, and all wish, that Monsieur de Lamoignon, the <i>Garde + des Sceaux</i>, may go out also. The administration of justice is still + suspended. The whole kingdom seems tranquil at this moment. + </p> + <p> + Abroad, no event worth noting has taken place since my last. The court of + Denmark has not declared it will do any thing more, than furnish the + stipulated aid to Russia. The King of Prussia has as yet made no move, + which may decide whether he will engage in the war, nor has England sent + any squadron into the Baltic. As the season for action is considerably + passed over, it is become more doubtful, whether any other power will + enter the lists till the next campaign; this will give time for stopping + the further progress of the war, if they really wish to stop it. Two camps + of twenty-five thousand men each are forming in this country on its + northern limits. The Prince of Conde has the command of one, and the Duke + de Broglio of the other. + </p> + <p> + I trouble you with the enclosed letter from a Henry Watson, claiming prize + monies, as having served under Admiral Paul Jones, which I suppose should + go to the treasury, or war-office. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect esteem and + respect, Sir, your most obedient and most humble; servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson, + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0161" id="link2H_4_0161"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLIX.—TO THE COMMISSIONERS OF THE TREASURY, Sep. 6, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO THE COMMISSIONERS OF THE TREASURY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, September 6, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Gentlemen, + </p> + <p> + Your favor of July the 3rd came to hand some days ago, and that of July + the 22nd in the afternoon of yesterday. Knowing that a Mr. Vannet was to + leave Paris this morning to go to Virginia in a vessel bound from Havre to + Potomac, I have engaged him to receive the papers which are the subject of + those letters, to take care of them from thence to Havre, and on the + voyage; and when he shall have arrived in Potomac, instead of going + directly to Richmond, as he intended, he will proceed with them himself to + New York. I shall pay here all expenses to their delivery at the ship’s + side in America, freight included: unless, perhaps, he may find it + necessary to put another covering over them, if he should not be able to + get them into the cabin; in this case, you will have to reimburse him for + that. I engage to him that you shall pay him their transportation from the + ship’s side to New York, and his own reasonable expenses from the place of + his landing to New York, and back to the place of landing. As he takes + that journey for this object only, it would be reasonable that you give + him some gratuity for his time and trouble, and I suppose it would be + accepted by him; but I have made no agreement for this. The papers are + contained in a large box and a trunk. They were sent here by Mr. Ast, + during my absence in Holland. When they arrived at the gates of Paris, the + officers of the customs opened the trunk, to see whether it contained + dutiable articles; but finding only books and papers, they concluded the + contents of the box to be of the same nature, and did not open that. You + receive it, therefore, as it came from the hands of Mr. Ast. A small + trunk, which came as a third package from Mr. Ast, and which has never + been opened, I have put into the great trunk, without displacing, or ever + having touched a single paper, except as far as was necessary to make room + for that. I shall have the whole corded and plumbed by the Custom-house + here, not only to prevent their being opened at the Custom-houses on the + road, and at the port of exportation, but to prove to you, whether they + shall have been opened by any body else after going out of my hands. If + the stamped leads are entire, and the cords uncut, when you receive them, + you will be sure they have not been opened; they will be wrapt in + oil-cloth here to guard them against the damps of the sea; and, as I + mentioned before, Mr. Vannet will put them under another covering, if he + finds it necessary, at Havre. + </p> + <p> + At the same time with your last letter, I received from the office of + Foreign Affairs the ratification by Congress of the loan of 1788, for + another million of guilders. As the necessity of this loan resulted from + the estimate made by Mr. Adams and myself, which estimate was laid before + Congress, I suppose their ratification of the loan implies that of the + estimate. One article of this was for the redemption of our captives at + Algiers. Though your letter says nothing on this subject, I am in hopes + you have sent orders to the commissioners of the loans at Amsterdam to + furnish, as soon as they shall have it, what may be necessary for this + pressing call. So also for the foreign officers. If the ratification of + the loan has been made by Congress, with a view to fulfil the objects of + the estimate, a general order from you to the commissioners of the loans + at Amsterdam, to pay the monies from time to time, according to that + estimate, or to such other as you shall furnish them with, might save the + trouble of particular orders on every single occasion, and the + disappointments arising from the delay or miscarriage of such orders: but + it is for you to decide on this. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect respect, + Gentlemen, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0162" id="link2H_4_0162"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLX.—TO THE COUNT DE MONTMORIN, + </h2> + <p> + TO THE COUNT DE MONTMORIN. + </p> + <p> + Paris, September 11, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + In the course of the last war, the house of Schweighaeuser and Dobree of + Nantes, and Puchilberg of L’Orient, presented to Dr. Franklin a demand + against the United States of America. He, being acquainted with the + circumstances of the demand, and knowing it to be unfounded, refused to + pay it. They thereupon procured seizure, by judiciary authority, of + certain arms and other military stores which we had purchased in this + country, and had deposited for embarkation at Nantes: and these stores + have remained in that position ever since. Congress have lately instructed + me to put an end to this matter. Unwilling to trouble your Excellency, + whenever it can be avoided, I proposed to the parties to have the question + decided by arbitrators, to be chosen by us jointly. They have refused it, + as you will see by their answers to my letters, copies of both which I + have the honor to enclose you. I presume it to be well settled in + practice, that the property of one sovereign is not permitted to be seized + within the dominions of another; and that this practice is founded not + only in mutual respect, but in mutual utility. To what the contrary + practice would lead, is evident in the present case, wherein military + stores have been stopped, in the course of a war, in which our greatest + difficulties proceeded from the want of military stores. In their letter, + too, they make a merit of not having seized one of our ships of war, and + certainly the principle which admits the seizure of arms, would admit that + of a whole fleet, and would often furnish an enemy the easiest means of + defeating an expedition. The parties obliging me, then, to have recourse + to your Excellency on this occasion, I am under the necessity of asking an + order from you for the immediate delivery of the stores and other property + of the United States at Nantes, detained by the house of Schweighaeuser + and Dobree, and that of Puchilberg, or by either of them, under a pretence + of a judicial seizure. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect respect and + esteem, your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0163" id="link2H_4_0163"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLXI.—TO M. DE REYNEVAL, September 16, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO M. DE REYNEVAL. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + Paris, September 16, 1788. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor now to enclose you my observations on the alteration + proposed in the consular convention. There remain only three articles of + those heretofore in question between us, to which I am unable to agree; + that is to say, the second, proposing still to retain personal immunities + for the consuls, and others attached to their office; the eighth, + proposing that the navigation code of each nation shall be established in + the territories of the other; and the ninth, insisting that the ship’s + roll shall be conclusive evidence that a person belongs to the ship. + </p> + <p> + There are several new matters introduced into the draught: some of these + are agreed to; others cannot be admitted, as being contrary to the same + principles which had obliged me to disagree to some of the former + articles. The greatest part of the eleventh, and the whole of the twelfth + new articles, are in this predicament. They propose, that no person shall + be arrested on board a merchant vessel, for any cause, but in presence of + the consul; that no such vessel shall be visited, but in his presence; and + that when the officers of justice have reason to believe that a criminal + has taken refuge on board a vessel of war, the captain’s word shall be + conclusive evidence that he is not there. + </p> + <p> + To the objections which I had the honor of stating in my letter to his + Excellency, the Count de Montmorin, I have now that of adding some other + observations, of which I request your perusal. I enclose with them a + draught, on the basis of the one you were pleased to give me, altered so + as to reconcile it to the spirit of our laws. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect esteem and + respect, Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0164" id="link2H_4_0164"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLXII.—TO THE MARQUIS DE LA ROUERIE, September 16,1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO THE MARQUIS DE LA ROUERIE. + </p> + <p> + Paris, September 16,1788. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + On receiving the first letters which you did me the honor to write to me + on the arrears due to you from the United States, I informed you that I + had nothing to do in the money department; that the subject of your + letters belonged altogether to the treasury board, and to Mr. Grand, their + banker here, to the former of whom I forwarded your letters. As I felt an + anxiety, however, that the foreign officers should be paid, I took the + liberty of pressing the treasury board, from time to time, to exert + themselves for that effect; and I availed myself of an opportunity which + occurred last spring, of setting on foot measures, which, with their + approbation, might furnish the means of effecting this payment. So far my + information to you went, and I added a supposition, that the treasury + board would probably give orders on the subject, in the course of the + month of July. But I made you no promise; it would have been strange if I + had; nor does my office, nor any thing I have ever said or done, subject + me to the demand of immediate payment, which you are pleased to make on + me, nor call on me for any declaration or answer, positive or negative. + </p> + <p> + Finding that my interference, which was friendly only, and avowed to be + inofficial, has given occasion to your letter of yesterday, in a style + which I did not expect, and to which I can have no motive for further + exposing myself, I must take the liberty of desiring that the + correspondence between us on this subject may cease. I presume that the + certificate given you points out the person, here or elsewhere, to whom + your applications are to be made, and that he will inform you when he + receives orders on your subject. + </p> + <p> + I am, Sir, your humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0165" id="link2H_4_0165"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLXIII.—TO WILLIAM SHORT, September 20, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO WILLIAM SHORT. + </p> + <p> + Paris, September 20, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + The evening of your departure, a letter came by the way of London and New + York, addressed to you, and probably from Virginia. I think you wished + your American letters to remain here; I shall therefore keep it. The + passport now enclosed came the day after your departure; so also did a + mass of American letters for me, as low down as August the 10th. I shall + give you their substance. The convention of Virginia annexed to their + ratification of the new constitution a copy of the State declaration of + rights, not by way of condition, but to announce their attachment to them. + They added also propositions for specific alterations of the constitution. + Among these was one for rendering the President incapable of serving more + than eight years, in any term of sixteen. New York has followed the + example of Virginia, expressing the substance of her bill of rights (that + is, Virginia’s), and proposing amendments: these last differ much from + those of Virginia; but they concur as to the President, only proposing + that he shall be incapable of being elected more than twice. But I own I + should like better than either of these, what Luther Martin tells us was + repeatedly voted and adhered to by the federal convention, and only + altered about twelve days before their rising, when some members had gone + off; to wit, that he should be elected for seven years, and incapable for + ever after. But New York has taken another step, which gives uneasiness; + she has written a circular letter to all the legislatures, asking their + concurrence in an immediate convention for making amendments. No news yet + from North Carolina. Electors are to be chosen the first Wednesday in + January; the President to be elected the first Wednesday in February; the + new legislature to meet the third week in March:—the place is not + yet decided on. Philadelphia was first proposed, and had six and a half + votes; the half vote was Delaware, one of whose members wanted to take a + vote on Wilmington; then Baltimore was proposed and carried, and + afterwards rescinded: so that the matter stood open as ever on the 10th of + August; but it was allowed the dispute lay only between New York and + Philadelphia, and rather thought in favor of the last. The Rhode Island + Delegates had retired from Congress. Dr. Franklin was dangerously ill of + the gout and stone on the 21st of July. My letters of August the 10th not + mentioning him, I hope he was recovered. Warville, &c. were arrived. + Congress had referred the decision, as to the independence of Kentucky, to + the new government. Brown ascribes this to the jealousy of the northern + States, who want Vermont to be received at the same time, in order to + preserve a balance of interests in Congress. He was just setting out for + Kentucky, disgusted, yet disposed to persuade to an acquiescence, though + doubting they would immediately separate from the Union. The principal + obstacle to this, he thought, would be the Indian war. + </p> + <p> + The following is a quotation from a letter from Virginia, dated July the + 12th. ‘P———n, though much impaired in health, and in + every respect in the decline of life, showed as much zeal to carry the new + constitution, as if he had been a young man; perhaps more than he + discovered in the commencement of the late revolution,in his opposition to + Great Britain. W———e acted as chairman to the committee + of the whole, and of course took but little part in the debate; but was + for the adoption, relying on subsequent amendments. B———r + said nothing, but was for it. The G———r exhibited a + curious spectacle to view. Having refused to sign the paper, every body + supposed him against it; but he afterwards had written a letter, and + having taken a part, which might be called rather vehement than active, he + was constantly laboring to show, that his present conduct was consistent + with that letter, and that letter with his refusal to sign. M—d—n + took the principal share in the debate for it; in which, together with the + aid I have already mentioned, he was somewhat assisted by I—nn—s, + Lee, M———l, C———n, and G. N———s. + M—s—n, H———y, and Gr———n + were the principal supporters of the opposition. The discussion, as might + be expected, where the parties were so nearly on a balance, was conducted + generally with great order, propriety, and respect of either party to the + other.’ + </p> + <p> + The assembly of Virginia, hurried to their harvests, would not enter into + a discussion of the district bill, but suspended it to the next session. + E. Winston is appointed a judge, vice Gabriel Jones, resigned. R. Goode + and Andrew Moore, Counsellors, vice B. Starke, dead, and Joseph + Egglestone, resigned. It is said Wilson, of Philadelphia, is talked of to + succeed Mr. A. in London. <i>Quære?</i> + </p> + <p> + The dispute about Virgil’s tomb and the laurel, seems to be at length + settled, by the testimony of two travellers, given separately, and without + a communication with each other. These both say, that attempting to pluck + off a branch of the laurel, it followed their hand, being, in fact, + nothing more than a plant or bough recently cut, and stuck in the ground + for the occasion. The Cicerone acknowledged the roguery, and said they + practised it with almost every traveller, to get money. You will, of + course, tug well at the laurel which shall be shown you, to see if this be + the true solution. + </p> + <p> + The President Dupaty is dead. Monsieur de Barentin, <i>prĂ©mier president + de la cour des aides</i>, is appointed <i>Garde des Sceaux</i>. The stocks + are rather lower than when you left this. Present me in the most friendly + terms to Messrs. Shippen and Rutledge. I rely on your communicating to + them the news, and, therefore, on their pardoning me for not repeating it + in separate letters to them. You can satisfy them how necessary this + economy of my time and labor is. This goes to Geneva <i>poste restante</i>. + I shall not write again till you tell me where to write to. + </p> + <p> + Accept very sincere assurances of the affection, with which I am, Dear + Sir, your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th; Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0166" id="link2H_4_0166"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLXIV.—TO JOHN JAY, September 24,1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, September 24,1788. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + Understanding that the vessel is not yet sailed from Havre, which is to + carry my letters of the 3rd and 5th instant, I am in hopes you will + receive the present with them. The Russian accounts of their victories on + the Black Sea must have been greatly exaggerated. According to these, the + Captain Pacha’s fleet was annihilated; yet themselves have lately brought + him on the stage again, with fifteen ships of the line, in order to obtain + another victory over him. I believe the truth to be, that he has suffered + some checks, of what magnitude it is impossible to say, where one side + alone is heard, and that he is still master of that sea. He has relieved + Oczakow, which still holds out; Choczim also is still untaken, and the + Emperor’s situation is apprehended to be bad. He spun his army into a long + cord, to cover several hundred miles of frontier, which put it in the + power of the Turks to attack with their whole force wherever they pleased. + Laudon, now called to head the imperial army, is endeavoring to collect + it; but in the mean time the campaign is drawing to a close, and has been + worse than fruitless. The resistance of Russia to Sweden has been + successful in every point by sea and land, This, with the interference of + Denmark, and the discontent of the Swedish nation; at the breach of their + constitution, by the King’s undertaking an offensive war without the + consent of the Senate, has obliged him to withdraw his attacks by land, + and to express a willingness for peace; one third of his officers have + refused to serve. England and Prussia have offered their mediation between + Sweden and Russia, in such equivocal terms, as to leave themselves at + liberty to say it was an offer, or was not, just as it shall suit them. + Denmark is asking the counter-offer of mediation from this court. If + England and Prussia make a peace effectually in the north (which it is + absolutely in their power to do), it will be a proof they do not intend to + enter into the war; if they do not impose a peace, I should suspect they + mean to engage themselves; as one can hardly suppose they would let the + war go on in its present form, wherein Sweden must be crushed between + Russia and Denmark. + </p> + <p> + The <i>Garde des Sceaux</i>, M. de Lamoignon, was dismissed the 14th + instant, and M. de Barentin is appointed in his room. The deputies of + Bretagne are released from the Bastile, and M. d’Epermesnil and M. + Sabatier recalled from their confinement. The parliament is not yet + reinstated; but it is confidently said it will be this week. The stocks + continue low, and the treasury under a hard struggle to keep the + government in motion. It is believed the meeting of the States General + will be as early as January, perhaps December. I have received a duplicate + of the ratification of the loan of 1788, by Congress, and a duplicate of a + letter of July the 22nd, from the treasury board, on another subject, but + none on that of the captives, or foreign officers. I suppose some cause of + delay must have intervened between the ratification of Congress, and the + consequent orders of the treasury board. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect esteem and + respect, Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant; + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson, + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0167" id="link2H_4_0167"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLXV.—TO M. DE REYNEVAL, October 1, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO M. DE REYNEVAL. + </p> + <p> + Paris, October 1, 1788 + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have now the honor of enclosing to you a copy of the letter of September + the 16th, which I had that of writing to his Excellency the Count de + Montmorin, with the papers therein referred to, and of soliciting the + order I have asked for. The originals were sent at the date before + mentioned. Notwithstanding the refusal of the houses of Schweighaeuser and + Dobree, and of Puchilberg, to settle their claim against the United States + by arbitration, as I proposed to them, the United States will still be + ready to do them justice. But those houses must first retire from the only + two propositions they have ever made; to wit, either a payment of their + demand without discussion, or a discussion before the tribunals of the + country. In the mean time, I shall hope an acknowledgment with respect to + us, of the principle which holds as to other nations; that our public + property here cannot be seized by the territorial judge. It is the more + interesting to us, as we shall be more and longer exposed than other + nations, to draw arms and military stores from Europe. Our preference of + this country has occasioned us to draw them from hence alone, since the + peace: and the friendship we have constantly experienced from the + government, will, we doubt not, on this and every other occasion, insure + to us the protection of what we purchase. I have the honor to be, Sir, + your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0168" id="link2H_4_0168"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLXVI.—TO MR. CUTTING, October 2, 1788 + </h2> + <h3> + TO MR. CUTTING. + </h3> + <p> + Paris, October 2, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I am now to acknowledge the receipt of your favors of the 16th and 23rd + ultimo and to thank you for the intelligence they conveyed. That + respecting the case of the interrogatories in Pennsylvania, ought to make + noise. So evident a heresy in the common law ought not to be tolerated on + the authority of two or three civilians, who happened, unfortunately, to + make authority in the courts of England. I hold it essential, in America, + to forbid that any English decision which has happened since the accession + of Lord Mansfield to the bench, should ever be cited in a court: because, + though there have come many good ones from him, yet there is so much sly + poison instilled into a great part of them, that it is better to proscribe + the whole. Can you inform me what has been done by England on the subject + of our wheat and flour? The papers say it is prohibited, even in Hanover. + How do their whale-fisheries turn out, this year? I hope a deep wound will + be given them in that article soon, and such as will leave us in no danger + from their competition. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + I am, with very great esteem, Dear Sir, your most obedient, humble + servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + LETTER CLXVII.—TO JOHN JAY, November 14, 1788 + </p> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, November 14, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + In my letter of December the 21st, 1787, I had the honor of acknowledging + the receipts of your two favors of July the 27th, 1787, which had come to + my hands December the 19th, and brought with them my full powers for + treating on the subject of the consular convention. Being then much + engaged in getting forward the <i>ArrĂŞt</i> which came out the 29th of + December, and willing to leave some interval between that act, and the + solicitation of a reconsideration of our consular convention, I had + declined mentioning it, for some time, and was just about to bring it on + the carpet, when it became necessary for me to go to Amsterdam. + Immediately after my return, which was about the last of April, I + introduced the subject to the Count de Montmorin, and have followed it + unremittingly, from that time. The office of Marine, as well as that of + Foreign Affairs, being to be consulted in all the stages of the + negotiation, has protracted its conclusions till this time: it is at + length signed this day, and I have now the honor to enclose the original, + for the ratification of Congress. The principal changes effected are the + following: + </p> + <p> + The clauses of the Convention of 1784, clothing consuls with privileges of + the law of nations, are struck out, and they are expressly subjected, in + their persons and property, to the laws of the land. + </p> + <p> + That giving the right of sanctuary to their houses, is reduced to a + protection of their chancery room and its papers. + </p> + <p> + Their coercive powers over passengers are taken away; and over those, whom + they might have termed deserters of their nation, are restrained to + deserted seamen only. + </p> + <p> + The clause, allowing them to arrest and send back vessels, is struck out, + and instead of it, they are allowed to exercise a police over the ships of + their nation generally. + </p> + <p> + So is that, which declared the indelibility of the character of subject, + and the explanation and extension of the eleventh article of the treaty of + amity. + </p> + <p> + The innovations in the laws of evidence are done away: and the convention + is limited to twelve years’ duration. Convinced that the fewer examples, + the better, of either persons or causes unamenable to the laws of the + land, I could have wished, still more had been done; but more could not be + done, with good humor. The extensions of authority given by the convention + of 1784, were so homogeneous with the spirit of this government, that they + were prized here. Monsieur de Reyneval has had the principal charge of + arranging this instrument with me; and, in justice to him, I must say, I + could not have desired more reasonable and friendly dispositions, than he + demonstrated through the whole of it. + </p> + <p> + I enclose herewith the several schemes successively proposed between us, + together with the copies of the written observations given in with them, + and which served as texts of discussion, in our personal conferences. They + may serve as a commentary on any passage which may need it, either now or + hereafter, and as a history how any particular passage comes to stand as + it does. No. 1. is the convention of 1784. No. 2. is my first scheme. No. + 3. theirs in answer to it. No. 4. my next, which brought us so near + together, that, in a conference on that, we arranged it in the form in + which it has been signed. I add No. 5. the copy of a translation which I + have put into their hands, with a request, that if they find any passages + in which the sense of the original is not faithfully rendered, they will + point them out to me; otherwise, we may consider it as having their + approbation. This, and the convention of 1784, (marked No. 1.) are placed + side by side, so as to present to the eye, with less trouble, the changes + made; and I enclose a number of printed copies of them, for the use of the + members, who will have to decide on the ratification. It is desirable that + the ratification should be sent here for exchange, as soon as possible. + </p> + <p> + With respect to the consular appointments, it is a duty on me to add some + observations, which my situation here has enabled me to make. I think it + was in the spring of 1784, that Congress (harassed by multiplied + applications from foreigners, of whom nothing was known but on their own + information, or on that of others as unknown as themselves) came to a + resolution, that the interest of America would not permit the naming any + person not a citizen, to the office of consul, vice-consul, agent, or + commissary. This was intended as a general answer to that swarm of foreign + pretenders. It appears to me, that it will be best, still to preserve a + part of this regulation. Native citizens, on several valuable accounts, + are preferable to aliens, and to citizens alien-born. They possess our + language, know our laws, customs, and commerce; have, generally, + acquaintance in the United States; give better satisfaction; and are more + to be relied on, in point of fidelity. Their disadvantages are, an + imperfect acquaintance with the language of this country, and an ignorance + of the organization of its judicial and executive powers, and consequent + awkwardness, whenever application to either of these is necessary, as it + frequently is. But it happens, that in some of the principal ports of + France, there is not a single American (as in Marseilles, L’Orient, and + Havre), in others but one (as in Nantes and Rouen), and in Bordeaux only, + are there two or three. Fortunately for the present moment, most of these + are worthy of appointments. But we should look forward to future times, + when there may happen to be no native citizens in a port, but such as, + being bankrupt, have taken asylum in France from their creditors, or young + ephemeral adventurers in commerce, without substance or conduct, or other + descriptions, which might disgrace the consular office, without protecting + our commerce. To avail ourselves of our good native citizens, when we have + one in a port, and when there are none, to have yet some person to attend + to our affairs, it appears to me advisable to declare, by a standing law, + that no person but a native citizen shall be capable of the office of + consul, and that the consul’s presence in his port should suspend, for the + time, the functions of the vice-consul. This is the rule of 1784, + restrained to the office of consul, and to native citizens. The + establishing this, by a standing law, will guard against the effect of + particular applications, and will shut the door against such applications, + which will otherwise be numerous. This done, the office of vice-consul may + be given to the best subject in the port, whether citizen or alien, and + that of consul, be kept open for any native citizen of superior + qualifications, who might come afterwards to establish himself in the + port. The functions of the vice-consul would become dormant during the + presence of his principal, come into activity again on his departure, and + thus spare us and them the painful operation of revoking and reviving + their commissions perpetually. Add to this, that during the presence of + the consul, the vice-consul would not be merely useless, but would be a + valuable counsellor to his principal, new in the office, the language, + laws, and customs of the country. Every consul and vice-consul should be + restrained in his jurisdiction, to the port for which he is named, and the + territory nearer to that than to any other consular or vice-consular port, + and no idea be permitted to arise, that the grade of consul gives a right + to any authority whatever over a vice-consul, or draws on any dependence. + </p> + <p> + It is now proper I should give some account of the state of our dispute + with Schweighaeuser and Dobree. In the conversation I had with Dobree, at + Nantes, he appeared to think so rationally on this subject, that I thought + there would be no difficulty in accommodating it with him, and I wished + rather to settle it by accommodation, than to apply to the minister. I + afterwards had it intimated to him, through the medium of Mr. Carnes, that + I had it in idea, to propose a reference to arbitrators. He expressed a + cheerful concurrence in it. I thereupon made the proposition to him + formally, by letter, mentioning particularly, that we would choose our + arbitrators of some neutral nation, and, of preference, from among the + Dutch refugees here. I was surprised to receive an answer from him, wherein, + after expressing his own readiness to accede to this proposition, he + added, that on consulting Mr. Puchilberg, he had declined it; + nevertheless, he wished a fuller explanation from me, as to the subjects + to be submitted to arbitration. I gave him that explanation, and he + answered finally, that Mr. Puchilberg refused all accommodation, and + insisted that the matter should be decided by the tribunals of the + country. Accommodation being at an end, I wrote to Monsieur de Montmorin, + and insisted on the usage of nations, which does not permit the effects of + one sovereign, to be seized in the territories of another, and subjected + to judiciary decision there. I am promised that the stores shall be + delivered; but the necessary formalities will occasion some delay. The + King being authorized to call all causes before himself, ours will be + evoked from the tribunal where it is, and will be ended by an order to + deliver up the stores arrested, leaving it to the justice of Congress, to + do afterwards what is right, as to the demand of Schweighaeuser and + Dobree. I wish I could receive instructions what to do with the stores, + when delivered. The arms had certainly better be sent to America, as they + are good, and yet will sell here for little or nothing. The gun-stocks and + old iron had better be sold here; but what should be done with the + anchors? Being thoroughly persuaded that Congress wish that substantial + justice should be done to Schweighaeuser and Dobree, I shall, after the + stores are secured, repeat my proposition of arbitration to them. If they + then refuse it, I shall return all the papers to America, and consider my + powers for settling this matter as at an end. + </p> + <p> + I have received no answer yet from Denmark on the subject of the prizes; + nor do I know whether to ascribe this silence to an intention to evade the + demand, or to the multitude of affairs they have had on their hands + lately. Patience seems to be prudence, in this case; to indispose them, + would do no good, and might do harm. I shall write again soon, if no + answer be received in the mean time. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect esteem and + respect, Sir, your most obedient and most humble + </p> + <p> + servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [The following is the translation of the convention referred + to as No. 5. in the preceding letter.] +</pre> + <p> + <i>Convention between his Most Christian Majesty and the United States of + America, for the purpose of defining and establishing the Functions and + Privileges of their respective Consuls and Vice-Consuls</i>. + </p> + <p> + His Majesty the Most Christian King, and the United States of America, + having, by the twenty-ninth article of the treaty of amity and commerce + concluded between them, mutually granted the liberty of having, in their + respective States and ports, Consuls, Vice-Consuls, Agents, and + Commissaries, and being willing, in consequence thereof, to define and + establish, in a reciprocal and permanent manner, the functions and + privileges of Consuls and Vice-Consuls, which they have judged it + convenient to establish of preference, his M. C. Majesty has nominated the + Sieur Count of Montmorin of St. Herent, Marechal of his Camps and Armies, + Knight of his Orders and of the Golden Fleece, his Counsellor in all his + Councils, Minister and Secretary of State, and of his Commandments and + Finances, having the department of foreign affairs, and the United States + have nominated Thomas Jefferson, citizen of the United States of America + and their Minister Plenipotentiary near the King, who after having + communicated to each other their respective full powers, have agreed on + what follows: + </p> + <p> + Article I. The Consuls and Vice-Consuls named by the M. C. K. and the + United States, shall be bound to present their commissions according to + the forms which shall be established respectively by the M. C. K. within + his dominions, and by the Congress within the United States; there shall + be delivered to them, without any charges, the <i>Exequatur</i> necessary + for the exercise of their functions; and on exhibiting the said <i>Exequatur</i>, + the governors, commanders, heads of justice, bodies corporate, tribunals, + and other officers having authority in the ports and places of their + consulates, shall cause them to enjoy immediately, and without difficulty, + the pre-eminences, authority, and privileges, reciprocally granted, + without exacting from the said Consuls and Vice-Consuls any fee, under any + pretext whatever. + </p> + <p> + Article II. The Consuls and Vice-Consuls, and persons attached to their + functions, that is to say, their chancellors and secretaries, shall enjoy + a full and entire immunity for their chancery and the papers which shall + be therein contained: they shall be exempt from aU, personal service, from + soldiers’ billets, militia, watch, guard, guardianship, trusteeship, as + well as from all duties, taxes, impositions, and charges whatsoever, + except on the estate real and personal of which they may be the + proprietors or possessors, which shall be subject to the taxes imposed on + the estates of all other individuals: and in all other instances they + shall be subject to the laws of the land, as the natives are. + </p> + <p> + Those of the said Consuls and Vice-Consuls who shall exercise commerce, + shall be respectively subject to all taxes, charges, and impositions + established on other merchants. + </p> + <p> + They shall place over the outward door of their house the arms of their + sovereign: but this mark of indication shall not give to the said house + any privilege of asylum for any person or property whatsoever. + </p> + <p> + Article III. The respective Consuls and Vice-Consuls may establish agents + in the different ports and places of their departments, where necessity + shall require. These agents maybe chosen among the merchants, either + national or foreign, and furnished with a commission from one of the said + Consuls; they shall confine themselves respectively to the rendering to + their respective merchants, navigators, and vessels, all possible service, + and to inform the nearest Consul of the wants of the said merchants, + navigators, and vessels, without the said agents otherwise participating + in the immunities, rights, and privileges attributed to Consuls and + Vice-Consuls, and without power, under any pretext whatever, to exact from + the said merchants any duty or emolument whatsoever. + </p> + <p> + Article IV. The Consuls and Vice-Consuls respectively, may establish a + chancery, where shall be deposited the consular determinations, acts, and + proceedings, as also testaments, obligations, contracts, and other acts + done by or between persons of their nation, and effects left by decedents, + or saved from shipwreck. + </p> + <p> + They may, consequently, appoint fit persons to act in the said chancery, + qualify and swear them in, commit to them the custody of the seal, and + authority to seal commissions, sentences, and other consular acts, and + also to discharge the functions of notaries and registers of the + consulate. + </p> + <p> + Article V. The Consuls and Vice-Consuls respectively, shall have the + exclusive right of receiving in their chancery, or on board their vessels, + the declarations and all other the acts which the captains, masters, + crews, passengers, and merchants of their nation may choose to make there, + even their testaments and other disposals by last will: and the copies of + the said acts, duly authenticated by the said Consuls or Vice-Consuls, + under the seal of their consulate, shall receive faith in law, equally as + their originals would, in all the tribunals of the dominions of the M. C. + King and of the United States. + </p> + <p> + They shall also have, and exclusively, in case of the absence of the + testamentary executor, guardian, or lawful representative, the right to + inventory, liquidate, and proceed to the sale of the personal estate left + by subjects or citizens of their nation, who shall die within the extent + of their consulate; they shall proceed therein with the assistance of two + merchants of their said nation, or, for want of them, of any other at + their choice, and shall cause to be deposited in their chancery, the + effects and papers of the said estates; and no officer, military, + judiciary, or of the police of the country, shall disturb them or + interfere therein, in any manner whatsoever: but the said Consuls and + Vice-Consuls shall not deliver up the said effects, nor the proceeds + thereof, to the lawful representatives or to their order, till they shall + have caused to be paid all debts which the deceased shall have contracted + in the country; for which purpose the creditor shall have a right to + attach the said effects in their hands, as they might in those of any + other individual whatever, and proceed to obtain sale of them, till + payment of what shall be lawfully due to them. When the debts shall not + have been contracted by judgment, deed, or note, the signature whereof + shall be known, payment shall not be ordered, but on the creditor’s giving + sufficient surety resident in the country, to refund the sums he shall + have unduly received, principal, interest, and costs; which surety, + nevertheless, shall stand duly discharged after the term of one year, in + time of peace, and of two, in time of war, if the discharge cannot be + formed before the end of this term, against the* representatives who shall + present themselves. + </p> + <p> + And in order that the representatives may not be unjustly kept out of the + effects of the deceased, the Consuls and Vice-Consuls shall notify his + death in some one of the gazettes published within their consulate, and + that they shall retain the said effects in their hands four months, to + answer all just demands which shall be presented; and they shall be bound, + after this delay, to deliver to the persons succeeding thereto, what shall + be more than sufficient for the demands which shall have been formed. + </p> + <p> + Article VI. The Consuls and Vice-Consuls, respectively, shall receive the + declarations, protests, and reports of all captains and masters of their + respective nations, on account of average losses sustained at sea; and + these captains and masters shall lodge in the chancery of the said Consuls + and Vice-Consuls, the acts which they may have made in other ports, on + account of the accidents which may have happened to them on their voyage. + If a subject of the M. C. K. and a citizen of the United States, or a + foreigner, are interested in the said cargo, the average shall be settled + by the tribunals of the country, and not by the Consuls or Vice-Consuls; + but when only the subjects or citizens of their own nation shall be + interested, the respective Consuls or Vice-Consuls shall appoint skilful + persons to settle the damages and average. + </p> + <p> + Article VII. In cases where by tempest, or other accident, French ships or + vessels shall be stranded on the coasts of the United States, and ships or + vessels of the United States shall be stranded on the coasts of the + dominions of the M. C. K.,the Consul or Vice-Consul nearest to the place + of shipwreck shall do whatever he may judge proper, as well for the + purpose of saving the said ship or vessel, its cargo and appurtenances, as + for the storing and the security of the effects and merchandise saved. He + may take an inventory of them, without the intermeddling of any officers + of the military, of the customs, of justice, or of the police of the + country, otherwise than to give to the Consuls, Vice-Consuls, captain, and + crew of the vessels shipwrecked or stranded, all the succor and favor + which they shall ask of them, either for the expedition and security of + the saving and of the effects saved, as to prevent all disturbance. + </p> + <p> + And in order to prevent all kind of dispute and discussion in the said + cases of shipwreck, it is agreed that when there shall be no Consul or + Vice-Consul to attend to the saving of the wreck, or that the residence of + the said Consul or Vice-Consul (he not being at the place of the wreck) + shall be more distant from the said place than that of the competent judge + of the country, the latter shall immediately proceed therein, with all the + despatch, certainty, and precautions, prescribed by the respective laws; + but the said territorial judge shall retire, on the arrival of the Consul + or Vice-Consul, and shall deliver over to him the report of his + proceedings, the expenses of which the Consul and Vice-Consul shall cause + to be reimbursed to him, as well as those of saving the wreck. + </p> + <p> + The merchandise and effects saved, shall be deposited in the nearest + Custom-house, or other place of safety, with the inventory thereof, which + shall have been made by the Consul or Vice-Consul, or by the judge who + shall have proceeded in their absence, that the said effects and + merchandise may be afterwards delivered (after levying therefrom the + costs), and without form of process, to the owners, who, being furnished + with an order for their delivery, from the nearest Consul or Vice-Consul, + shall reclaim them by themselves, or by their order, either for the + purpose of re-exporting such merchandise, in which case, they shall-pay no + kind of duty of exportation, or for that of selling them in the country, + if they be not prohibited there; and in this last case, the said + merchandise, if they be damaged, shall be allowed an abatement of entrance + duties, proportioned to the damage they have sustained, which shall be + ascertained by the affidavits taken at the time the vessel was wrecked or + struck. + </p> + <p> + Article VIII. The Consuls and Vice-Consuls shall exercise police over all + the vessels of their respective nations, and shall have on board the said + vessels, all power and jurisdiction in civil matters, in all the disputes + which may there arise; they shall have an entire inspection over the said + vessels, their crew, and the changes and substitutions there to be made. + For which purpose they may go on board the said vessels whenever they may + judge it necessary: well understood, that the functions hereby allowed + shall be confined to the interior of the vessels, and that they shall not + take place in any case, which shall have any interference with the police + of the ports where the said vessels shall be. + </p> + <p> + Article IX. The Consuls and Vice-Consuls may cause to be arrested the + captains, officers, mariners, sailors, and all other persons, being part + of the crews of the vessels of their respective nations, who shall have + deserted from the said vessels, in order to send them back, and transport + them out of the country. For which purpose, the said Consuls and + Vice-Consuls shall address themselves to the courts, judges, and officers + competent, and shall demand the said deserters in writing, proving by an + exhibition of the registers of the vessel or ship’s roll, that those men + were part of the said crews: and on this demand, so proved (saving, + however, where the contrary is proved), the delivery shall not be + refused¦; and there shall be given all aid and assistance to the said + Consuls and Vice-Consuls, for the search, seizure, and arrest of the said + deserters, who shall even be detained and kept in the prisons of the + country, at their request and expense, until they shall have found an + opportunity of sending them back. But if they be not sent back within + three months, to be counted from the day of their arrest, they shall be + set at liberty, and shall be no more arrested for the same cause. + </p> + <p> + Article X. In cases where the respective subjects, or citizens, shall have + committed any crime, or breach of the peace, they shall be amenable to the + judges of the country. + </p> + <p> + Article XI. When the said offenders shall be a part of the crew of a + vessel of their nation, and shall have withdrawn themselves on board the + said vessel, they may be there seized and arrested by order of the judges + of the country: these shall give notice thereof to the Consul or + Vice-Consul, who may repair on board, if he thinks proper: but this + notification shall not, in any case, delay execution of the order in + question. The persons arrested shall not afterwards be set at liberty, + until the Consul or Vice-Consul shall have been notified thereof; and they + shall be delivered to him, if he requires it, to be put again onboard of + the vessel on which they were arrested, or of others of their nation, and + to be sent out of the country. + </p> + <p> + Article XII. All differences and suits between the subjects of the M. C. + K. in the U. S., or between the citizens of the United States within the + dominions of the M. C. K. and particularly all disputes relative to the + wages and terms of engagement of the crews of the respective vessels, and + all differences of whatever nature they be, which may arise between the + privates of the said crews, or between any of them and their captains, or + between the captains of different vessels of their nation, shall be + determined by the respective Consuls and Vice-Consuls, either by a + reference to arbitrators, or by a summary judgment, and without costs. + </p> + <p> + No officer of the country, civil or military, shall interfere therein, or + take any part whatever in the matter: and the appeals from the said + consular sentences shall be carried before the tribunals of France or of + the United States, to whom it may appertain to take cognizance thereof. + </p> + <p> + Article XIII. The general utility of commerce, having caused to be + established within the dominions of the M. C. K. particular tribunals and + forms, for expediting the decision of commercial affairs, the merchants of + the U. S. shall enjoy the benefit of these establishments; and the + Congress of the U. S. will provide in the manner the most conformable to + its laws, equivalent advantages in favor of the French merchants, for the + prompt despatch and decision of affairs of the same nature. + </p> + <p> + Article XIV. The subjects of the M. C. K. and citizens of the U. S. who + shall prove by legal evidence, that they are of the said nations + respectively, shall, in consequence, enjoy an exemption from all personal + service in the place of their settlement. + </p> + <p> + Article XV. If any other nation acquires, by virtue of any convention + whatever, a treatment more favorable with respect to the consular + pre-eminences, powers, authority, and privileges, the Consuls and + Vice-Consuls of the M. C. K. or of the U. S., reciprocally, shall + participate therein, agreeably to the terms stipulated by the second, + third, and fourth articles of the treaty of amity and commerce, concluded + between the M. C. K. and the U. S. + </p> + <p> + Article XVI. The present convention shall be in full force during the term + of twelve years, to be counted from the day of the exchange of + ratifications, which shall be given in proper form, and exchanged on both + sides, within the space of one year, or sooner, if possible. + </p> + <p> + In faith whereof, we, Ministers Plenipotentiary, have signed the present + convention, and have thereto set the seal of our arms. + </p> + <p> + Done at Versailles, the 14th of November, one thousand seven hundred and + eighty eight. + </p> + <p> + L. C. De MONTMORIN. L. S. + </p> + <p> + Signed. + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. L. S. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0169" id="link2H_4_0169"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLXVIII.—TO JAMES MADISON, November 18, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO JAMES MADISON. + </p> + <p> + Paris, November 18, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + My last to you was of the 31st of July; since which, I have received yours + of July the 24th, August the 10th, and 23rd. The first part of this long + silence in me was occasioned by a knowledge that you were absent from New + York; the latter part, by a want of opportunity, which has been longer + than usual. Mr. Shippen being just arrived here, and to set out to-morrow + for London, I avail myself of that channel of conveyance. Mr. Carrington + was so kind as to send me the second volume of the American Philosophical + Transactions, the Federalist, and some other interesting pamphlets; and I + am to thank you for another copy of the Federalist, and the report of the + instructions to the ministers for negotiating peace. The latter unluckily + omitted exactly the passage I wanted, which was what related to the + navigation of the Mississippi. With respect to the Federalist, the three + authors had been named to me. I read it with care, pleasure, and + improvement, and was satisfied there was nothing in it by one of those + hands, and not a great deal by a second. It does the highest honor to the + third, as being, in my opinion, the best commentary on the principles of + government, which ever was written. In some parts, it is discoverable that + the author means only to say what may be best said in defence of opinions, + in which he did not concur. But in general, it establishes firmly the plan + of government. I confess, it has rectified me on several points. As to the + bill of rights, however, I still think it should be added; and I am glad + to see, that three States have at length considered the perpetual + re-eligibility of the President, as an article which should be amended. I + should deprecate with you, indeed, the meeting of a new convention. I hope + they will adopt the mode of amendment by Congress and the Assemblies, in + which case, I should not fear any dangerous innovation in the plan. But + the minorities are too respectable, not to be entitled to some sacrifice + of opinion in the majority; especially, when a great proportion of them + would be contented with a bill of rights. Here, things internally, are + going on well. The <i>Notables</i> now in session, have, indeed, passed + one vote, which augurs ill to the rights of the people; but if they do not + obtain now so much as they have a right to, they will in the long run. The + misfortune is, that they are not yet ripe for receiving the blessings to + which they are entitled. I doubt, for instance, whether the body of the + nation, if they could be consulted, would accept of a <i>habeas corpus</i> + law, if offered them by the King. If the <i>Etats Generaux</i>, when they + assemble, do not aim at too much, they may begin a good constitution. + There are three articles which they may easily obtain; 1. their own + meeting, periodically; 2. the exclusive right of taxation; 3. the right of + registering laws and proposing amendments to them, as exercised now by the + parliaments. This last would be readily approved by the court, on account + of their hostility against the parliaments, and would lead immediately to + the origination of laws: the second has been already solemnly avowed by + the King; and it is well understood, there would be no opposition to the + first. If they push at much more, all may fail. I shall not enter further + into public details, because my letter to Mr. Jay will give them. That + contains a request of permission to return to America the next spring, for + the summer only. The reasons therein urged, drawn from my private affairs, + are very cogent. But there is another, more cogent on my mind, though of a + nature not to be explained in a public letter. It is the necessity of + attending my daughters, myself, to their own country, and depositing them + safely in the hands of those, with whom I can safely leave them. I have + deferred this request as long as circumstances would permit, and am in + hopes it will meet with no difficulty. I have had too many proofs of your + friendship, not to rely on your patronage of it, as, in all probability, + nothing can suffer by a short absence. But the immediate permission is + what I am anxious about; as by going in April and returning in October, I + shall be sure of pleasant and short passages, out and in. I must intreat + your attention, my friend, to this matter, and that the answers may be + sent me through several channels. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Liniozin, at Havre, sent you, by mistake, a package belonging to + somebody else. I do not know what it contained, but he has written to you + on the subject, and prayed me to do the same, he is likely to suffer if it + be not returned. + </p> + <p> + Supposing that the funding their foreign debt will be among the first + operations of the new government, I send you two estimates; the one by + myself, the other by a gentleman infinitely better acquainted with the + subject, showing what fund will suffice to discharge the principal and + interest, as it shall become due, aided by occasional loans, which the + same fund will repay. I enclose them to you, because collating them + together, and with your own ideas, you will be able to advise something + better than either; but something must be done. This government will + expect, I fancy, a very satisfactory provision for the payment of their + debt, from the first session of the new Congress. Perhaps, in this matter, + as well as the arrangement of your foreign affairs, I may be able, when on + the spot with you, to give some information and suggest some hints, which + may render my visit to my native country not altogether useless. I + consider as no small advantage, the resuming the tone of mind of my + constituents, which is lost by long absence, and can only be recovered by + mixing with them; and shall, particularly, hope for much profit and + pleasure, by contriving to pass as much time as possible with you. Should + you have a trip to Virginia in contemplation, for that year, I hope you + will time it so as that we may be there together. I will camp you at + Monticello, where, if illy entertained otherwise, you shall not want + books. In firm hope of a happy meeting with you in the spring, or early in + summer, I conclude, with assurances of the sincere esteem and attachment, + with which I am, Dear Sir, your affectionate friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0170" id="link2H_4_0170"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLXIX.—TO A. DONALD, November 18,1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO A. DONALD. + </p> + <p> + Paris, November 18,1788. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Often solicited by persons on this side the water, to inquire for their + friends in America, about whose fate they are uncertain, I can only hand + on their requests to my friends in America. The enclosed letter from, the + Chevalier de Sigougne desires some inquiry after his brother, whom he + supposes to have settled at Todd’s Bridge. As this is within your reach, I + must refer the request to your humanity, and beg of you, if you can hear + of him, you will be so good as to give me an account of him, returning me + the enclosed letter at the same time. + </p> + <p> + The campaign between the Turks and Russians has been tolerably equal. The + Austrians have suffered through the whole of it. By the interposition of + Prussia and England, peace is likely to be made between Russia, Denmark, + and Sweden. This is a proof that England does not mean to engage in the + war herself. This country will certainly engage herself in no manner, + externally, before the meeting of her States General. This assembly has + been so long disused, that the forms of its convocation occasion + difficulty. The <i>Notables</i> have been convened to prescribe them, and + they are now in session. I am in hopes this will end in giving a good + degree of liberty to this country. They enjoy, at present, the most + perfect tranquillity within; their stocks, however, continue low, and + money difficult to be got for current expenses. It is hoped, that Mr. + Necker’s talents and popularity, with the aid of a National Assembly, will + extricate them from their difficulties. We have been daily expecting to + hear of the death of the King of England: our last news is of the 11th, + when he was thought in the utmost danger. This event might produce a great + change in the situation of things: it is supposed Mr. Fox would come into + place, and he has been generally understood to be disposed for war. Should + the King survive, I think the continuance of peace more probable at + present, than it has been for some time past. Be so good as to contrive + the enclosed letter, by a very safe conveyance. Remember me in the most + friendly terms to Dr. Currie, and be assured yourself of the esteem and + attachment, with which I am. Dear Sir, your affectionate friend and + servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0171" id="link2H_4_0171"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLXX.—TO JOHN JAY, November 19, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + Paris, November 19, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Since my letter of September the 5th, wherein I acknowledged Mr. Remsen’s + favor of July the 25th, I have written those of September the 24th, and of + the 14th instant. This last will accompany the present, both going by the + way of London, for want of a direct opportunity; but they go by a private + hand. + </p> + <p> + No late event worth notice has taken place between the Turks and + Austrians. The former continue in the territories of the latter, with all + the appearances of superiority. On the side of Russia, the war wears an + equal face, except that the Turks are still masters of the Black sea. + Oczakow is not yet taken. Denmark furnished to Russia its stipulated quota + of troops with so much alacrity, and was making such other warlike + preparations, that it was believed they meant to become principals in the + war against Sweden. Russia and England hereupon interposed efficaciously. + Their ministers appointed to meditate, gave notice to the court of + Copenhagen, that they would declare war against them in the name of their + two sovereigns, if they did not immediately withdraw their troops from the + Swedish territories. The court of London has since said, that their + minister (Elliott) went further in this than he was authorized. However, + the Danish troops are retiring. Poland is augmenting its army from twenty + to an hundred thousand men. Nevertheless, it seems as if England and + Prussia meant in earnest to stop the war in that quarter, contented to + leave the two empires in the hands of the Turks. France, desired by Sweden + to join the courts of London and Berlin in their mediation between Sweden + and Russia, has declined it. We may be assured, she will meddle in nothing + external before the meeting of the States General. Her temporary + annihilation in the political scale of Europe, leaves to England and + Prussia the splendid roll, of giving the law without meeting the shadow of + opposition. The internal tranquillity of this country is perfect: their + stocks, however, continue low, and the difficulty of getting money to face + current expenses very great. In the contest between the King and + parliament, the latter, fearing the power of the former, passed the + convoking the States General. The government found itself obliged by other + difficulties, also, to recur to the same expedient. The parliament, after + its recall, showed that it was now become apprehensive of the States + General, and discovered a determination to cavil at their form, so as to + have a right to deny their legality, if that body should undertake to + abridge their powers. The court, hereupon, very adroitly determined to + call the same <i>Notables</i>, who had been approved by the nation the + last year, to decide on the form of convoking the <i>Etats Generaux</i>: + thus withdrawing itself from the disputes which the parliament might + excite, and committing them with the nation. The <i>Notables</i> are now + in session. The government had manifestly discovered a disposition that + the <i>Tiers-Etat</i>, or Commons, should have as many representatives in + the States General, as the Nobility and Clergy together: but five Bureaux + of the <i>Notables</i> have voted by very great majorities, that they + should have only an equal number with each of the other orders singly. One + bureau, by a majority of a single voice, had agreed to give the Commons + the double number of representatives. This is the first symptom of a + decided combination between the Nobility and Clergy, and will necessarily + throw the people into the scale of the King. It is doubted, whether the + States can be called so early as January, though the government, urged by + the want of money, is for pressing the convocation. It is still more + uncertain what the States will do when they meet: there are three objects + which they may attain, probably without opposition from the court; 1. A + periodical meeting of the States; 2. their exclusive right of taxation; 3. + the right of en-registering laws and proposing amendments to them, as now + exercised by the parliaments. This would lead, as it did in England, to + the right of originating laws. The parliament would, by the last measure, + be reduced to a mere judiciary body, and would probably oppose it. But + against the King and nation their opposition could not succeed. If the + States stop here, for the present moment, all will probably end well, and + they may, in future sessions, obtain a suppression of <i>lettres de cachet</i>, + a free press, a civil list, and other valuable mollifications of their + government. But it is to be feared, that an impatience to rectify every + thing at once, which prevails in some minds, may terrify the court, and + lead them to appeal to force, and to depend on that alone. + </p> + <p> + Before this can reach you, you will probably have heard of an <i>ArrĂŞt</i>, + passed the 28th of September, for prohibiting the introduction of foreign + whale-oils, without exception. The English had glutted the markets of this + country with their oils: it was proposed to exclude them, and an <i>ArrĂŞt</i> + was drawn, with an exception for us: in the last stage of the <i>ArrĂŞt</i>, + the exception was struck out, without my having any warning, or even + suspicion of this. I suspect this stroke came from the Count de la + Luzerne, minister of marine; but I cannot affirm it positively. As soon as + I was apprized of this, which was several days after it passed (because it + was kept secret till published in their seaports), I wrote to the Count de + Montmorin a letter, of which the enclosed is a copy, and had conferences + on the subject, from time to time, with him and the other ministers. I + found them prepossessed by the partial information of their Dunkirk + fishermen; and therefore thought it necessary to give them a view of the + whole subject in writing, which I did, in the piece, of which I enclose + you a printed copy. I therein entered into more details, than the question + between us seemed rigorously to require. I was led to them by other + objects. The most important was to disgust Mr. Necker, as an economist, + against their new fishery, by letting him foresee its expense. The + particular manufactures suggested to them, were in consequence of repeated + applications from the shippers of rice and tobacco: other details, which + do not appear immediately pertinent, were occasioned by circumstances + which had arisen in conversation, or an apparent necessity of giving + information on the whole matter. At a conference, in the presence of M. + Lambert, on the 16th (where I was ably aided by the Marquis de la Fayette, + as I have been through the whole business), it was agreed to except us + from the prohibition. But they will require rigorous assurance, that the + oils coming under our name are really of our fishery. They fear we shall + cover the introduction of the English oils from Halifax. The <i>ArrĂŞt</i> + for excepting us was communicated to me, but the formalities of proving + the oils to be American were not yet inserted. I suppose they will require + every vessel to bring a certificate from their Consul or Vice-Consul + residing in the State from which it comes. More difficult proofs were + sometimes talked of. I supposed I might surely affirm to them, that our + government would do whatever it could to prevent this fraud, because it is + as much our interest as theirs to keep the market for the French and + American oils only. I am told Massachusetts has prohibited the + introduction of foreign fish-oils into her ports. This law, if well + executed, will be an effectual guard against fraud; and a similar one in + the other States, interested in the fishery, would much encourage this + government to continue her indulgence to us. Though the <i>ArrĂŞt</i>, + then, for the re-admission of our oils is not yet passed, I think I may + assure you it will be so in a few days, and of course that this branch of + commerce, after so threatening an appearance, will be on a better footing + than ever, as enjoying, jointly with the French oil, a monopoly of their + markets. The continuance of this will depend on the growth of their + fishery. Whenever they become able to supply their own wants, it is very + possible they may refuse to take our oils; but I do not believe it + possible for them to raise their fishery to that, unless they can continue + to draw off our fishermen from us. Their seventeen ships, this year, had + one hundred and fifty of our sailors on board. I do not know what number + the English have got into their service. You will readily perceive, that + there are particulars in these printed observations, which it would not be + proper to suffer to become public. They were printed, merely that a copy + might be given to each minister, and care has been taken to let them go + into no other hands. + </p> + <p> + I must now trouble Congress with a petition on my own behalf. When I left + my own house in October, 1783, it was to attend Congress as a member, and + in expectation of returning in five or six months. In the month of May + following, however, I was desired to come to Europe, as member of a + commission, which was to continue two years only. I came off immediately, + without going home to make any other arrangements in my affairs, thinking + they would not suffer greatly before I should return to them. Before the + close of the two years, Doctor Franklin retiring from his charge here, + Congress were pleased to name me to it; so that I have been led on by + events to an absence of five years, instead of five months. In the mean + time, matters of great moment to others as well as myself, and which can + be arranged by nobody but myself, will await no longer. Another motive, of + still more powerful co-agency on my mind, is the necessity of carrying my + family back to their friends and country. I must, therefore, ask of + Congress a leave of short absence. Allowing three months on the sea, going + and coming, and two months at my own house, which will suffice for my + affairs, I need not be from Paris but between five and six months. I do + not foresee any thing which can suffer during my absence. The consular + convention is finished, except as to the exchange of ratification, which + will be the affair of a day only. The difference with Schweighaeuser and + Dobree, relative to our arms, will be finished. That of Denmark, if ever + finished, will probably be long spun out. The ransom of the Algerine + captives is the only matter likely to be on hand. That cannot be set on + foot till the money is raised in Holland, and an order received for its + application: probably these will take place, so that I may set it into + motion, before my departure; if not, I can still leave it on such a + footing, as to be put into motion the moment the money can be paid. And + even when the leave of Congress shall be received, I will not make use of + it, if there is any thing of consequence which may suffer; but would, + postpone my departure till circumstances will admit it. But should these + be as I expect they will, it will be vastly desirable to me to receive the + permission immediately, so that I may go out as soon as the vernal equinox + is over, and be sure of my return in good time and season in the fall. Mr. + Short, who had had thoughts of returning to America, will postpone that + return till I come back. His talents and character allow me to say, with + confidence, that nothing will suffer in his hands. The friendly + dispositions of Monsieur de Montmorin would induce him readily to + communicate with Mr. Short in his present character; but should any of his + applications be necessary to be laid before the Council, they might suffer + difficulty: nor could he attend the diplomatic societies, which are the + most certain sources of good intelligence. Would Congress think it + expedient to remove the difficulties, by naming him secretary of legation, + so that he would act of course as <i>chargĂ© des affaires</i> during my + absence? It would be just, that the difference between the salary of a + secretary and a secretary of legation should cease, as soon as he should + cease to be charged with the affairs of the United States; that is to say, + on my return: and he would expect that. So that this difference for five + or six months would be an affair of about one hundred and seventy guineas + only, which would be not more than equal to the additional expense that + would be brought on him necessarily by the change of character. I mention + these particulars, that Congress may see the end as well as beginning of + the proposition, and have only to add, ‘their will be done.’ Leave for me + being obtained, I will ask it, Sir, of your friendship, to avail yourself + of various occasions to the ports of France and England to convey me + immediate notice of it, and relieve me as soon as possible from the + anxiety of expectation, and the uncertainty in which I shall be. We have + been in daily expectation of hearing of the death of the King of England. + Our latest news are of the 11th. He had then been despaired of for three + or four days; but as my letter is to pass through England, you will have + later accounts of him than that can give you. I send you the newspapers to + this date, and have the honor to be, with the greatest esteem and respect, + Sir, your most obedient, humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + P. S. The last crop of corn in France has been so short, that they + apprehend want. Mr. Necker desires me to make known this scarcity to our + merchants, in hopes they would send supplies. I promised him I would. If + it could be done without naming him, it would be agreeable to him, and + probably advantageous to the adventurers. T. J. + </p> + <p> + [The annexed are the observations on the subject of admitting our + whale-oil in the markets of France, referred to in the preceding letter.] + </p> + <p> + Whale-oil enters, as a raw material, into several branches of manufacture, + as of wool, leather, soap: it is used also in painting, architecture, and + navigation. But its great consumption is in lighting houses and cities. + For this last purpose, however, it has a powerful competitor in the + vegetable oils. These do well in warm, still weather, but they fix with + cold, they extinguish easily with the wind, their crop is precarious, + depending on the seasons, and to yield the same light, a larger wick must + be used, and greater quantity of oil consumed. Estimating all these + articles of difference together, those employed in lighting cities find + their account in giving about twenty-five per cent, more for whale than + for vegetable oils. But higher than this the whale-oil, in its present + form, cannot rise; because it then becomes more advantageous to the city + lighters to use others. This competition, then, limits its price, higher + than which no encouragement can raise it; and it becomes, as it were, a + law of its nature. But, at this low price, the whale-fishery is the + poorest business into which a merchant or sailor can enter. If the sailor, + instead of wages, has a part of what is taken, he finds that this, one + year with another, yields him less than he could have got as wages in any + other business. It is attended, too, with great risk, singular hardships, + and long absence from his family, if the voyage is made solely at the + expense of the merchant, he finds that, one year with another, it does not + reimburse him his expense. As for example; an English ship of three + hundred tons and forty-two hands brings home, <i>communibus annis</i>, + after four months’ voyage, twenty-five tons of oil, worth four hundred and + thirty-seven pounds ten shillings sterling. But the wages of the officers + and seamen will be four hundred pounds; the outfit, then, and the + merchants’ profit, must be paid by the government: and it is accordingly + on this idea, that the British bounty is calculated. From the poverty of + this business, then, it has happened, that the nations who have taken it + up have successively abandoned it. The Basques began it: but though the + most economical and enterprising of the inhabitants of France, they could + not continue it; and it is said, they never employed more than thirty + ships a year. The Dutch and Hanse towns succeeded them. The latter gave it + up long ago. The English carried it on, in competition with the Dutch, + during the last and beginning of the present century: but it was too + little profitable for them, in comparison with other branches of commerce + open to them. + </p> + <p> + In the mean time, the inhabitants of the barren island of Nantucket had + taken up this fishery, invited to it by the whales presenting themselves + on their own shore. To them, therefore, the English relinquished it, + continuing to them, as British subjects, the importation of their oils + into England, duty free, while foreigners were subject to a duty of + eighteen pounds five shillings sterling a ton. The Dutch were enabled to + continue it long, because, 1. They are so near the northern fishing + grounds, that a vessel begins her fishing very soon after she is out of + port. 2. They navigate with more economy than the other nations of Europe. + 3. Their seamen are content with lower wages: and, 4. Their merchants, + with a lower profit on their capital. Under all these favorable + circumstances, however, this branch of business, after long languishing, + is at length nearly extinct with them. It is said, they did not send above + half a dozen ships in pursuit of the whale this present year. The <i>Nantuckois</i>, + then, were the only people who exercised this fishery to any extent at the + commencement of the late war. Their country, from its barrenness yielding + no subsistence, they were obliged to seek it in the sea which surrounded + them. Their economy was more rigorous than that of the Dutch. Their + seamen, instead of wages, had a share in what was taken: this induced them + to fish with fewer hands, so that each had a greater dividend in the + profit; it made them more vigilant in seeking game, bolder in pursuing it, + and parsimonious in all their expenses. London was their only market. + When, therefore, by the late revolution, they became aliens in Great + Britain, they became subject to the alien duty of eighteen pounds five + shillings the ton of oil, which being more than equal to the price of the + common whale-oil, they are obliged to abandon that fishery. So that this + people, who, before the war, had employed upwards of three hundred vessels + a year in the whale-fishery (while Great Britain had herself never + employed one hundred), have now almost ceased to exercise it. But they + still had the seamen, the most important material for this fishery; and + they still retained the spirit for fishing: so that, at the + re-establishment of peace, they were capable, in a very short time, of + reviving their fishery in all its splendor. The British government saw + that the moment was critical. They knew that their own share in that + fishery was as nothing: that the great mass of fishermen was left with a + nation now separated from them: that these fishermen, however, had lost + their ancient market; had no other resource within their country to which + they could turn and they hoped, therefore, they might, in the present + moment of distress, be decoyed over to their establishments, and be added + to the mass of their seamen. To effect this, they offered extravagant + advantages to all persons who should exercise the whale-fishery from + British establishments. But not counting with much confidence on a long + connection with their remaining possessions on the continent of America, + foreseeing that the <i>Nantuckois</i> would settle in them, preferably, if + put on an equal footing with those of Great Britain, and that thus they + might have to purchase them a second time, they confined their high offers + to settlers in Great Britain. The <i>Nantuckois</i>, left without resource + by the loss of their market, began to think of removing to the British + dominions; some to Nova Scotia, preferring smaller advantages in the + neighborhood of their ancient country and friends; others to Great + Britain, postponing country and friends to high premiums. A vessel was + already arrived from Halifax to Nantucket, to take off some of those who + proposed to remove; two families had gone on board, and others were going, + when a letter was received there, which had been written by Monsieur le + Marquis de la Fayette, to a gentleman in Boston, and transmitted by him to + Nantucket. The purport of the letter was to dissuade their accepting the + British proposals, and to assure them that their friends in France would + endeavor to do something for them. This instantly suspended their design: + not another went on board, and the vessel returned to Halifax with only + the two families. + </p> + <p> + In fact the French government had not been inattentive to the views of the + British, nor insensible to the crisis. They saw the danger of permitting + five or six thousand of the best seamen existing, to be transferred by a + single stroke to the marine strength of their enemy, and to carry over + with them an art which they possessed almost exclusively. The counterplan + which they set on foot was to tempt the <i>Nantuckois</i>, by high offers, + to come and settle in France. This was in the year 1785. The British, + however, had in their favor, a sameness of language, religion, laws, + habits, and kindred. Nine families only, of thirty-three persons in the + whole, came to Dunkirk; so that this project was not likely to prevent + their emigration to the English establishments, if nothing else had + happened. + </p> + <p> + France had effectually aided in detaching the United States of America + from the force of Great Britain: but as yet they seemed to have indulged + only a silent wish to detach them from her commerce. They had done nothing + to induce that event. In the same year, 1785, while M. de Calonne was in + treaty with the <i>Nantuckois</i>, an estimate of the commerce of the + United States was submitted to the Count de Vergennes, and it was shown, + that, of three millions of pounds sterling, to which their exports + amounted, one third might be brought to France, and exchanged against her + productions and manufactures, advantageously for both nations; provided + the obstacles of prohibition, monopoly, and duty, were either done away, + or moderated as far as circumstances would admit. A committee, which had + been appointed to investigate a particular one of these objects, was + thereupon instructed to extend its researches to the whole, and see what + advantages and facilities the government could offer, for the + encouragement of a general commerce with the United States. The committee + was composed of persons well skilled in commerce; and after laboring + assiduously for several months, they made their report: the result of + which was given in the letter of his Majesty’s Comptroller General, of the + 22nd of October, 1786, wherein he stated the principles which should be + established, for the future regulation of the commerce between France and + the United States. It was become tolerably evident, at the date of this + letter, that the terms offered to the <i>Nantuckois</i> would not produce + their emigration to Dunkirk; and that it would be safest, in every event, + to offer some other alternative, which might prevent their acceptance of + the British offers. The obvious one was, to open the ports of France to + their oils, so that they might still exercise their fishery, remaining in + their native country, and find a new market for its produce, instead of + that which they had lost. The article of whale-oil was, accordingly, + distinguished in the letter of M. de Calonne, by an immediate abatement of + duty, and promise of further abatement, after the year 1790. This letter + was instantly sent to America, and bid fair to produce there the effect + intended, by determining the fishermen to carry on their trade from their + own homes, with the advantage only of a free market in France, rather than + remove to Great Britain, where a free market and great bounty were offered + them. An <i>ArrĂŞt</i> was still to be prepared, to give legal sanction to + the letter of M. de Calonne. Monsieur Lambert, with a patience and + assiduity almost unexampled, went through all the investigations necessary + to assure himself, that the conclusion of the committee had been just. + Frequent conferences on this subject were held in his presence; the + deputies of the chambers of commerce were heard, and the result was, the + <i>ArrĂŞt</i> of December the 29th, 1787, confirming the abatements of + duty, present and future, which the letter of October, 1786, had promised, + and reserving to his Majesty, to grant still further favors to that + production, if, on further information, he should find it for the interest + of the two nations. + </p> + <p> + The English had now begun to deluge the markets of France with their + whale-oils; and they were enabled by the great premiums given by their + government, to undersell the French fisherman, aided by feebler premiums, + and the American, aided by his poverty alone. Nor is it certain, that + these speculations were not made at the risk of the British government, to + suppress the French and American fishermen in their only market. Some + remedy seemed necessary. Perhaps it would not have been a bad one, to + subject, by a general law, the merchandise of every nation and of every + nature, to pay additional duties in the ports of France, exactly equal to + the premiums and drawbacks given on the same merchandise by their own + government. This might not only counteract the effect of premiums in the + instance of whale-oils, but attack the whole British system of bounties + and drawbacks, by the aid of which they make London the centre of commerce + for the whole earth. A less general remedy, but an effectual one, was, to + prohibit the oils of all European nations: the treaty with England + requiring only, that she should be treated as well as the most favored + European nation. But the remedy adopted was, to prohibit all oils, without + exception. + </p> + <p> + To know how this remedy will operate, we must consider the quantity of + whale-oil which France consumes annually, the quantity she obtains from + her own fishery; and, if she obtains less than she consumes, we are to + consider what will follow the prohibition. + </p> + <p> + The annual consumption of France, as stated by a person who has good + opportunities of knowing it, is as follows. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + lbs. pesant. quinteaux. tons. +</pre> + <p> + Paris, according to the registers of + 1786,.................................2,800,000 28,000 1750 + </p> + <p> + Twenty-seven other cities, lighted by M. Sangrain,........................ + 800,000 8,000 500 + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +Rouen,..................................500,000 5,000 312 +Bordeaux,...............................600,000 6,000 375 +Lyons,..................................300,000 3,000 187 +Other cities, leather and light,......3,000,000 30,000 1875 + ————- ——— —— + 8,000,000 80,000 5,000 +</pre> + <p> + Other calculations, or say rather, conjectures, reduce the consumption to + about half this. It is treating these conjectures with great respect, to + place them on an equal footing with the estimate of the person before + alluded to, and to suppose the truth half way between them. But we will do + it, and call the present consumption of France only sixty thousand + quintals, or three thousand seven hundred and fifty tons a year. This + consumption is increasing fast, as the practice of lighting cities is + becoming more general, and the superior advantages of lighting them with + whale-oil are but now beginning to be known. + </p> + <p> + What do the fisheries of France furnish? She has employed, this year, + fifteen vessels in the southern, and two in the northern fishery, carrying + forty-five hundred tons in the whole, or two hundred and sixty-five each, + on an average. The English ships, led by Nantuckois as well as the French, + have never averaged in the southern fishery, more than one fifth of their + burthen, in the best year. The fifteen ships of France, according to this + ground of calculation, and supposing the present to have been one of the + best years, should have brought, one with another, one fifth of two + hundred and sixty-five tons, or fifty-three tons each. But we are told, + they have brought near the double of that, to wit, one hundred tons each, + and fifteen hundred tons in the whole. Supposing the two northern vessels + to have brought home the cargo which is common from the northern fishery, + to wit, twenty-five tons each, the whole produce this year will then be + fifteen hundred and fifty tons. This is five and a half months’provision, + or two fifths of the annual consumption. To furnish for the whole year, + would require forty ships of the same size, in years as fortunate as the + present, and eighty-five, <i>communibus annis</i>; forty-four tons, or one + sixth of the burthen, being as high an average as should be counted on, + one year with another: and the number must be increased, with the + increasing consumption. France, then, is evidently not yet in a condition + to supply her own wants. It is said, indeed, she has a large stock on + hand, unsold, occasioned by the English competition. Thirty-three thousand + quintals, including this year’s produce, are spoken of: this is between + six and seven months’provision; and supposing by the time this is + exhausted that the next year’s supply comes in, that will enable her to go + on five or six months longer; say a twelvemonth in the whole. But, at the + end of the twelvemonth, what is to be done? The manufacturers depending on + this article, cannot maintain their competition against those of other + countries, if deprived of their equal means. When the alternative, then, + shall be presented, of letting them drop, or opening the ports to foreign + whale-oil, it is presumable the latter will be adopted, as the lesser + evil. But it will be too late for America. Her fishery, annihilated during + the late war, only began to raise its head, on the prospect of a market + held out by this country. Crushed by the <i>ArrĂŞt</i> of September the + 28th, in its first feeble effort to revive, it will rise no more. + Expeditions, which require the expense of the outfit of vessels, and from + nine to twelve months’ navigation, as the southern fishery does, most + frequented by the Americans, cannot be undertaken in sole reliance on a + market, which is opened and shut from one day to another, with little or + no warning. The English alone, then, will remain to furnish these + supplies, and they must be received, even from them. We must accept bread + from our enemies, if our friends cannot furnish it. This comes exactly to + the point, to which that government has been looking. She fears no rival + in the whale-fishery, but America: or rather, it is the whale-fishery of + America, of which she is endeavoring to possess herself. It is for this + object, she is making the present extraordinary efforts, by bounties and + other encouragements: and her success, so far, is very flattering. Before + the war, she had not one hundred vessels in the whale-trade, while America + employed three hundred and nine. In 1786, Great Britain employed one + hundred and fifty-one vessels; in 1787, two hundred and eighty-six; in + 1788, three hundred and fourteen, nearly the ancient American number: + while the latter has fallen to about eighty. They have just changed places + then; England having gained, exactly what America has lost. France, by her + ports and markets, holds the balance between the two contending parties, + and gives the victory, by opening and shutting them, to which she pleases. + We have still precious remains of seamen, educated in this fishery, and + capable by their poverty, their boldness, and address, of recovering it + from the English, in spite of their bounties. But this Arret endangers the + transferring to Great Britain every man of them, who is not invincibly + attached to his native soil. There is no other nation in present condition + to maintain a competition with Great Britain in the whale-fishery. The + expense, at which it is supported on her part, seems enormous. Two hundred + and fifty-five vessels, of seventy-five thousand four hundred and + thirty-six tons, employed by her, this year, in the northern fishery, at + forty-two men each; and fifty-nine in the southern, at eighteen men each, + make eleven thousand seven hundred and seventy-two men. These are known to + have cost the government fifteen pounds each, or one hundred and + seventy-six thousand five hundred and eighty pounds, in the whole, and + that, to employ the principal part of them from three to four months only. + The northern ships have brought home twenty, and the southern sixty tons + of oil, on an average; making eighty-six hundred and forty tons. Every ton + of oil, then, has cost the government twenty pounds in bounty. Still, if + they can beat, us out of the field, and have it to themselves, they will + think their money well employed. If France undertakes, solely, the + competition against them, she must do it at equal expense. The trade is + too poor to support itself. The eighty-five ships, necessary to supply + even her present consumption, bountied, as the English are, will require a + sacrifice of twelve hundred and eighty-five thousand two hundred livres a + year, to maintain three thousand five hundred and seventy seamen, and + that, a part of the year only; and if she will put it to twelve thousand + men, in competition with England, she must sacrifice, as they do, four or + five millions a year. The same number of men might, with the same bounty, + be kept in as constant employ, carrying stone from Bayonne to Cherburg, or + coal from Newcastle to Havre, in which navigations they would be always at + hand, and become as good seamen. The English consider among their best + sailors, those employed to carry coal from Newcastle to London. France + cannot expect to raise her fishery, even to the supply of her own + consumption, in one year, or in several years. Is it not better, then, by + keeping her ports open to the United States, to enable them to aid in + maintaining the field against the common adversary, till she shall be in + condition to take it herself, and to supply her own wants? Otherwise her + supplies must aliment that very force, which is keeping her under. On our + part, we can never be dangerous competitors to France. The extent to which + we can exercise this fishery, is limited to that of the barren island of + Nantucket, and a few similar barren spots; its duration, to the pleasure + of this government, as we have no other market. A material observation + must be added here: sudden vicissitudes of opening and shutting ports, do + little injury to merchants settled on the opposite coast, watching for the + opening, like the return of a tide, and ready to enter with it. But they + ruin the adventurer, whose distance requires six months’ notice. Those who + are now arriving from America, in consequence of the Arret of December the + 29th, will consider it as the false light which has led them to their + ruin. They will be apt to say, that they come to the ports of France by + invitation of that <i>ArrĂŞt</i>, that the subsequent one of September the + 28th, which drives them from those ports, founds itself on a single + principle, viz. ‘that the prohibition of foreign oils is the most useful + encouragement which can be given to that branch of industry.’ They will + say, that, if this be a true principle, it was as true on the 29th of + December 1787, as on the 20th of September, 1788: it was then weighed + against other motives, judged weaker and overruled, and it is hard it + should be now revived, to ruin them. + </p> + <p> + The refinery for whale-oil, lately established at Rouen, seems to be an + object worthy of national attention. In order to judge of its importance, + the different qualities of whale-oil must be noted. Three qualities are + known in the American and English markets. 1st. That of the spermaceti + whale. 2nd. Of the Greenland whale. 3rd. Of the Brazil whale. 1. The + spermaceti whale found by the <i>Nantuckois</i>, in the neighborhood of + the Western Islands, to which they had gone in pursuit of other whales, + retired thence to the coast of Guinea, afterwards to that of Brazil, and + begins now to be best found in the latitude of the Cape of Good Hope, and + even of Cape Horn. He is an active, fierce animal, and requires vast + address and boldness in the fisherman. The inhabitants of Brazil make + little expeditions from their coast, and take some of these fish. But the + Americans are the only distant people, who have been in the habit of + seeking and attacking him, in numbers. The British, however, led by the <i>Nantuckois</i>, + whom they have decoyed into their service, have begun this fishery. In + 1785, they had eighteen ships in it; in 1787, thirty-eight; in 1788, + fifty-four, or, as some say, sixty-four. I have calculated on the middle + number, fifty-nine. Still they take but a very small proportion of their + own demand; we furnish the rest. Theirs is the only market to which we + carry that oil, because it is the only one where its properties are known. + It is luminous, resists coagulation by cold, to the forty-first degree of + Fahrenheit’s thermometer, and fourth of Reaumur’s, and yields no smell at + all: it is used, therefore, within doors, to lighten shops, and even in + the richest houses, for antichambers, stairs, galleries, &c. It sells + at the London market for treble the price of common whale-oil. This + enables the adventurer to pay the duty of eighteen pounds five shillings + sterling the ton, and still to have a living profit. Besides the mass of + oil produced from the whole body of the whale, his head yields three or + four barrels of what is called head-matter, from which is made the solid + spermaceti, used for medicine and candles. This sells by the pound at + double the price of the oil. The disadvantage of this fishery is, that the + sailors are from nine to twelve months absent on the voyage; of course, + they are not at hand on any sudden emergency, and are even liable to be + taken, before they know that war is begun. It must be added, on the + subject of this whale, that he is rare and shy, soon abandoning the + grounds where he is hunted. This fishery, less losing than the other, and + often profitable, will occasion it to be so thronged, soon, as to bring it + on a level with the other. It will then require the same expensive + support, or to be abandoned. + </p> + <p> + 2. The Greenland whale-oil is next in quality. It resists coagulation by + cold, to thirty-six degrees of Fahrenheit, and two of Reaumur, but it has + a smell insupportable within doors, and is not luminous. It sells, + therefore, in London, at about sixteen pounds the ton. This whale is + clumsy and timid; he dives when struck, and comes up to breathe by the + first cake of ice, where the fishermen need little address or courage to + find and take him. This is the fishery mostly frequented by European + nations; it is this fish which yields the fin in quantity, and the voyages + last about three or four months. + </p> + <p> + The third quality is that of the small Brazil whale. He was originally + found on the coast of Nantucket, and first led that people to this + pursuit: he retired, first to the Banks of Newfoundland, then to the + Western Islands, and is now found within soundings on the coast of Brazil, + during the months of December, January, February, and March. His oil + chills at fifty-two degrees of Fahrenheit, and eight of Reaumur, is black + and offensive; worth, therefore, but thirteen pounds the ton, in London. + In warm summer nights, however, it burns better than the Greenland oil. + </p> + <p> + To the qualities of the oils thus described, it is to be added, that an + individual has discovered methods, 1. of converting a great part of the + oils of the spermaceti-whale, into the solid substance called spermaceti, + heretofore produced from his head alone; 2. of refining the Greenland + whale-oil, so as to take from it all smell, and render it limpid and + luminous as that of the spermaceti-whale; 3. of curdling the oil of the + Brazil whale into tallow, resembling that of beef, and answering all its + purposes. This person is engaged by the company, which has established the + refinery at Rouen: their works will cost them half a million of livres; + will be able to refine all the oil which can be used in the kingdom, and + even to supply foreign markets. The effects of the refinery, then, would + be, 1. to supplant the solid spermaceti of all other nations, by theirs, + of equal quality and lower price; 2. to substitute, instead of + spermaceti-oil, their black whale-oil refined, of equal quality and lower + price; 3. to render the worthless oil of the Brazil, equal in value to + tallow; and 4. by accommodating these oils to uses, to which they could + never otherwise have been applied, they will extend the demand beyond its + present narrow limits, to any supply which can be furnished, and thus give + the most effectual encouragement and extension to the whale-fishery. But + these works were calculated on the <i>ArrĂŞt</i> of December the 29th, + which admitted here, freely and fully, the produce of the American + fishery. If confined to that of the French fishery alone, the enterprise + may fail, for want of matter to work on. + </p> + <p> + After this review of the whale-fishery as a political institution, a few + considerations shall be added on its produce, as a basis of commercial + exchange between France and the United States. The discussions it has + undergone, on former occasions, in this point of view, leaves little new + to be now urged. + </p> + <p> + The United States, not possessing mines of the precious metals, can + purchase necessaries from other nations, so far only as their produce is + received in exchange. Without enumerating our smaller articles, we have + three of principal importance, proper for the French market; to wit, + tobacco, whale-oil, and rice. The first and most important, is tobacco. + This might furnish an exchange for eight millions of the productions of + this country; but it is under a monopoly, and that not of a mercantile, + but of a financiering company, whose interest is, to pay in money and not + in merchandise, and who are so much governed by the spirit of simplifying + their purchases and proceedings, that they find means to elude every + endeavor on the part of government, to make them diffuse their purchases + among the merchants in general. Little profit is derived from this, then, + as an article of exchange for the produce and manufactures of France. + Whale-oil might be next in importance; but that is now prohibited. + American rice is not yet of great, but it is of growing consumption in + France, and being the only article of the three which is free, it may + become a principal basis of exchange. Time and trial may add a fourth, + that is, timber. But some essays, rendered unsuccessful by unfortunate + circumstances, place that, at present, under a discredit, which it will be + found hereafter not to have merited. The English know its value, and were + supplied with it, before the war. A spirit of hostility, since that event, + led them to seek Russian rather than American supplies; a new spirit of + hostility has driven them back from Russia, and they are now making + contracts for American timber. But of the three articles before mentioned, + proved by experience to be suitable for the French market, one is + prohibited, one under monopoly, and one alone free, and that the smallest + and of very limited consumption. The way to encourage purchasers, is, to + multiply their means of payment. Whale-oil might be an important one. In + one scale, are the interests of the millions who are lighted, shod, or + clothed with the help of it, and the thousands of laborers and + manufacturers, who would be employed in producing the articles which might + be given in exchange for it, if received from America: in the other scale, + are the interests of the adventurers in the whale-fishery each of whom, + indeed, politically considered, may be of more importance to the State, + than a simple laborer or manufacturer; but to make the estimate with the + accuracy it merits, we should multiply the numbers in each scale into + their individual importance, and see which preponderates. + </p> + <p> + Both governments have seen with concern, that their commercial intercourse + does not grow as rapidly as they would wish. The system of the United + States is, to use neither prohibitions nor premiums. Commerce, there, + regulates itself freely, and asks nothing better. Where a government finds + itself under the necessity of undertaking that regulation, it would seem, + that it should conduct it as an intelligent merchant would; that is to + say, invite customers to purchase, by facilitating their means of payment, + and by adapting goods to their taste. If this idea be just, government + here has two operations to attend to, with respect to the commerce of the + United States; 1. to do away, or to moderate, as much as possible, the + prohibitions and monopolies of their materials for payment; 2. to + encourage the institution of the principal manufactures, which the + necessities, or the habits of their new customers call for. Under this + latter head, a hint shall be suggested, which must find its apology in the + motive from which it flows; that is, a desire of promoting mutual + interests and close friendship. Six hundred thousand of the laboring poor + of America, comprehending slaves under that denomination, are clothed in + three of the simplest manufactures possible; to wit, oznaburgs, plains, + and duffel blankets. The first is a linen; the two last, woollens. It + happens, too, that they are used exactly by those who cultivate the + tobacco and rice, and in a good degree by those employed in the + whale-fishery. To these manufactures they are so habituated, that no + substitute will be received. If the vessels which bring tobacco, rice, and + whale-oil, do not find them in the ports of delivery, they must be sought + where they can be found; that is, in England, at present. If they were + made in France, they would be gladly taken in exchange there. The + quantities annually used by this description of people, and their value, + are as follows: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Oznaburgs 2,700,000 aunes, at sixteen sous the aune, worth + 2,160,000 + + Plains 1,350,000 aunes, at two livres the aune, + 2,700,000 + + Duffel Blankets 300,000 aunes, at seven and 4/5ths livres each + 2,160,000 + ————— + 7,020,000 +</pre> + <p> + It would be difficult to say, how much should be added, for the + consumption of inhabitants of other descriptions; a great deal surely. But + the present view shall be confined to the one description named. Seven + millions of livres, are nine millions of days’ work, of those who raise, + spin, and weave the wool and flax; and, at three hundred working days to + the year, would maintain thirty thousand people. To introduce these simple + manufactures, suppose government to give five per cent, on the value of + what should be exported of them, for ten years to come: if none should be + exported, nothing would be to be paid: but on the other hand, if the + manufactures, with this encouragement, should rise to the full demand, it + will be a sacrifice of three hundred and fifty-one thousand livres a year, + for ten years only, to produce a perpetual subsistence for more than + thirty thousand people (for the demand will grow with our population); + while she must expend perpetually one million two hundred and eighty-five + thousand livres a year, to maintain the three thousand five hundred and + seventy seamen, who would supply her with whale-oil. That is to say, for + each seaman, as much as for thirty laborers and manufacturers. + </p> + <p> + But to return to our subject, and to conclude. + </p> + <p> + Whether, then, we consider the <i>ArrĂŞt</i> of September the 28th, in a + political or a commercial light, it would seem, that the United States + should be excepted from its operation. Still more so, when they invoke + against it the amity subsisting between the two nations, the desire of + binding them together by every possible interest and connection, the + several acts in favor of this exception, the dignity of legislation, which + admits not of changes backwards and forwards, the interests of commerce, + which requires steady regulations, the assurances of the friendly motives + which have led the King to pass these acts, and the hope, that no cause + will arise, to change either his motives or his measures towards us. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0172" id="link2H_4_0172"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLXXI.—TO JOHN JAY, November 29, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, November 29, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + In the hurry of making up my letter of the 19th instant, I omitted the + enclosed printed paper, on the subject of whale-oil. That omission is now + supplied by another conveyance, by the way of London. The explanatory <i>ArrĂŞt</i> + is not yet come out. I still take for granted, it will pass, though there + be an opposition to it in the Council. In the mean time, orders are given + to receive our oils which may arrive. The apprehension of a want of corn + has induced them to turn their eyes to foreign supplies; and to show their + preference of receiving them from us, they have passed the enclosed <i>ArrĂŞt</i>, + giving a premium on wheat and flour from the United States, for a limited + time. This, you will doubtless think proper to have translated and + published. The <i>Notables</i> are still in session: the votes of the + separate bureaux have not yet been reduced to a joint act, in an assembly + of the whole. I see no reason to suppose they will change the separate + votes relative to the representation of the <i>Tiers Etat</i> in the + States General. In the mean time, the stream of public indignation, + heretofore directed against the court, sets strongly against the <i>Notables</i>. + It is not yet decided when the States will meet: but certainly they + cannot, till February or March. The Turks have retired across the Danube. + This movement indicates their going into winter-quarters, and the severity + of the weather must hasten it. The thermometer was yesterday at eight + degrees of Fahrenheit, that is, twenty-four degrees below freezing; a + degree of cold equal to that of the year 1740, which they count here among + their coldest winters. This having continued many days, and being still + likely to continue, and the wind from northeast, render it probable, that + all enterprise must be suspended between the three great belligerent + powers. Poland is likely to be thrown into great convulsions. The Empress + of Russia has peremptorily demanded such aids from Poland, as might engage + it in the war. The King of Prussia, on the other hand, threatens to march + an army on their borders. The vote of the Polish confederacy for one + hundred thousand men, was a coalition of the two parties, in that single + act only. The party opposed to the King, have obtained a majority, and + have voted that this army shall be independent of him. They are supported + by Prussia, while the King depends on Russia. Authentic information from + England leaves not a doubt, that the King is lunatic; and that, instead of + the effect, is the cause of the illness, under which he has been so near + dying. I mention this, because the English newspapers, speaking by guess + on that as they do on all other subjects, might mislead you as to his true + situation; or rather, might mislead others, who know less than you do, + that a thing is not rendered the more probable, by being mentioned in + those papers. + </p> + <p> + I enclose those of Leyden to the present date, with the gazettes of + France, and have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect + esteem and respect, Sir, your most obedient, humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0173" id="link2H_4_0173"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER, CLXXII.—TO GENERAL WASHINGTON, December 4, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. + </p> + <p> + Paris, December 4, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + Your favor of August the 31st came to hand yesterday; and a confidential + conveyance offering, by the way of London, I avail myself of it, to + acknowledge the receipt. + </p> + <p> + I have seen, with infinite pleasure, our new constitution accepted by + eleven States, not rejected by the twelfth; and that the thirteenth + happens to be a state of the least importance. It is true, that the + minorities in most of the accepting States have been very respectable; so + much so, as to render it prudent, were it not otherwise reasonable, to + make some sacrifice to them. I am in hopes, that the annexation of a bill + of rights to the constitution will alone draw over so great a proportion + of the minorities, as to leave little danger in the opposition of the + residue; and that this annexation may be made by Congress and the + Assemblies, without calling a convention, which might endanger the most + valuable parts of the system. Calculation has convinced me, that + circumstances may arise, and probably will arise, wherein all the + resources of taxation will be necessary for the safety of the State. For + though I am decidedly of opinion, we should take no part in European + quarrels, but cultivate peace and commerce with all, yet who can avoid + seeing the source of war in the tyranny of those nations, who deprive us + of the natural right of trading with our neighbors? The produce of the + United States will soon exceed the European demand: what is to be done + with the surplus, when there shall be one? It will be employed, without + question, to open, by force, a market for itself, with those placed on the + same continent with us, and who wish nothing better. Other causes, too, + are obvious, which may involve us in war; and war requires every resource + of taxation and credit. The power of making war often prevents it, and in + our case, would give efficacy to our desire of peace. If the new + government wears the front which I hope it will, I see no impossibility in + the availing ourselves of the wars of others, to open the other parts of + America to our commerce, as the price of our neutrality. + </p> + <p> + The campaign between the Turks and two Empires has been clearly in favor + of the former. The Emperor is secretly trying to bring about a peace. The + alliance between England, Prussia, and Holland, (and some suspect Sweden + also) renders their mediation decisive, wherever it is proposed. They + seemed to interpose it so magisterially between Denmark and Sweden, that + the former submitted to its dictates, and there was all reason to believe, + that the war in the northwestern parts of Europe would be, quieted. All of + a sudden, a new flame bursts out in Poland. The King and his party are + devoted to Russia. The opposition rely on the protection of Prussia. They + have lately become the majority in the confederated diet, and have passed + a vote for subjecting their army to a commission independent of the King, + and propose a perpetual diet, in which case he will be a perpetual cipher. + Russia declares against such a change in their constitution, and Prussia + has put an army into readiness, for marching, at a moment’s warning, on + the frontier of Poland. These events are too recent, to see, as yet, what + turn they will take, or what effect they will have on the peace of Europe. + So is that also, of the lunacy of the King of England, which is a decided + fact, notwithstanding all the stuff the English papers publish, about his + fevers, his deliriums, &c. The truth is, that the lunacy declared + itself almost at once, and with as few concomitant complaints, as usually + attend the first developement of that disorder. I suppose a regency will + be established, and if it consists of a plurality of members, it will, + probably, be peaceable. In this event, it will much favor the present + wishes of this country, which are so decidedly for peace, that they + refused to enter into the mediation between Sweden and Russia, lest it + should commit them. As soon as the convocation of the States General was + announced, a tranquillity took place through the whole kingdom: happily, + no open rupture had taken place, in any part of it. The parliament were + re-instated in their functions, at the same time. This was all they + desired; and they had called for the States General, only through fear + that the crown could not otherwise be forced to re-instate them. Their end + obtained, they began to foresee danger to themselves, in the States + General. They began to lay the foundation for caviling at the legality of + that body, if its measures should be hostile to them. The court, to clear + itself of the dispute, convened the <i>Notables</i>, who had acted with + general approbation on the former occasion, and referred to them the forms + of calling and organizing the States General. These <i>Notables</i> + consist principally of Nobility and Clergy; the few of the <i>Tiers Etat</i> + among them, being either parliament men, or other privileged persons. The + court wished, that, in the future States General, the members of the <i>Tiers + Etat</i> should equal those of both the other orders, and that they should + form but one House, all together, and vote by persons, not by orders. But + the <i>Notables</i>, in the true spirit of Priests and Nobles, combining + together against the people, have voted, by five bureaux out of six, that + the people, or <i>Tiers Etat</i>, shall have no greater number of + deputies, than each of the other orders separately, and that they shall + vote by orders: so that two orders concurring in a vote, the third will be + overruled; for it is not here as in England, where each of the three + branches has a negative on the other two. If this project of theirs + succeeds, a combination between the two Houses of Clergy and Nobles will + render the representation of the <i>Tiers Etat</i> merely nugatory. The + bureaux are to assemble together, to consolidate their separate votes: but + I see no reasonable hope of their changing this. Perhaps the King, knowing + that he may count on the support of the nation, and attach it more closely + to him, may take on himself to disregard the opinion of the <i>Notables</i> + in this instance, and may call an equal representation of the people, in + which precedents will support him. In every event, I think the present + disquiet will end well. The nation has been awaked by our Revolution; they + feel their strength, they are enlightened, their lights are spreading, and + they will not retrograde. The first States General may establish three + important points, without opposition from the court; 1. their own + periodical convocation; 2. their exclusive right of taxation (which has + been confessed by the King); 3. the right of registering laws, and of + previously proposing amendments to them, as the parliaments have, by + usurpation, been in the habit of doing. The court will consent to this, + from its hatred to the parliaments, and from the desire of having to do + with one, rather than many legislatures. If the States are prudent, they + will not aim at more than this at first, lest they should shock the + dispositions of the court, and even alarm the public mind, which must be + left to open itself, by degrees, to successive improvements. These will + follow, from the nature of things: how far they can proceed, in the end, + towards a thorough reformation of abuse, cannot be foreseen. In my + opinion, a kind of influence, which none of their plans of reform take + into account, will elude them all; I mean the influence of women in the + government. The manners of the nation allow them to visit, alone, all + persons in office, to solicit the affairs of the husband, family, or + friends, and their solicitations bid defiance to laws and regulations. + This obstacle may seem less to those, who, like our countrymen, are in the + precious habit of considering right, as a barrier against all + solicitation. Nor can such an one, without the evidence of his own eyes, + believe in the desperate state to which things are reduced in this + country, from the omnipotence of an influence, which, fortunately for the + happiness of the sex itself, does not endeavor to extend itself, in our + country, beyond the domestic line. + </p> + <p> + Your communications to the Count de Moustier, whatever they may have been, + cannot have done injury to my endeavors here, to open the West Indies to + us. On this head, the ministers are invincibly mute, though I have often + tried to draw them into the subject. I have therefore found it necessary + to let it lie, till war, or other circumstances, may force it on. Whenever + they are in war with England, they must open the islands to us, and + perhaps, during that war, they may see some price which might make them + agree to keep them always open. In the mean time, I have laid my shoulder + to the opening the markets of this country to our produce, and rendering + its transportation a nursery for our seamen. A maritime force is the only + one, by which we can act on Europe. Our navigation law (if it be wise to + have any) should be the reverse of that of England. Instead of confining + importations to home-bottoms, or those of the producing nation, I think we + should confine exportations to home-bottoms, or to those of nations having + treaties with us. Our exportations are heavy, and would nourish a great + force of our own, or be a tempting price to the nation to whom we should + offer a participation of it, in exchange for free access to all their + possessions. This is an object to which our government alone is adequate, + in the gross; but I have ventured to pursue it here, so far as the + consumption of our productions by this country extends. Thus, in our + arrangements relative to tobacco, none can be received here, but in French + or American bottoms. This is employment for near two thousand seamen, and + puts nearly that number of British out of employ. By the <i>ArrĂŞt</i> of + December, 1787, it was provided, that our whale-oils should not be + received here, but in French or American bottoms; and by later + regulations, all oils, but those of France and America, are excluded. This + will put one hundred English whale vessels immediately out of employ, and + one hundred and fifty ere long; and call so many of French and American + into service. We have had six thousand seamen formerly in this business, + the whole of whom we have been likely to lose. The consumption of rice is + growing fast in this country, and that of Carolina gaining ground on every + other kind. I am of opinion, the whole of the Carolina rice can be + consumed here. Its transportation employs two thousand five hundred + sailors, almost all of them English at present; the rice being deposited + at Cowes, and brought from thence here. It would be dangerous to confine + this transportation to French and American bottoms, the ensuing year, + because they will be much engrossed by the transportation of wheat and + flour hither, and the crop of rice might lie on hand for want of vessels; + but I see no objections to the extension of our principle to this article + also, beginning with the year 1790. However, before there is a necessity + of deciding on this, I hope to be able to consult our new government in + person, as I have asked of Congress a leave of absence for six months, + that is to say, from April to November next. It is necessary for me to pay + a short visit to my native country, first, to reconduct my family thither, + and place them in the hands of their friends, and secondly, to place my + private affairs under certain arrangements. When I left my own house, I + expected to be absent but five months, and I have been led by events to an + absence of five years. I shall hope, therefore, for the pleasure of + personal conferences with your Excellency, on the subject of this letter, + and others interesting to our country; of getting my own ideas set to + rights by a communication of yours, and of taking again the tone of + sentiment of my own country, which we lose in some degree, after a certain + absence. You know, doubtless, of the death of the Marquis de Chastellux. + The Marquis de la Fayette is out of favor with the court, but high in + favor with the nation. I once feared for his personal liberty, but I hope + he is on safe ground at present. + </p> + <p> + On the subject of the whale-fishery, I enclose you some observations I + drew up for the ministry here, in order to obtain a correction of their <i>ArrĂŞt</i> + of September last, whereby they had involved our oils with the English, in + a general exclusion from their ports. They will accordingly correct this, + so that our oils will participate with theirs, in the monopoly of their + markets. There are several things incidentally introduced, which do not + seem pertinent to the general question: they were rendered necessary by + particular circumstances, the explanation of which would add to a letter + already too long. I will trespass no further, than to assure you of the + sentiments of sincere attachment and respect, with which I have the honor + to be your Excellency’s most obedient, humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + P. S. The observations enclosed, though printed, have been put into + confidential hands only. T. J. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0174" id="link2H_4_0174"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLXXIII.—TO JOHN ADAMS, December 5, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN ADAMS. + </p> + <p> + Paris, December 5, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I had the pleasure of writing to you on the 2nd of August, and of adding a + Postscript of August the 6th. + </p> + <p> + You recollect well the <i>ArrĂŞt</i> of December the 29th, 1787, in favor + of our commerce, and which, among other things, gave free admission to our + whale-oil, under a duty of about two louis a ton. In consequence of the + English treaty, their oils flowed in, and over-stocked the market. The + light duty they were liable to under the treaty, still lessened by false + estimates and aided by the high premiums of the British government, + enabled them to undersell the French and American oils. This produced an + outcry of the Dunkirk fishery. It was proposed to exclude all European + oils, which would not infringe the British treaty. I could not but + encourage this idea, because it would give to the French and American + fisheries a monopoly of the French market. The <i>ArrĂŞt</i> was so drawn + up; but, in the very moment of passing it, they struck out the word + European, so that our oils became involved. This, I believe, was the + effect of a single person in the ministry. As soon as it was known to me, + I wrote to Monsieur de Montmorin, and had conferences with him and the + other ministers. I found it necessary to give them information on the + subject of the whale-fishery, of which they knew little but from the + partial information of their Dunkirk adventurers. I therefore wrote the + observations (of which I enclose you a printed copy), had them printed to + entice them to read them, and particularly developed the expense at which + they are carrying on that fishery, and at which they must continue it, if + they do continue it. This part was more particularly intended for Mr. + Necker, who was quite a stranger to the subject, who has principles of + economy, and will enter into calculations. Other subjects are incidentally + introduced; though little connected with the main question, they had been + called for by other circumstances. An immediate order was given for the + present admission of our oils, till they could form an <i>ArrĂŞt</i>; and, + at a conference, the draught of an <i>ArrĂŞt</i> was communicated to me, + which re-established that of December the 29th. They expressed fears, + that, under cover of our name, the Nova Scotia oils would be introduced; + and a blank was left in the draught for the means of preventing that. They + have since proposed, that the certificate of their consul shall accompany + the oils, to authorize their admission, and this is what they will + probably adopt. It was observed, that if our States would prohibit all + foreign oils from being imported into them, it would be a great safeguard, + and an encouragement to them to continue the admission. Still there + remains an expression in the <i>ArrĂŞt</i>, that it is provisory only. + However, we must be contented with it as it is; my hope being, that the + legislature will be transferred to the National Assembly, in whose hands + it will be more stable, and with whom it will be more difficult to obtain + a repeal, should the ministry hereafter desire it. If they could succeed + in drawing over as many of our Nantucket men as would supply their demands + of oil, we might then fear an exclusion; but the present <i>ArrĂŞt</i>, as + soon as it shall be passed, will, I hope, place us in safety till that + event, and that event may never happen. I have entered into all these + details, that you may be enabled to quiet the alarm which must have been + raised by the <i>ArrĂŞt</i> of September the 28th, and assure the + adventurers that they may pursue their enterprises as safely as if that + had never been passed, and more profitably, because we participate now of + a monopolized, instead of an open market. The enclosed observations, + though printed, have only been given to the ministers, and one or two + other confidential persons. You will see that they contain matter which + should be kept from the English, and will therefore trust them to the + perusal only of such persons as you can confide in. We are greatly + indebted to the Marquis de la Fayette for his aid on this, as on every + other occasion. He has paid the closest attention to it, and combated for + us with the zeal of a native. + </p> + <p> + The necessity of reconducting my family to America, and of placing my + affairs there under permanent arrangements, has obliged me to ask of + Congress a six months’ absence, to wit, from April to November next. I + hope, therefore, to have the pleasure of seeing you there, and + particularly, that it will be at New York that I shall find you. Be so + good as to present my sincere esteem to Mrs. Adams, and believe me to be, + with very affectionate attachment, Dear Sir, your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0175" id="link2H_4_0175"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLXXIV.—TO MR. SHORT, December 8, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO MR. SHORT. + </p> + <p> + Paris, December 8, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + My last to you was of the 21st of November, addressed to Milan, <i>poste + restante</i>, according to the desire expressed through Mrs. Paradise. I + have lately received yours of the 19th of November, and sincerely + felicitate you on your recovery. I wish you may have suffered this to be + sufficiently established before you set out on your journey. The present + letter will probably reach you amidst the classical enjoyments of Rome. I + feel myself kindle at the reflection, to make that journey; but + circumstances will oblige me to postpone it at least. We are here under a + most extraordinary degree of cold. The thermometer has been ten degrees of + Reaumur below freezing: this is eight degrees of Fahrenheit above zero, + and was the degree of cold here in the year 1740. The long continuance of + this severity, and the snow now on the ground, give physical + prognostications of a hard winter. You will be in a privileged climate, + and will have had an enviable escape from this. The <i>Notables</i> are + not yet separated, nor is their treasonable vote against the people yet + consolidated; but it will be. The parliament have taken up the subject, + and passed a very laudable vote in opposition. They have made it the + occasion of giving sketches of what should be a bill of rights. Perhaps + this opposition of authority may give the court an option between the two. + Stocks are rising slowly, but steadily. The loan of 1784 is at thirteen + loss; the <i>caisse d’escompte</i>, four thousand and seventy-five. The + Count de Bryenne has retired, and M. de Puysegur succeeded to his place. + Madame de Chambonois (sister of M. de Langear) is dead of the small-pox. + Pio is likely to receive a good appointment in his own country, which will + take him from us. Corn is likely to become extremely scarce in France, + Spain, and England. This country has offered a premium of forty sous the + quintal on flour of the United States, and thirty sous the quintal on our + wheat, to be brought here between February and June. + </p> + <p> + General Washington writes me, that industry and economy begin to take + place of that idleness and extravagance which had succeeded the close of + the war. The Potomac canal is in great forwardness. J. M. writes me word, + that Mr. Jay and General Knox are talked of in the Middle States for + Vice-Presidents, but he queries whether both will not prefer their present + births. It seems agreed, that some emendations will be made to the new + constitution. All are willing to add a bill of rights; but they fear the + power of internal taxation will be abridged. The friends of the new + government will oppose the method of amendment by a federal convention, + which would subject the whole instrument to change, and they will support + the other method, which admits Congress, by a vote of two thirds, to + submit specific changes to the Assemblies, three fourths of whom must + concur to establish them. + </p> + <p> + The enclosed letter is from Pallegrino, one of the Italian laborers + established in our neighborhood. I fancy it contains one for his father. I + have supposed it would not be unpleasant to you to have the delivery of + it, as it may give you a good opportunity of conferring with one of that + class as much as you please. I obey at the same time my own wishes to + oblige the writer. Mazzei is at this time ill, but not in danger. I am + impatient to receive further letters from you, which may assure me of the + solidity of your recovery, being, with great anxiety for your health and + happiness, Dear Sir, your affectionate friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [The annexed is here inserted in the Author’s MS. To whom + addressed, does not appear.] +</pre> + <p> + The Minister Plenipotentiary for the United States of America finds + himself under the necessity of declining to authenticate writings destined + to be sent to the United States, for this main reason, that such + authentication is not legal evidence there. After a reason so sufficient, + it seems superfluous to add, that, were his authentication admissible in + the courts of the United States, he could never give it to any seal or + signature, which had not been put in his presence; that he could never + certify a copy, unless both that and the original were in a hand-writing + legible to him, and had been compared together by him, word by word: that + so numerous are the writings presented, that their authentication alone + would occupy the greater part of his time, and, withdrawing him from his + proper duties, would change the nature of his office to that of a notary. + He observes to those who do him the honor of addressing themselves to him + on this subject, that the laws for the authentication of foreign writings + are not the same through all the United States, some requiring an + authentication under the seal of the <i>PrevotĂ©</i> of a city, and others + admitting that of a Notary: but that writings authenticated in both these + manners, will, under the one or the other, be admitted in most, if not all + of the United States. It would seem advisable, then, to furnish them with + this double authentication. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0176" id="link2H_4_0176"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLXXV.—TO DOCTOR GILMER, December 16, 1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO DOCTOR GILMER. + </p> + <p> + Paife, December 16, 1788. + </p> + <p> + Dear Doctor, + </p> + <p> + Your last letter of December the 23rd was unlucky, like the former one, in + arriving while I was absent on a call of public business in Holland. I was + discouraged from answering the law part of it on my return, because I + foresaw such a length of time between the date of that and receipt of the + answer, as would give it the air of a prescription after the death of the + patient. I hope the whole affair is settled, and that you are established + in good titles to all the lands. Still, however, being on the subject, I + cannot help adding a word, in answer to the objection which you say is + raised on the words ‘the estate,’ instead of ‘my estate.’ It has long been + confessed in the courts, that the first decision, that a devise of lands + to a person without words of inheritance, should carry an estate for life + only, was an absurd decision, founded on feudal principles, after feudal + ideas had long been lost by the unlettered writers of their own wills: and + it has often been said, that were the matter to begin again, it should be + decided that such a devise should carry a fee simple, as every body is + sensible testators intend, by these expressions. The courts, therefore, + circumscribe the authority of this chain of decisions, all hanging on the + first link, as much as possible; and they avail themselves of every + possible circumstance which may render any new case unlike the old one, + and authorize them to conform their judgments to common sense, and the + will of the testator. Hence they decide, that in a devise of ‘my estate at + M.’ to such a one, without words of inheritance, the word estate is + descriptive of the duration of the interest bequeathed, as well as its + locality. From the same desire of getting back into the paths of common + sense, they would not suffer the particle ‘the’ instead of ‘my’, to make a + difference. ‘My estate at M.’ means not only my lands at M., but my fee + simple in them. ‘The estate at M.’ means not only ‘the lands the testator + holds at M., but the fee simple he has in them.’ Another objection will be + made, perhaps, viz. that the testator devises in the same clause his + estate called Marrow-bone, his tract called Horse-pasture, and his tract + called Poison-field; that it is probable he intended to give the same + interest in all; and as it is confessed that the word tract conveys but an + estate for life, we must conclude that the word estate was meant to convey + the same. I should reverse the argument, and say, as it confessed the word + estate, conveys an estate in fee simple, we must conclude the word tract + was meant to convey the same; that this conclusion coincides with the + wishes of the courts, as bringing them back to what is right and + consentaneous to the intention of the testator, as furnishing them a + circumstance to distinguish the case from the original one, and withdraw + it from its authority; whereas, the contrary conclusion tends to lead them + further from the meaning of testators, and to fix them in error. + </p> + <p> + But I perceive that my wishes to see the weight of no objection where you + are interested, are leading me to write an argument, where I had promised + I would say only a word. I will, therefore, talk the subject over with you + at Monticello, or Pen-park. I have asked of Congress a leave of five or + six months’ absence next year, that I may carry my daughters home, and + assist in the arrangement of my affairs. I shall pass two of the months at + Monticello, that is to say, either June and July, or July and August, + according to the time I may sail, which I hope will be in April: and then + go on to New York and Boston, from whence I shall embark again for Europe, + so as to get here before the winter sets in. I look forward with great + fondness to the moment, when I can again see my own country and my own + neighbors, and endeavor to anticipate as little as possible the pain of + another separation from them. I hope I shall find you all under the + peaceable establishment of the new constitution, which, as far as I can + judge from public papers, seems to have become necessary for the happiness + of our country. I thank you for your kind inquiries about my wrist. I + followed advice with it, till I saw, visibly, that the joint had never + been replaced, and that it was absurd to expect that cataplasms and waters + would reduce dislocated bones. From that moment I have done nothing. I + have for ever lost the use of my hand, except that I can write: and a + withered hand and swelled and crooked fingers, still remaining + twenty-seven months after the accident, make me fear I do not yet know the + worst of it. But this, too, we will talk over at Monticello, and endeavor + that it be the only pain to which our attention may be recalled. Adieu, my + dear friend. Kiss and bless every body for me, Mrs. Gilmer especially. + Assure her and yourself of the sincere and constant attachment of, Dear + Doctor, your affectionate friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0177" id="link2H_4_0177"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLXXVI.—TO THOMAS PAINE, December 23,1788 + </h2> + <p> + TO THOMAS PAINE. + </p> + <p> + Paris, December 23,1788. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + It is true that I received very long ago your favors of September the 9th + and 15th, and that I have been in daily intention of answering them, fully + and confidentially; but you know such a correspondence between you and me + cannot pass through the post, nor even by the couriers of ambassadors. The + French packet-boats being discontinued, I am now obliged to watch + opportunities by Americans going to London, to write my letters to + America. Hence it has happened, that these, the sole opportunities by + which I can write to you without fear, have been lost, by the multitude of + American letters I had to write. I now determine, without foreseeing any + such conveyance, to begin my letter to you, so that when a conveyance + occurs, I shall only have to add recent occurrences. Notwithstanding the + interval of my answer which has taken place, I must beg a continuance of + your correspondence; because I have great confidence in your + communications, and since Mr. Adams’s departure, I am in need of authentic + information from that country. + </p> + <p> + I will begin with the subject of your bridge, in which I feel myself + interested; and it is with great pleasure that I learn, by your favor of + the 16th, that the execution of the arch of experiment exceeds your + expectations. In your former letter you mention, that, instead of + arranging your tubes and bolts as ordinates to the cord of the arch, you + had reverted to your first idea, of arranging them in the direction of + radii. I am sure it will gain both in beauty and strength. It is true that + the divergence of these radii recurs as a difficulty, in getting the rails + on upon the bolts; but I thought this fully removed by the answer you + first gave me, when I suggested that difficulty, to wit, that you should + place the rails first, and drive the bolts through them, and not, as I had + imagined, place the bolts first, and put the rails on them. I must doubt + whether what you now suggest will be as good as your first idea; to wit, + to have every rail split into two pieces longitudinally, so that there + shall be but the halves of the holes in each, and then to clamp the two + halves together. The solidity of this method cannot be equal to that of + the solid rail, and it increases the suspicious parts of the whole + machine, which, in a first experiment, ought to be rendered as few as + possible. But of all this the practical iron men are much better judges + than we theorists. You hesitate between the catenary and portion of a + circle. I have lately received from Italy a treatise on the equilibrium of + arches, by the Abbe Mascheroni. It appears to be a very scientifical work. + I have not yet had time to engage in it; but I find that the conclusions + of his demonstrations are, that every part of the catenary is in perfect + equilibrium. It is a great point, then, in a new experiment, to adopt the + sole arch, where the pressure will be equally borne by every point of it. + If any one point is pushed with accumulated pressure, it will introduce a + danger, foreign to the essential part of the plan. The difficulty you + suggest, is, that the rails being all in catenaries, the tubes must be of + different lengths, as these approach nearer or recede farther from each + other, and therefore you recur to the portions of concentric circles, + which are equidistant in all their parts. But I would rather propose, that + you make your middle rail an exact catenary, and the interior and exterior + rails parallels to that. It is true, they will not be exact catenaries, + but they will depart very little from it; much less than portions of + circles will. Nothing has been done here on the subject since you went + away. There is an Abbe D’Arnal at Nismes, who had obtained an exclusive + privilege for navigating the rivers of this country by the aid of the + steam-engine. This interests Mr. Rumsey, who had hoped the same thing. + D’Arnal’s privilege was published in a paper of the 10th of November. + Probably, therefore, his application for it was previous to the delivery + of Mr. Rumsey’s papers to the secretary of the Academy of Sciences, which + was in the latter part of the month of August. However, D’Arnal is not a + formidable competitor. He is not in circumstances to make any use himself + of his privilege, and he has so illy succeeded with a steam-mill he + erected at Nismes, that he is not likely to engage others to venture in + his projects. To say another word of the catenarian arch, without caring + about mathematical demonstrations, its nature proves it to be in + equilibrio in every point. It is the arch formed by a string fixed at both + ends, and swaying loose in all the intermediate points. Thus at liberty, + they must finally take that position, wherein every one will be equally + pressed; for if any one was more pressed than the neighboring point, it + would give way, from the flexibility of the matter of the string. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + I am, with sentiments of sincere esteem and attachment, Dear Sir, your + friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0178" id="link2H_4_0178"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLXXVII.—TO JOHN JAY, January 11, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, January 11, 1789. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + My last letters were of the 14th, 19th, and 29th of November, by the way + of London. The present will go the same way, through a private channel. + </p> + <p> + All military operations in Europe seem to have been stopped, by the + excessive severity of the weather. In this country, it is unparalleled in + so early a part of the winter, and in duration, having continued since the + middle of November, during which time it has been as low as nine degrees + below nought, that is to say, forty degrees below freezing, by + Fahrenheit’s thermometer; and it has increased the difficulties of the + administration here. They had, before, to struggle with the want of money, + and want of bread for the people, and now, the want of fuel for them, and + want of employment. The siege of Oczakow is still continued, the soldiers + sheltering themselves in the Russian manner, in subterraneous barracks; + and the Captain Pacha has retired with his fleet. The death of the King of + Spain has contributed, with the insanity of the English King, to render + problematical the form which the affairs of Europe will ultimately take. + Some think a peace possible between the Turks and two Empires, with the + cession of Crimea to the former, as less important to Russia than Poland, + which she is in danger of losing. In this case, the two Empires might + attack the King of Prussia, and the scene of war be only changed. He is + certainly uneasy at the accident happened to his principal ally. There + seems no doubt, but that the Prince of Wales will be sole regent; but it + is also supposed, they will not give him the whole executive power, and + particularly, that of declaring war without the consent of the parliament. + Should his personal dispositions, therefore, and that of a new ministry, + be the same which the King had, of co-operating with Prussia, yet the + latter cannot count on their effect. Probably, the parliament will not + consent to war, so that I think we may consider the two great powers of + France and England as absolutely at rest for some time. + </p> + <p> + As the character of the Prince of Wales is becoming interesting, I have + endeavored to learn what it truly is. This is less difficult in his case, + than in that of other persons of his rank, because he has taken no pains + to hide himself from the world. The information I most rely on, is from a + person here, with whom I am intimate, who divides his time between Paris + and London, an Englishman by birth, of truth, sagacity, and science. He is + of a circle, when in London, which has had good opportunities of knowing + the Prince; but he has also, himself, had special occasions of verifying + their information, by his own personal observation. He happened, when last + in London, to be invited to a dinner of three persons. The Prince came by + chance, and made the fourth. He ate half a leg of mutton; did not taste of + small dishes, because small; drank Champagne and Burgundy as small beer + during dinner, and Bordeaux after dinner, as the rest of the company. Upon + the whole, he ate as much as the other three, and drank about two bottles + of wine without seeming to feel it. My informant sat next him, and being + till then unknown to the Prince, personally, (though not by character), + and lately from France, the Prince confined his conversation almost + entirely to him. Observing to the Prince that he spoke French without the + least foreign accent, the Prince told him, that when very young, his + father had put only French servants about him, and that it was to that + circumstance he owed his pronunciation. He led him from this to give an + account of his education, the total of which was the learning a little + Latin. He has not a single element of Mathematics, of Natural or Moral + Philosophy, or of any other science on earth, nor has the society he has + kept been such as to supply the void of education. It has been that of the + lowest, the most illiterate and profligate persons of the kingdom, without + choice of rank or mind, and with whom the subjects of conversation are + only horses, drinking-matches, bawdy houses, and in terms the most vulgar. + The young nobility, who begin by associating with him, soon leave him, + disgusted with the insupportable profligacy of his society; and Mr. Fox, + who has been supposed his favorite, and not over nice in the choice of + company, would never keep his company habitually. In fact, he never + associated with a man of sense. He has not a single idea of justice, + morality, religion, or of the rights of men, or any anxiety for the + opinion of the world. He carries that indifference for fame so far, that + he would probably not be hurt were he to lose his throne, provided he + could be assured of having always meat, drink, horses, and women. In the + article of women, nevertheless, he is become more correct, since his + connection with Mrs. Fitzherbert, who is an honest and worthy woman: he is + even less crapulous than he was. He had a fine person, but it is becoming + coarse. He possesses good native common sense; is affable, polite, and + very good humored. Saying to my informant on another occasion, ‘your + friend, such a one, dined with me yesterday, and I made him damned drunk;’ + he replied, ‘I am sorry for it; I had heard that your royal highness had + left off drinking;’ the Prince laughed, tapped him on the shoulder very + good-naturedly, without saying a word, or ever after showing any + displeasure. The Duke of York, who was for some time cried up as the + prodigy of the family, is as profligate, and of less understanding. To + these particular traits, from a man of sense and truth, it would be + superfluous to add the general terms of praise or blame, in which he is + spoken of by other persons, in whose impartiality and penetration, I have + less confidence. A sample is better than a description. For the peace of + Europe, it is best that the King should give such gleamings of recovery, + as would prevent the regent or his ministry from thinking themselves firm, + and yet, that he should not recover. This country advances with a steady + pace towards the establishment of a constitution, whereby the people will + resume the great mass of those powers, so fatally lodged in the hands of + the King. During the session of the <i>Notables</i>, and after their votes + against the rights of the people, the Parliament of Paris took up the + subject, and passed a vote in opposition to theirs, (which I send you.) + This was not their genuine sentiment: it was a manoeuvre of the young + members, who are truly well disposed, taking advantage of the accidental + absence of many old members, and bringing others over by the clause, + which, while it admits the negative of the States General in legislation, + reserves still to the parliament the right of enregistering, that is to + say, another negative. The <i>Notables</i> persevered in their opinion. + The Princes of the blood (Monsieur and the Duke d’Orleans excepted) + presented and published a memoire, threatening a scission. The parliament + were proposing to approve of that memoire (by way of rescinding their + former vote), and were prevented from it by the threat of a young member, + to impeach (<i>denoncer</i>) the memoire and the Princes who signed it. + The vote of the <i>Notables</i>, therefore, remaining balanced by that of + the parliament, the voice of the nation becoming loud and general for the + rights of the <i>Tiers-Etat</i>, a strong probability that if they were + not allowed one half the representation, they would send up their members + with express instructions to agree to no tax and to no adoption of the + public debts, and the court really wishing to give them a moiety of the + representation, this was decided on ultimately. You are not to suppose + that these dispositions of the court proceed from any love of the people, + or justice towards their rights. Courts love the people always, as wolves + do the sheep. The fact is this. The court wants money. From the <i>Tiers-Etat</i> + they cannot get it, because they are already squeezed to the last drop. + The clergy and the nobles, by their privileges and their influence, have + hitherto screened their property, in a great degree, from public + contribution. That half of the orange, then, remains yet to be squeezed, + and for this operation there is no agent powerful enough, but the people. + They are, therefore, brought forward as the favorites of the court, and + will be supported by them. The moment of crisis will be the meeting of the + States; because their first act will be, to decide whether they shall vote + by persons or by orders. The clergy will leave nothing unattempted to + obtain the latter; for they see that the spirit of reformation will not + confine itself to the political, but will extend to the ecclesiastical + establishment also. With respect to the nobles, the younger members are + generally for the people, and the middle aged are daily coming over to the + same side: so that by the time the States meet, we may hope there will be + a majority of that body, also, in favor of the people, and consequently + for voting by persons, and not by orders. + </p> + <p> + You will perceive, by the report of Mr. Necker (in the gazette of France), + 1. a renewal of the renunciation of the power of imposing a new tax by the + King, and a like renunciation of the power of continuing any old one; 2. + an acknowledgment that the States are to appropriate the public monies, + which will go to the binding the court to a civil list; 3. a consent to + the periodical meeting of the States; 4. to consider of the restrictions + of which <i>lettres de cachet</i> are susceptible; 5. the degree of + liberty to be given to the press; 6. a bill of rights; and 7. there is a + passage which looks towards the responsibility of ministers. Nothing is + said of communicating to them a share in the legislation. The ministry, + perhaps, may be unwilling to part with this, but it will be insisted on in + the States. The letters of convocation will not appear till towards the + latter end of the month: neither time nor place are yet declared, but + Versailles is talked of, and we may well presume that some time in April + will be fixed on. In the mean time, Mr. Necker gets money to keep the + machine in motion. Their funds rose slowly, but steadily, till within + these few days, when there was a small check. However, they stand very + well, and will rise. The <i>caisse d’escompte</i> lent the government + twenty-five millions, two days ago. The navy of this country sustained a + heavy loss lately, by the death of the Bailli de Suffrein. He was + appointed Generalissimo of the Atlantic, when war was hourly expected with + England, and is certainly the officer on whom the nation would have + reposed its principal hopes, in such a case. We just now hear of the death + of the Speaker of the House of Commons, before the nomination of a regent, + which adds a new embarrassment to the re-establishment of government in + England. Since writing mine of November the 29th, yours of the 23rd of + September has come to hand. As the General of the Mathurins was to be + employed in the final redemption of our captives, I thought that their + previous support had better be put into his hands, and conducted by + himself in such a way as not to counterwork his plan of redemption, + whenever we can enable him to begin on it. I gave him full powers as to + the amount and manner of subsisting them. He has undertaken it, informing + me, at the same time, that it will be on a very low scale, to avoid + suspicion of its coming from the public. He spoke of but three sous a day + per man, as being sufficient for their physical necessaries, more than + which, he thinks it not advisable to give. I have no definitive answer yet + from our bankers, whether we may count on the whole million last agreed to + be borrowed, but I have no doubt of it, from other information, though I + have not their formal affirmative. The gazettes of Leyden and France to + this date, accompany this. I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the + most perfect esteem and respect, Sir, your most obedient and most humble + servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0179" id="link2H_4_0179"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLXXVIII.—TO JAMES MADISON, January 12, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO JAMES MADISON. + </p> + <p> + Paris, January 12, 1789. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + My last to you was of the 18th of November; since which, I have received + yours of the 21st of September, and October the 8th, with the pamphlet on + the Mohicon language, for which, receive my thanks. I endeavor to collect + all the vocabularies I can of the American Indians, as of those of Asia, + persuaded, that if they ever had a common parentage, it will appear in + their languages. + </p> + <p> + I was pleased to see the vote of Congress, of September the 16th, on the + subject of the Mississippi, as I had before seen, with great uneasiness, + the pursuit of other principles, which I could never reconcile to my own + ideas of probity or wisdom, and from which, and my knowledge of the + character of our western settlers, I saw that the loss of that country was + a necessary consequence. I wish this return to true policy may be in time + to prevent evil. There has been a little foundation for the reports and + fears relative to the Marquis de la Fayette. He has, from the beginning, + taken openly part with those who demand a constitution; and there was a + moment that we apprehended the Bastile: but they ventured on nothing more, + than to take from him a temporary service, on which he had been ordered; + and this, more to save appearances for their own authority, than any thing + else; for at the very time they pretended that they had put him into + disgrace, they were constantly conferring and communicating with him. + Since this, he has stood on safe ground, and is viewed as among the + foremost of the patriots. Every body here is trying their hand at forming + declarations of rights. As something of that kind is going on with you + also, I send you two specimens from hence. The one is by our friend of + whom I have just spoken. You will see that it contains the essential + principles of ours, accommodated as much as could be, to the actual state + of things here. The other is from a very sensible man, a pure theorist, of + the sect called the <i>Economists</i>, of which Turgot was considered as + the head. The former is adapted to the existing abuses, the latter goes to + those possible, as well as to those existing. + </p> + <p> + With respect to Doctor Spence, supposed to have been taken by the + Algerines, I think the report extremely improbable. O’Bryan, one of our + captives there, has constantly written to me, and given me information on + every subject he thought interesting. He could not have failed to know if + such a capture had been made, though before his time, nor to inform me of + it. I am under perpetual anxiety for our captives there. The money, + indeed, is not yet ready at Amsterdam; but when it shall be, there are no + orders from the board of treasury to the bankers, to furnish what may be + necessary for the redemption of the captives: and it is so long since + Congress approved the loan, that the orders of the treasury for the + application of the money would have come, if they had intended to send + any. I wrote to them early on the subject, and pointedly. I mentioned it + to Mr. Jay also, merely that he might suggest it to them. The payments to + the foreign officers will await the same formality. + </p> + <p> + I thank you for your attention to the case of Mrs. Burke. We have no news + of Doctor Franklin since July last, when he was very ill. Though the + silence of our letters on that subject is a proof that he is well, yet + there is an anxiety here among his friends. We have lately had three books + published, which are of great merit, in different lines. The one is in + seven volumes, octavo, by an Abbe Barthelemy, wherein he has collected + every subject of Grecian Literature, after a labor of thirty years. It is + called ‘Les Voyages d’Anacharsis.’ I have taken a copy for you, because + the whole impression was likely to be run off at once. The second is a + work on government, by the Marquis de Condorcet, two volumes, octavo. I + shall secure you a copy. The third are the works of the King of Prussia, + in sixteen volumes, octavo. These were a little garbled at Berlin, before + printed. The government lays its hands on all which come here, and change + some leaves. There is a genuine edition published at Basle, where even the + garblings of Berlin are re-established. I doubt the possibility of getting + a copy, so vigilant is the government as to this work. I shall obtain you + one, if it be possible. As I write all the public news to Mr. Jay, I will + not repeat it to you. I have just received the Flora Caroliniana of + Walter, a very learned and good work. I am, with very sincere esteem and + respect, Dear Sir, your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0180" id="link2H_4_0180"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLXXIX.—TO JOHN JAY, January 14, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + Paris, January 14, 1789. + </p> + <p> + In my letter of the 11th, I have said nothing of the <i>ArrĂŞt</i> + explanatory of that of September the 28th, on the subject of whale-oils, + which my letter of November the 19th gave you reason to expect. Though + this explanatory <i>ArrĂŞt</i> has been passed so long ago as the 7th of + December, it has not been possible for me to obtain an authentic copy of + it, till last night. I now enclose that to you, with a copy of a letter to + me from Mr. Necker, on the subject. The reception of our oils in the mean + time, is provided for by an intermediate order. You will observe, that in + the <i>ArrĂŞt</i> it is said to be passed ‘<i>provisoirement,</i>’ and that + Mr. Necker expressly holds up to us in his letter, a repeal, whenever the + national fishery supplies their wants. The <i>ArrĂŞt</i>, however, is not + limited in its duration, and we have several chances against its repeal. + It may be questioned, whether Mr. Necker thinks the fishery worth the + expense. It may be well questioned, whether, either with or without + encouragement, the nation, whose navigation is the least economical of all + in Europe, can ever succeed in the whale-fishery, which calls for the most + rigorous economy. It is hoped that a share in the legislation will pass + immediately into the hands of the States General, so as to be no longer in + the power of the <i>commis</i> of a bureau, or even of his minister, to + smuggle a law through, unquestioned; and we may even hope that the + national demand for this oil will increase faster than both their and our + fisheries together will supply. But in spite of all these hopes, if the + English should find means to cover their oils under our name, there will + be great danger of a repeal. It is essential, then, that our government + take effectual measures to prevent the English from obtaining genuine + sea-papers, that they enable their consuls in the ports of France (as soon + as they shall be named) to detect counterfeit papers, and that we convince + this government that we use our best endeavors, with good faith, as it is + clearly our interest to do; for the rivalship of the English is the only + one we have to fear. It had already begun to render our oils invendible in + the ports of France. You will observe that Mr. Necker renews the promise + of taking off the ten sous pour livre, at the end of the next year. + </p> + <p> + Oczakow is at length taken by assault. The assailants were fourteen + thousand, and the garrison twelve thousand, of whom seven thousand were + cut to pieces before they surrendered. The Russians lost three thousand + men. This is the Russian version, of which it is safe to believe no part, + but that Oczakow is taken. The Speaker of the English House of Commons, + having died suddenly, they have chosen Mr. Grenville, a young man of + twenty-seven years of age. This proves that. Mr. Pitt is firm with the + present parliament. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect esteem and + respect, Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0181" id="link2H_4_0181"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLXXX.—TO MADAME NECKER, January 24, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO MADAME NECKER. + </p> + <p> + Paris, January 24, 1789. + </p> + <p> + I have received, Madam, with a great deal of sensibility, the letter of + the 22nd instant, with which you were pleased to honor me on the claims of + Monsieur Klein against the United States; and immediately endeavored to + inform myself of their foundation, by an examination of the journals of + Congress. Congress consisting of many persons, can only speak by the organ + of their records. If they have any engagements, they are to be found + there. If not found there, they can never have existed. I proceeded to + this examination, with all the partialities which were naturally inspired + by the interest you are so good as to take in his behalf, the desire of + doing what will be agreeable to you, and a disposition to obtain for him + the justice which might be his due. I have extracted, literally, from + those journals, every thing I find in them on his subject, and I take the + liberty of enclosing you those extracts. From them, as well as from what I + recollect of the ordinary train of business about the years 1778 and 1779, + I presume the following to be very nearly the history of Monsieur Klein’s + case. + </p> + <p> + Congress were generally desirous of adding to their army during the war. + Among other methods attempted, it was usual for foreigners (multitudes of + whom went to ask command), when they found there was no vacancy, to + propose to raise troops themselves, on condition they should have + commissions to command them. I suppose that Messrs. Klein, Fearer, and + Kleinsmit (named in the resolution of Congress of 1778, and whom, from + their names, I conjecture to be Germans) offered to enlist a body of men + from among the German prisoners taken with General Burgoyne at Saratoga, + on condition that Fearer and Kleinsmit should be captains over them, and + Klein, lieutenant colonel. Three months seem to have been allowed them for + raising their corps. However, at the end of ten months it seems they had + engaged but twenty-four men, and that all of these, except five, had + deserted. Congress, therefore, put an end to the project, June the 21st, + 1779, (and not in July, 1780, as Monsieur Klein says) by informing him + they had no further use for his services, and giving him a year’s pay and + subsistence to bring him to Europe. He chose to stay there three and a + half longer, as he says, to solicit what was due to him. Nothing could + ever have been due to him, but pay and subsistence for the ten months he + was trying to enlist men, and the donation of a year’s pay and + subsistence; and it is not probable he would wait three years and a half + to receive these. I suppose he has staid, in hopes of finding some other + opening for employment. If these articles of pay and subsistence have not + been paid to him, he has the certificates of the paymaster and commissary + to prove it; because it was an invariable rule, when demands could not be + paid, to give the party a certificate, to establish the sum due to him. If + he has not such a certificate, it is a proof he has been paid. If he has + it, he can produce it, and in that case, I will undertake to represent his + claim to our government, and will answer for their justice. + </p> + <p> + It would be easy to correct several inaccuracies in the letter of Monsieur + Klein, such as that Congress engaged to give him a regiment; that he paid + the recruiting money out of his own pocket; that his soldiers had nothing + but bread and water; that Congress had promised him they would pay his + soldiers in specie, &c.; some of which are impossible, and others very + improbable; but these would be details too lengthy, Madam, for you to be + troubled with. Klein’s object is to be received at the hospital of + invalids. I presume he is not of the description of persons entitled to be + received there, and that his American commission and American grievances + are the only ground he has, whereon to raise a claim to reception. He has + therefore tried to make the most of them. Few think there is any + immorality in scandalizing governments or ministers; and M. Klein’s + distresses render this resource more innocent in him, than it is in most + others. + </p> + <p> + Your commands, Madam, to give what information I could, have drawn thus + much from me. I would not wish to weaken the hopes he so justly rests on + your, known goodness and benevolence. On the contrary, the weaker his + claims elsewhere, the stronger they will plead in your bosom to procure + him relief; and whatever may be done for him here, I repeat it, that if he + has any just demand against the United States, and will furnish me with + proofs of it, I will solicit it with zeal, and, I trust, with effect. To + procure him justice will be one gratification, and a great additional one + will be, that he has procured me the occasion of offering you my portion + of the general tribute so justly due, for all the good you have done, and + all you are perpetually endeavoring to do. Accept then, Madam, I pray you, + this homage from one, whose motives are pure truth and justice, when he + assures you of the sincerity of those sentiments of esteem and respect, + with which he has the honor to be, Madam, your most obedient and most + </p> + <p> + humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0182" id="link2H_4_0182"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLXXXI.—TO JOHN JAY, February 1, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, February 1, 1789. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + My last letters have been of the 11th, 14th, and 21st of January. The + present conveyance being through the post to Havre, from whence a vessel + is to sail for New York, I avail myself of it, principally to send you the + newspapers. That of Leyden of the 24th, contains a note of the <i>ChargĂ© + des Affaires</i> of France, at Warsaw, which is interesting. It shows a + concert between France and Russia; it is a prognostication that Russia + will interfere in the affairs of Poland, and if she does, it is most + probable that the King of Prussia must be drawn into the war. The + revolution which has taken place in Geneva, is a remarkable and late + event. With the loss of only two or three lives, and in the course of one + week, riots, begun at first on account of a rise in the price of bread, + were improved and pointed to a reformation of their constitution; and + their ancient constitution has been almost completely re-established. Nor + do I see any reason to doubt of the permanence of the re-establishment. + The King of England has shown such marks of returning reason, that the + regency bill was postponed in the House of Lords, on the 19th instant. It + seems now probable, there may be no change of the ministry, perhaps no + regent. We may be sure, however, that the present ministry make the most + of those favorable symptoms. There has been a riot in Brittany, begun on + account of the price of bread, but converted into a quarrel between the <i>Noblesse</i> + and <i>Tiers-Etat</i>. Some few lives were lost in it. All is quieted for + the present moment. In Burgundy and Franche Compte, the opposition of the + nobles to the views of government is very warm. Every where else, however, + the revolution is going on quietly and steadily, and the public mind + ripening so fast, that there is great reason to hope a good result from + the States General. Their numbers (about twelve hundred) give room to + fear, indeed, that they may be turbulent. Having never heard of Admiral + Paul Jones since the action, in which he took a part before Oczakow, I + began to be a little uneasy. But I have now received a letter from him, + dated at St. Petersburg, the 31 st of January, where he had just arrived, + at the desire of the Empress. He has hitherto commanded on the Black Sea. + He does not know whether he shall be employed there, or where, the ensuing + campaign. I have no other interesting intelligence, which would not lead + me into details, improper for the present mode of conveyance. After + observing, therefore, that the gazettes of France and Leyden, to the + present date, accompany this, I shall only add assurance of the sincere + esteem and respect, with which I have the honor to be, Dear Sir, your most + obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0183" id="link2H_4_0183"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLXXXII.—TO JOHN JAY, February 4, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, February 4, 1789. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + Your favor of November the 25th, by Gouverneur Morris, is duly received. I + must beg you to take the trouble of deciphering yourself what follows, and + to communicate it to nobody but the President, at least for the present. + </p> + <p> + We had before understood, through different channels, that the conduct of + the Count de Moustier was politically and morally offensive. It was + delicate for me to speak on the subject to the Count de Montmorin. The + invaluable mediation of our friend, the Marquis de la Fayette, was + therefore resorted to, and the subject explained, though not pressed. + Later intelligence showing the necessity of pressing it, it was yesterday + resumed, and represented through the same medium to the Count de + Montmorin, that recent information proved to us, that his minister’s + conduct had rendered him personally odious in America, and might even + influence the dispositions of the two nations; that his recall was become + a matter of mutual concern; that we had understood he was instructed to + remind the new government of their debt to this country, and that he was + in the purpose of doing it in very harsh terms; that this could not + increase their desire of hastening payment, and might wound their + affections: that, therefore, it was much to be desired that his discretion + should not be trusted to, as to the form in which the demand should be + made, but that the letter should be written here, and he instructed to add + nothing but his signature: nor was his private conduct omitted. The Count + de Montmorin was sensibly impressed. He very readily determined that the + letter should be formed here, but said that the recall was a more + difficult business: that as they had no particular fact to allege against + the Count de Moustier, they could not recall him from that ministry, + without giving him another, and there was no vacancy at present. However, + he would hazard his first thoughts on the subject, saving the right of + correcting them by further consideration. They were these: that there was + a loose expression in one of de Moustier’s letters, which might be + construed into a petition for leave of absence; that he would give him + permission to return to France; that it had been before decided, on the + request of the Marquis de la Luzerne, that Otto should go to him to + London; that they would send a person to America as <i>ChargĂ© des Affaires</i> + in place of Otto, and that if the President (General Washington) approved + of him, he should be afterwards made minister. He had cast his eye on + Colonel Ternant, and desired the Marquis to consult me, whether he would + be agreeable. At first I hesitated, recollecting to have heard Ternant + represented in America, as an hypochondriac, discontented man, and paused + for a moment between him and Barthelemy, at London, of whom I have heard a + great deal of good. However, I concluded it safer to take one whom we knew + and who knew us. The Marquis was decidedly of this opinion. Ternant will + see that his predecessor is recalled for unconciliatory deportment, and + that he will owe his own promotion to the approbation of the President. He + established a solid reputation in Europe, by his conduct when + Generalissimo of one of the United Provinces, during their late + disturbances; and it is generally thought, that if he had been put at the + head of the principal province, instead of the Rhingrave de Salm, he would + have saved that cause. Upon the whole, I believe you may expect that the + Count de Moustier will have an immediate leave of absence, which will soon + after become a recall in effect. I will try also to have the consuls + admonished as to the line of conduct they should observe. I shall have the + honor of writing you a general letter, within a few days. I have now that + of assuring you of the sentiments of sincere esteem and respect, with + which I am, Dear Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0184" id="link2H_4_0184"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLXXXIII.—TO WILLIAM SHORT, February 9,1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO WILLIAM SHORT. + </p> + <p> + Paris, February 9,1789. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I wrote you last on the 22nd of January, on which day I received yours of + December the 31st, and since that, the other of January the 14th. We have + now received news from America down to the middle of December. They had + then had no cold weather. All things relative to our new constitution were + going on well. Federal senators are; New Hampshire, President Langdon and + Bartlett. Massachusetts, Strong and Dalton. Connecticut, Dr. Johnson and + Ellsworth. New Jersey, Patterson and Ellmer. Pennsylvania, Robert Morris + and M’Clay. Delaware, Reed and Bassett. Virginia, Richard Henry Lee and + Grayson. Maryland, Charles Carroll, of Carrolton, and John Henry. All of + these are federalists, except those of Virginia; so that a majority of + federalists are secured in the Senate, and expected in the House of + Representives. General Washington will be President, and probably Mr. + Adams Vice-President. So that the constitution will be put under way by + those who will give it a fair trial. It does not seem probable that the + attempt of New York, to have another convention to make amendments, will + succeed, though Virginia concurs in it. It is tolerably certain that + Congress will propose amendments to the Assemblies, as even the friends of + the constitution are willing to make amendments; some from a conviction + they are necessary, others, from a spirit of conciliation. The addition of + a bill of rights will, probably, be the most essential change. A vast + majority of anti-federalists have got into the Assembly of Virginia, so + that Mr. Henry is omnipotent there. Mr. Madison was left out as a senator + by eight or nine votes; and Henry has so modeled the districts for + representatives, as to tack Orange to counties where himself has great + influence, that Madison may not be elected into the lower federal House, + which was the place he had wished to serve in, and not the Senate. Henry + pronounced a philippic against Madison in open Assembly, Madison being + then at Philadelphia. Mifflin is President of Pennsylvania, and Peters, + Speaker. Colonel Howard is Governor of Maryland. Beverly Randolph, + Governor of Virginia; (this last is said by a passenger only, and he seems + not very sure.) Colonel Humphreys is attacked in the papers for his French + airs, for bad poetry, bad prose, vanity, &c. It is said his dress, in + so gay a style, gives general disgust against him. I have received a + letter from him. He seems fixed with General Washington. Mayo’s bridge, at + Richmond, was completed, and carried away in a few weeks. While up, it was + so profitable that he had great offers for it. A turnpike is established + at Alexandria, and succeeds. Rhode Island has again refused to call a + convention. Spain has granted to Colonel Morgan, of New Jersey, a vast + tract of land on the western side of the Mississippi, with the monopoly of + the navigation of that river. He is inviting settlers, and they swarm to + him. Even the settlement of Kentucky is likely to be much weakened by + emigrations to Morgan’s grant. Warville has returned, charmed with our + country. He is going to carry his wife and children to settle there. + Gouverneur Morris has just arrived here; deputed, as is supposed, to + settle Robert Morris’s affairs, which continue still deranged. Doctor + Franklin was well when he left America, which was about the middle of + December. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + I send Mr. Rutledge two letters by this post. Be so good as to present him + my esteem, and to be assured yourself, of the sincere esteem and + attachment with which I am and shall ever be? Dear Sir, your affectionate + friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0185" id="link2H_4_0185"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLXXXIV.—TO M. DE VILLEDEUIL, February 10, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO M. DE VILLEDEUIL. + </p> + <p> + Paris, February 10, 1789. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I take the liberty of troubling your Excellency with the following case, + which I understand to be within your department. Mr. Jay, secretary for + Foreign Affairs, to the United States of America, having occasion to send + me despatches of great importance, and by a courier express, confided them + to a Mr. Nesbitt, who offered himself in that character. He has delivered + them safely: but, in the moment of delivering them, explained to me his + situation, which is as follows. He was established in commerce at + L’Orient, during the war. Losses by shipwreck, by capture, and by the + conclusion of the peace at a moment when he did not expect it, reduced him + to bankruptcy, and he returned to America, with the consent of his + creditors, to make the most of his affairs there. He has been employed in + this ever since, and now wishing to see his creditors, and to consult them + on their mutual interests, he availed himself of Mr. Jay’s demand for a + courier, to come under the safe conduct of that character to Paris, where + he flattered himself he might obtain that of your Excellency, for the + purpose of seeing his creditors, settling, and arranging with them. He + thinks a twelvemonth will be necessary for this. Understanding that it is + not unusual to grant safe conducts in such cases, and persuaded it will be + for the benefit of his creditors, I take the liberty of enclosing his + memoir to your Excellency, and of soliciting your favorable attention to + it, assured that it will not be denied him, if it be consistent with the + established usage; and if inadmissible, praying that your Excellency will + have the goodness to give me as early an answer as the other arduous + occupations in which you are engaged, will admit, in order that he may + know whether he may see his creditors, or must return without. I am + encouraged to trouble your Excellency with this application, by the + goodness with which you have been pleased to attend to our interests on + former occasions, and by the desire of availing myself of every occasion + of proffering to you the homage of those sentiments of attachment and + respect, with which I have the honor to be your Excellency’s most obedient + and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0186" id="link2H_4_0186"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLXXXV.—TO MR. CARNES, February 15,1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO MR. CARNES. + </p> + <p> + Paris, February 15,1789. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I am now to acknowledge the receipt of your favors of January the 23rd, + and February the 9th and 10th. Your departure for America so soon, puzzles + me as to the finishing the affair of Schweighaeuser and Dobree, in which I + could have reposed myself on you. It remains, that I ask you to recommend + some person who may be perfectly relied on, in that business. In fact, it + is probably the only one I shall have occasion to trouble them with before + my own departure for America, which I expect to take place in May; and I + fix my return to Paris, in December. While I ask your recommendation of a + person to finish Dobree’s business with fidelity, I must ask your secrecy + on the subject of that very business, so as not to name it at all, even to + the person you shall recommend. + </p> + <p> + With respect to the distressed American who needs one hundred and forty + livres to enable him to return to America, I have no authority to apply + any public monies to that purpose, and the calls of that nature are so + numerous, that I am obliged to refuse myself to them in my private + capacity. As to Captain Newell’s case, you are sensible, that being in the + channel of the laws of the land, to ask a special order from government, + would expose us, in reciprocity to like demands from them in America, to + which our laws would never permit us to accede. Speaking conscientiously, + we must say it is wrong in any government to interrupt the regular course + of justice. A minister has no right to intermeddle in a private suit, but + when the laws of the country have been palpably perverted to the prejudice + of his countryman. + </p> + <p> + When you shall be so kind as to recommend to me a correspondent in your + port during your absence, I will ask the favor of you also to give me some + idea of the time you expect to return. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor, after wishing you pleasant and prosperous voyages, to + assure you of the esteem and attachment, with which I am, Sir, your most + obedient, humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0187" id="link2H_4_0187"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLXXXVI.—TO DR. BANCROFT, March 2, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO DR. BANCROFT. + </p> + <p> + Paris, March 2, 1789 + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have just received a letter of January the 31st from Admiral Paul Jones, + at Petersburg, which charging me with the execution of some commissions, + and these requiring money, he tells me you will answer my drafts, to the + amount of four or five thousand livres, on his account. Be so good as to + inform me whether you will pay such drafts. + </p> + <p> + A Monsieur Foulloy, who has been connected with Deane, lately offered me + for sale two volumes of Deane’s letter books and account books, that he + had taken instead of money, which Deane owed him. I have purchased them on + public account. He tells me Deane has still six or eight volumes more, and + being to return soon to London, he will try to get them also, in order to + make us pay high for them. You are sensible of the impropriety of letting + such books get into hands which might make an unfriendly use of them. You + are sensible of the immorality of an ex-minister’s selling his secrets for + money and, consequently, that there can be no immorality in tempting him + with money to part with them; so that they may be restored to that + government to whom they properly belong. Your former acquaintance with + Deane may, perhaps, put it in your power to render our country the service + of recovering those books. It would not do to propose it to him as for + Congress. What other way would best bring it about, you know best. I + suppose his distresses and his crapulous habits will not render him + difficult on this head. On the supposition that there are six or eight + volumes, I think you might venture as far as fifty guineas, and + proportionably for fewer. I will answer your draft to this amount and + purpose, or you may retain it out of any monies you may propose to pay me + for admiral Jones. There is no time to lose in this negotiation, as, + should Foulloy arrive there before it is closed, he will spoil the + bargain. If you should be able to recover these books, I would ask the + favor of you to send them to me by the Diligence, that I may carry them + back with me to America. I make no apology for giving you this trouble. It + is for our common country, and common interest. + </p> + <p> + I am, with sincere and great esteem and attachment, Dear Sir, your most + obedient, humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0188" id="link2H_4_0188"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLXXXVII.—TO M. DE MALESHERBES, March 11, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO M. DE MALESHERBES. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + Paris, March 11, 1789. + </p> + <p> + Your zeal to promote the general good of mankind, by an interchange of + useful things, and particularly in the line of agriculture, and the weight + which your rank and station would give to your interposition, induce me to + ask it, for the purpose of obtaining one of the species of rice which + grows in Cochin-China on high lands, and which needs no other watering + than the ordinary rains. The sun and soil of Carolina are sufficiently + powerful to insure the success of this plant, and Monsieur de Poivre gives + such an account of its quality, as might induce the Carolinians to + introduce it instead of the kind they now possess, which, requiring the + whole country to be laid under water during a certain season of the year, + sweeps off numbers of the inhabitants annually, with pestilential fevers. + If you would be so good as to interest yourself in the procuring for me + some seeds of the dry rice of Cochin-China, you would render the most + precious service to my countrymen, on whose behalf I take the liberty of + asking your interposition: very happy, at the same time, to have found + such an occasion of repeating to you the homage of those sentiments of + respect and esteem, with which I have the honor to be, Sir, your most + obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0189" id="link2H_4_0189"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLXXXVIII.—TO JOHN JAY, March 12, 1789 + </h2> + <h3> + TO JOHN JAY. + </h3> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + Paris, March 12, 1789. + </p> + <p> + I had the honor of addressing you, on the 1st instant, through the post. I + write the present, uncertain whether Mr. Nesbitt, the bearer of your last, + will be the bearer of this, or whether it may not have to wait some other + private occasion. They have reestablished their packet-boats here, indeed; + but they are to go from Bordeaux, which, being between four and five + hundred miles from hence, is too far to send a courier with any letters + but on the most extraordinary occasions and without a courier, they must + pass through the post-office. I shall, therefore, not make use of this + mode of conveyance, but prefer sending my letters by a private hand by the + way of London. The uncertainty of finding private conveyances to London, + is the principal objection to this. + </p> + <p> + On the receipt of your letter, advising me to purchase the two volumes of + Deane’s letters and accounts, I wrote to the person who had them, and + after some offers and refusals, he let me have them for twenty-five louis, + instead of twenty louis asked at first. He told me that Deane had still + six or eight volumes more, and that when he should return to London he + would try to get them, in order to make himself whole for the money he had + lent Deane. As I knew he would endeavor to make us pay dear for them, and + it appeared to be your opinion, and that of the members you had consulted, + that it was an object worthy attention, I wrote immediately to a friend in + London to endeavor to purchase them from Deane himself, whose distresses + and crapulous habits will probably render him more easy to deal with. I + authorized him to go as far as fifty guineas. I have as yet no answer from + him. I enclose you a letter which I wrote last month to our bankers in + Holland. As it will itself explain the cause of its being written, I shall + not repeat its substance here. In answer to my proposition, to pay bills + for the medals and the redemption of our captives, they quote a resolution + of Congress (which, however, I do not find in the printed journals), + appropriating the loans of 1787 and 1788 to the payment of interest on the + Dutch loans till 1790, inclusive, and the residue to salaries and + contingencies in Europe, and they argue, that, according to this, they are + not to pay any thing in Europe till they shall first have enough to pay + all the interest which will become due to the end of the year 1790; and + that it is out of personal regard, that they relax from this so far as to + pay diplomatic salaries. So that here is a clear declaration they will + answer no other demands, till they have in hand money enough for all the + interest to the end of the year 1790. It is but a twelvemonth since I have + had occasion to pay attention to the proceedings of those gentlemen; but + during that time I have observed, that as soon as a sum of interest is + becoming due, they are able to borrow just that, and no more; or at least + only so much more as may pay our salaries, and keep us quiet. Were they + not to borrow for the interest, the failure to pay that would sink the + value of the capital, of which they are considerable sharers. So far their + interests and ours concur. But there, perhaps, they may separate. I think + it possible they may choose to support our credit to a certain point, and + let it go no further, but at their will; to keep it so poised, as that it + may be at their mercy. By this, they will be sure to keep us in their own + hands. They write word to the treasury, that in order to raise money for + the February interest, they were obliged to agree with the subscribers, + that Congress should open no other loan at Amsterdam this year, till this + one be filled up, and that this shall not be filled but by the present + subscribers, and they not obliged to fill it. This is delivering us, bound + hand and foot, to the subscribers, that is, to themselves. Finding that + they would not raise money for any other purposes, without being pushed, I + wrote the letter I enclose you. They answer, as I have stated, by refusing + to pay, alleging the appropriation of Congress. I have written again to + press them further, and to propose to them the payment of thirty thousand + florins only, for the case of our captives, as I am in hopes this may do. + In the close of my letter to them, you will observe I refer them, as to + the article of foreign officers, to the board of treasury. I had, in + truth, received the printed journals a few days before, but had not yet + had time to read them carefully, and, particularly, had not then noted the + vote of Congress of August the 20th, directing me to attend to that + article. I shall not fail to do what I can in it; but I am afraid they + will consider this also as standing on the same ground with the other + contingent articles. + </p> + <p> + This country, being generally engaged in its elections, affords nothing + new and worthy of communication. The hopes of accommodation between Turkey + and the two empires do not gain strength. The war between Russia and + Denmark on the one hand, and Sweden on the other, is likely also to go on, + the mediation of England being rendered of little force by the accident to + its Executive. The progress of this war, and also of the broils in Poland, + may possibly draw the King of Prussia into it during the ensuing campaign: + and it must, before it be finished, take in this country, and perhaps + England. The ill humor on account of the Dutch revolution continues to + rankle here. They have recalled their ambassador from the Hague, + manifestly to show their dissatisfaction with that court, and some very + dry memorials have lately been exchanged on the subject of the money this + country assumed to pay the Emperor for the Dutch. I send you very full + extracts of these, which will show you the dispositions of the two courts + towards each other. Whether, and when this country will be able to take an + active part, will depend on the issue of their States General. If they + fund their public debts judiciously, and will provide further funds for a + war, on the English plan, 1 believe they will be able to borrow any sums + they please. In the mean time, the situation of England will leave them at + leisure to settle their internal affairs well. That ministry, indeed, + pretend their King is perfectly re-established. No doubt they will make + the most of his amendment, which is real, to a certain degree. But as, + under pretence of this, they have got rid of the daily certificate of the + physicians, and they are possessed of the King’s person, the public must + judge hereafter from such facts only as they can catch. There are several + at present, which, put together, induce a presumption that the King is + only better, not well. And should he be well, time will be necessary to + give a confidence, that it is not merely a lucid interval. On the whole, I + think we may conclude that that country will not take a part in the war + this year, which was by no means certain before. + </p> + <p> + M. del Pinto, formerly minister of Portugal at London, and the same who + negotiated the treaty with us, being now put at the head of the ministry + of that country, I presume that negotiation may be renewed successfully, + if it be the desire of our government. Perhaps an admission of our flour + into their ports may be obtained now, as M. del Pinto seemed impressed + with our reasoning on that subject, and promised to press it on his court, + though he could not then venture to put it into the treaty. There is not + the same reason to hope any relaxation as to our reception in Brazil, + because he would scarcely let us mention that at all. I think, myself, it + is their interest to take away all temptations to our cooperation in the + emancipation of their colonies; and I know no means of doing this, but the + making it our interest that they should continue dependant, nor any other + way of making this our interest, but by allowing us a commerce with them. + However, this is a mode of reasoning which their ministry, probably, could + not bear to listen to. I send herewith the gazettes of France and Leyden, + and have the honor to be, Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0190" id="link2H_4_0190"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CLXXXIX.—TO F. HOPKINSON, March 13, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO F. HOPKINSON. + </p> + <p> + Paris, March 13, 1789. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Since my last, which was of December the 21st, yours of December the 9th + and 21st are received. Accept my thanks for the papers and pamphlets which + accompanied them, and mine and my daughters for the book of songs. I will + not tell you how much they have pleased us, nor how well the last of them + merits praise for its pathos, but relate a fact only, which is, that while + my elder daughter was playing it on the harpsichord, I happened to look + towards the fire, and saw the younger one all in tears. I asked her if she + was sick? She said, ‘No; but the tune was so mournful.’ + </p> + <p> + The Editor of the <i>EncyclopĂ©die</i> has published something as to an + advanced price on his future volumes, which, I understand, alarms the + subscribers. It was in a paper which I do not take, and therefore I have + not yet seen it, nor can I say what it is. I hope that by this time you + have ceased to make wry faces about your vinegar, and that you have + received it safe and good. You say that I have been dished up to you as an + anti-federalist, and ask me if it be just. My opinion was never worthy + enough of notice, to merit citing; but since you ask it, I will tell it to + you. I am not a federalist, because I never submitted the whole system of + my opinions to the creed of any party of men whatever, in religion, in + philosophy, in politics, or in any thing else, where I was capable of + thinking for myself. Such an addiction is the last degradation of a free + and moral agent. If I could not go to heaven but with a party, I would not + go there at all. Therefore, I protest to you, I am not of the party of + federalists. But I am much farther from that of the anti-federalists. I + approved, from the first moment, of the great mass of what is in the new + constitution; the consolidation of the government; the organization into + executive, legislative, and judiciary; the subdivision of the legislative; + the happy compromise of interests between the great and little States, by + the different manner of voting in the different Houses; the voting by + persons instead of States; the qualified negative on laws given to the + executive, which, however, I should have liked better if associated with + the judiciary also, as in New York; and the power of taxation. I thought + at first that the latter might have been limited. A little reflection soon + convinced me it ought not to be. What I disapproved from the first moment, + also, was the want of a bill of rights, to guard liberty against the + legislative as well as executive branches of the government; that is to + say, to secure freedom in religion, freedom of the press, freedom from + monopolies, freedom from unlawful imprisonment, freedom from a permanent + military, and a trial by jury, in all cases determinable by the laws of + the land. I disapproved, also, the perpetual re-eligibility of the + President. To these points of disapprobation I adhere. My first wish was, + that the nine first conventions might accept the constitution, as the + means of securing to us the great mass of good it contained, and that the + four last might reject it, as the means of obtaining amendments. But I was + corrected in this wish, the moment I saw the much better plan of + Massachusetts, and which had never occurred to me. With respect to the + declaration of rights, I suppose the majority of the United States are of + my opinion: for I apprehend all the anti-federalists, and a very + respectable proportion of the federalists, think that such a declaration + should now be annexed. The enlightened part of Europe have given us the + greatest credit for inventing this instrument of security for the rights + of the people, and have been not a little surprised to see us so soon give + it up. With respect to the re-eligibility of the President, I find myself + differing from the majority of my countrymen; for I think there are but + three States of the eleven which have desired an alteration of this. And, + indeed, since the thing is established, I would wish it not to be altered + during the life of our great leader, whose executive talents are superior + to those, I believe, of any man in the world, and who, alone, by the + authority of his name, and the confidence reposed in his perfect + integrity, is fully qualified to put the new government so under way, as + to secure it against the efforts of opposition. But having derived from + our error all the good there was in it, I hope we shall correct it, the + moment we can no longer have the same name at the helm. + </p> + <p> + These, my dear friend, are my sentiments, by which you will see I was + right in saying, I am neither federalist nor anti-federalist; that I am of + neither party, nor yet a trimmer between parties. These, my opinions, I + wrote, within a few hours after I had read the constitution, to one or two + friends in America. I had not then read one single word printed on the + subject. I never had an opinion in politics or religion, which I was + afraid to own. A costive reserve on these subjects might have procured me + more esteem from some people, but less from myself. My great wish is, to + go on in a strict but silent performance of my duty: to avoid attracting + notice, and to keep my name out of newspapers, because I find the pain of + a little censure, even when it is unfounded, is more acute than the + pleasure of much praise. The attaching circumstance of my present office, + is, that I can do its duties unseen by those for whom they are done. You + did not think, by so short a phrase in your letter, to have drawn on + yourself such an egotistical dissertation. I beg your pardon for it, and + will endeavor to merit that pardon by the constant sentiments of esteem + and attachment, with which I am, Dear Sir, your sincere friend and + servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0191" id="link2H_4_0191"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXC.—TO MADAME DE BREHAN, March 14, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO MADAME DE BREHAN. + </p> + <p> + Paris, March 14, 1789. + </p> + <p> + Dear Madam, + </p> + <p> + I had the honor of writing to you on the 15th of February; soon after + which, I had that of receiving your favor of December the 29th. I have a + thousand questions to ask you about your journey to the Indian treaty, how + you like their persons, their manners, their costumes, cuisine, &c. + But this I must defer till I can do it personally in New York, where I + hope to see you for a moment in the summer, and to take your commands for + France. I have little to communicate to you from this place. It is + deserted: every body being gone into the country to choose or be chosen + deputies to the States General. I hope to see that great meeting before my + departure. It is to be on the 27th of next month. A great political + revolution will take place in your country, and that without bloodshed. A + King with two hundred thousand men at his orders, is disarmed by the force + of the public opinion and the want of money. Among the economies becoming + necessary, perhaps one may be the opera. They say, it has cost the public + treasury an hundred thousand crowns the last year. A new theatre is + established since your departure; that of the <i>Opera Buffone</i>, where + Italian operas are given, and good music. It is in the <i>Château des + Tuileries</i>. Paris is every day enlarging and beautifying. I do not + count among its beauties, however, the wall with which they have enclosed + us. They have made some amends for this, by making fine boulevards within + and without the walls. These are in considerable forwardness, and will + afford beautiful rides round the city, of between fifteen and twenty miles + in circuit. We have had such a winter, Madam, as makes me shiver yet, + whenever I think of it. All communications, almost, were cut off. Dinners + and suppers were suppressed, and the money laid out in feeding and warming + the poor, whose labors were suspended by the rigor of the season. Loaded + carriages passed the Seine on the ice, and it was covered with thousands + of people from morning till night, skating and sliding. Such sights were + never seen before, and they continued two months. We have nothing new and + excellent in your charming art of painting. In fact, I do not feel an + interest in any pencil but that of David. But I must not hazard details on + a subject wherein I am so ignorant, and you such a connoisseur. Adieu, my + dear Madam; permit me always the honor of esteeming and being esteemed by + you, and of tendering you the homage of that respectful attachment with + which I am, and shall ever be, Dear Madam, your most obedient, humble + servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0192" id="link2H_4_0192"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXCI.—TO JAMES MADISON, March 15, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO JAMES MADISON. + </p> + <p> + Paris, March 15, 1789. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I wrote you last on the 12th of January; since which I have received yours + of October the 17th, December the 8th and 12th. That of October the 17th + came to hand only February the 23rd. + </p> + <p> + How it happened to be four months on the way, I cannot tell, as I never + knew by what hand it came. Looking over my letter of January the 12th, I + remark an error of the word ‘probable’ instead of’ improbable,’ which, + doubtless, however, you had been able to correct. + </p> + <p> + Your thoughts on the subject of the declaration of rights, in the letter + of October the 17th, I have weighed with great satisfaction. Some of them + had not occurred to me before, but were acknowledged just, in the moment + they were presented to my mind. In the arguments in favor of a declaration + of rights, you omit one which has great weight with me; the legal check + which it puts into the hands of the judiciary. This is a body, which, if + rendered independent and kept strictly to their own department, merits + great confidence for their learning and integrity. In fact, what degree of + confidence would be too much, for a body composed of such men as Wythe, + Blair, and Pendleton? On characters like these, the ‘<i>civium ardor prava + jubentium</i>’ would make no impression. I am happy to find that, on the + whole, you are a friend to this amendment. The declaration of rights is, + like all other human blessings, alloyed with some inconveniences, and not + accomplishing fully its object. But the good, in this instance, vastly + overweighs the evil. I cannot refrain from making short answers to the + objections which your letter states to have been raised. 1. That the + rights in question are reserved, by the manner in which the federal powers + are granted. Answer. A constitutive act, may, certainly, be so formed, as + to need no declaration of rights. The act itself has the force of a + declaration, as far as it goes; and if it goes to all material points, + nothing more is wanting. In the draught of a constitution which I had once + a thought of proposing in Virginia, and printed afterwards, I endeavored + to reach all the great objects of public liberty, and did not mean to add + a declaration of rights. Probably the object was imperfectly executed; but + the deficiencies would have been supplied by others, in the course of + discussion. But in a constitutive act which leaves some precious articles + unnoticed, and raises implications against others, a declaration of rights + becomes necessary, by way of supplement. This is the case of our new + federal constitution. This instrument forms us into one State, as to + certain objects, and gives us a legislative and executive body for these + objects. It should, therefore, guard us against their abuses of power, + within the field submitted to them. 2. A positive declaration of some + essential rights could not be obtained in the requisite latitude. Answer. + Half a loaf is better than no bread. If we cannot secure all our rights, + let us secure what we can. 3. The limited powers of the federal + government, and jealousy of the subordinate governments, afford a security + which exists in no other instance. Answer. The first member of this seems + resolvable into the first objection before stated. The jealousy of the + subordinate governments is a precious reliance. But observe that those + governments are only agents. They must have principles furnished them, + whereon to found their opposition. The declaration of rights will be the + text, whereby they will try all the acts of the federal government. In + this view, it is necessary to the federal government also; as by the same + text, they may try the opposition of the subordinate governments. 4. + Experience proves the inefficacy of a bill of rights. True. But though it + is not absolutely efficacious under all circumstances, it is of great + potency always, and rarely inefficacious. A brace the more will often keep + up the building which would have fallen, with that brace the less. There + is a remarkable difference between the characters of the inconveniences + which attend a declaration of rights, and those which attend the want of + it. The inconveniences of the declaration are, that it may cramp + government in its useful exertions. But the evil of this is short-lived, + moderate, and reparable. The inconveniences of the want of a declaration + are permanent, afflicting, and irreparable. They are in constant + progression from bad to worse. The executive, in our governments, is not + the sole, it is scarcely the principal object of my jealousy. The tyranny + of the legislatures is the most formidable dread at present, and will be + for many years. That of the executive will come in its turn; but it will + be at a remote period. I know there are some among us, who would now + establish a monarchy. But they are inconsiderable in number and weight of + character. The rising race are all republicans. We were educated in + royalism; no wonder, if some of us retain that idolatry still. Our young + people are educated in republicanism; an apostacy from that to royalism is + unprecedented and impossible. I am much pleased with the prospect that a + declaration of rights will be added; and I hope it will be done in that + way, which will not endanger the whole frame of government, or any + essential part of it. + </p> + <p> + I have hitherto avoided public news in my letters to you, because your + situation insured you a communication of my letters to Mr. Jay. This + circumstance being changed, I shall, in future, indulge myself in these + details to you. There had been some slight hopes that an accommodation + might be effected between the Turks and two empires; but these hopes do + not strengthen, and the season is approaching which will put an end to + them, for another campaign at least. The accident to the King of England + has had great influence on the affairs of Europe. His mediation, joined + with that of Prussia, would certainly have kept Denmark quiet, and so have + left the two empires in the hands of the Turks and Swedes. But the + inactivity to which England is reduced, leaves Denmark more free, and she + will probably go on in opposition to Sweden. The King of Prussia, too, had + advanced so far, that he can scarcely retire. This is rendered the more + difficult by the troubles he has excited in Poland. He cannot, well + abandon the party he had brought forward there; so that it is very + possible he may be engaged in the ensuing campaign. France will be quiet + this year, because this year, at least, is necessary for settling her + future constitution. The States will meet the 27th of April: and the + public mind will. I think, by that time, be ripe for a just decision of + the question, whether they shall vote by orders or persons. I think there + is a majority of the Nobles already for the latter. If so, their affairs + cannot but go on well. Besides settling for themselves a tolerably free + constitution, perhaps as free a one as the nation is as yet prepared to + bear, they will fund their public debts. This will give them such a + credit, as will enable them to borrow any money they may want, and of + course, to take the field again, when they think proper. And I believe + they mean to take the field as soon as they can. The pride of every + individual in the nation suffers under the ignominies they have lately + been exposed to, and I think the States General will give money for a war, + to wipe off the reproach. There have arisen new bickerings between this + court and that of the Hague; and the papers which have passed, show the + most bitter acrimony rankling at the heart of this ministry. They have + recalled their ambassador from the Hague, without appointing a successor. + They have given a note to the Diet of Poland, which shows a disapprobation + of their measures. The insanity of the King of England has been fortunate + for them, as it gives them time to put their house in order. The English + papers tell you the King is well; and even the English ministry say so. + They will naturally set the best foot foremost; and they guard his person + so well, that it is difficult for the public to contradict them. The King + is probably better, but not well, by a great deal. 1. He has been bled, + and judicious physicians say, that in his exhausted state, nothing could + have induced a recurrence to bleeding, but symptoms of relapse. 2. The + Prince of Wales tells the Irish deputation, he will give them a definitive + answer in some days; but if the King had been well, he could have given it + at once. 3. They talk of passing a standing law, for providing a regency + in similar cases. They apprehend then, they are not yet clear of the + danger of wanting a regency. + </p> + <p> + 4. They have carried the King to church; but it was his private chapel. If + he be well, why do not they show him publicly to the nation, and raise + them from that consternation into which they have been thrown, by the + prospect of being delivered over to the profligate hands of the Prince of + Wales. In short, judging from little facts, which are known in spite of + their teeth, the King is better, but not well. Possibly he is getting + well, but still time will be wanting to satisfy even the ministry, that it + is not merely a lucid interval. Consequently, they cannot interrupt France + this year in the settlement of her affairs, and after this year it will be + too late. + </p> + <p> + As you will be in a situation to know when the leave of absence will be + granted me, which I have asked, will you be so good as to communicate it, + by a line, to Mr. Lewis and Mr. Eppes? I hope to see you in the summer, + and that if you are not otherwise engaged, you will encamp with me at + Monticello for a while. + </p> + <p> + I am, with great and sincere attachment, Dear Sir, your affectionate + friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0193" id="link2H_4_0193"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER, CXCII.—TO THOMAS PAINE, March 17,1789 + </h2> + <h3> + TO THOMAS PAINE. + </h3> + <p> + Paris, March 17,1789. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + My last letter to you extended from December the 23rd to January the 11th. + A confidential opportunity now arising, I can acknowledge the receipt of + yours of January the 15th, at the date of which you could not have + received mine. + </p> + <p> + You knew, long ago, that the meeting of the States is to be at Versailles, + on the 27th of April. This country is entirely occupied in its elections, + which go on quietly and well. The Duke d’Orleans is elected for Villers + Cotterets. The Prince of Conde has lost the election he aimed at; nor is + it certain he can be elected any where. We have no news from Auvergne, + whither the Marquis de la Fayette is gone. In general, all the men of + influence in the country are gone into the several provinces, to get their + friends elected, or be elected themselves. Since my letter to you, a + tumult arose in Bretagne, in which four or five lives were lost. They are + now quieter, and this is the only instance of a life lost, as yet, in this + revolution. The public mind is now so far ripened by time and discussion, + that there seems to be but one opinion on the principal points. The + question of voting by persons or orders is the most controverted; but even + that seems to have gained already a majority among the Nobles. I fear more + from the number of the Assembly, than from any other cause. Twelve hundred + persons are difficult to keep to order, and will be so, especially, till + they shall have had time to frame rules of order. Their funds continue + stationary, and at the level they have stood at for some years past. We + hear so little of the parliaments for some time past, that one is hardly + sensible of their existence. This unimportance is probably the forerunner + of their total re-modification by the nation. The article of legislation + is the only interesting one on which the court has not explicitly declared + itself to the nation. The Duke d’Orleans has given instructions to his + proxies in the <i>bailliages</i>, which would be deemed bold in England, + and are reasonable beyond the reach of an Englishman, who, slumbering + under a kind of half reformation in politics and religion, is not excited + by any thing he sees or feels, to question the remains of prejudice. The + writers of this country, now taking the field freely, and unrestrained, or + rather revolted by prejudice, will rouse us all from the errors in which + we have been hitherto rocked. + </p> + <p> + We had, at one time, some hope, that an accommodation would have been + effected between the Turks and two empires. Probably the taking Oczakow, + while it has attached the Empress more to the Crimea, is not important + enough to the Turks, to make them consent to peace. These hopes are + vanishing. Nor does there seem any prospect of peace between Russia and + Sweden. The palsied condition of England leaves it probable, that Denmark + will pursue its hostilities against Sweden. It does not seem certain + whether the King of Prussia has advanced so far in that mediation, and in + the troubles he has excited in Poland, as to be obliged to become a party. + Nor will his becoming a party draw in this country, the present year, if + England remains quiet. Papers which have lately passed between this court + and the government of Holland, prove that this nourishes its discontent, + and only waits to put its house in order, before it interposes. They have + recalled their ambassador from the Hague, without naming a successor. The + King of Sweden, not thinking that Russia and Denmark are enough for him, + has arrested a number of his Nobles, of principal rank and influence. It + is a bold measure, at least, and he is too boyish a character to authorize + us to presume it a wise one, merely because he has adopted it. His army + was before disgusted. He now puts the Nobles and all their dependants on + the same side, and they are sure of armed support, by Russia on the north, + and Denmark on the south. He can have no salvation but in the King of + Prussia. + </p> + <p> + I have received two letters from Ledyard, the one dated Alexandria, August + the 15th, the other Grand Cairo, September the 10th; and one lately from + Admiral Paul Jones, dated St. Petersburg, January the 31st. He was just + arrived there, on the call of the Empress, and was uncertain where he + should be employed the next campaign. Mr. Littlepage has returned from the + Black Sea to Warsaw, where he has been perfectly received by the King. I + saw this from under the King’s own hand, and was pleased with the parental + expressions towards him. + </p> + <p> + We have no news from America later than the middle of January. My letters + inform me, that even the friends of the new constitution have come over to + the expediency of adding a declaration of rights. There is reason to hope + that this will be proposed by Congress to the several legislatures, and + that the plan of New York for calling a new convention, will be rejected. + Hitherto, no State had acceded to it but Virginia, in which Henry and + anti-federalism had got full possession of their legislature. But the + people are better disposed. My departure for America is likely to be + retarded, by the want of a Congress to give me permission. I must attend + it from the new government. I am anxious to know how much we ought to + believe of the recovery of the King of England. By putting little facts + together, I see that he is not well. Mr. Rumsey (who came in while I was + writing the preceding page) tells me you have a long letter ready for me. + I shall be happy to receive it. + </p> + <p> + I am, with great and sincere attachment, Dear Sir, your affectionate + friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0194" id="link2H_4_0194"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXIII.—TO COLONEL HUMPHREYS, March 18, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO COLONEL HUMPHREYS. + </p> + <p> + Paris, March 18, 1789. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Your favor of November the 29th, 1788, came to hand the last month. How it + happened that mine of August, 1787, was fourteen months on its way, is + inconceivable. I do not recollect by what conveyance I sent it. I had + concluded, however, either that it had miscarried, or that you had become + indolent, as most of our countrymen are, in matters of correspondence. + </p> + <p> + The change in this country since you left it, is such as you can form no + idea of. The frivolities of conversation have given way entirely to + politics. Men, women, and children talk nothing else: and all, you know, + talk a great deal. The press groans with daily productions, which, in + point of boldness, make an Englishman stare, who hitherto has thought + himself the boldest of men. A complete revolution in this government, has, + within the space of two years (for it began with the <i>Notables</i> of + 1787), been effected merely by the force of public opinion, aided, indeed, + by the want of money, which the dissipations of the court had brought on. + And this revolution has not cost a single life, unless we charge to it a + little riot lately in Bretagne, which began about the price of bread, + became afterwards political, and ended in the loss of four or five lives. + The assembly of the States General begins the 27th of April. The + representation of the people will be perfect. But they will be alloyed by + an equal number of nobility and clergy. The first great question they will + have to decide, will be, whether they shall vote by orders or persons. And + I have hopes, that the majority of the Nobles are already disposed to join + the <i>Tiers-Etat</i>, in deciding that the vote shall be by persons. This + is the opinion <i>a la mode</i> at present, and mode has acted a wonderful + part in the present instance. All the handsome young women, for example, + are for the <i>Tiers-Etat</i> and this is an army more powerful in France, + than the two hundred thousand men of the King. Add to this, that the court + itself is for the <i>Tiers-Etat</i>, as the only agent which can relieve + their wants: not by giving money themselves (they are squeezed to the last + drop), but by pressing it from the non-contributing orders. The King + stands engaged to pretend no more to the power of laying, continuing, or + appropriating taxes; to call the States General periodically; to submit <i>lettres + de cachet</i> to legal restrictions; to consent to freedom of the press; + and that all this shall be fixed by a fundamental constitution, which + shall bind his successors. He has not offered a participation in the + legislature, but it will surely be insisted on. The public mind is so + ripened on all these subjects, that there seems to be now but one opinion. + The clergy, indeed, think separately, and the old men among the Nobles: + but their voice is suppressed by the general one of the nation. The + writings published on this occasion are, some of them, very valuable; + because, unfettered by the prejudices under which the English labor, they + give a full scope to reason, and strike out truths, as yet unperceived and + unacknowledged on the other side the channel. An Englishman, dozing under + a kind of half reformation, is not excited to think by such gross + absurdities as stare a Frenchman in the face, wherever he looks, whether + it be towards the throne or the altar. In fine, I believe this nation + will, in the course of the present year, have as full a portion of liberty + dealt out to them, as the nation can bear at present, considering how + uninformed the mass of their people is. This circumstance will prevent the + immediate establishment of the trial by jury. The palsied state of the + executive in England is a fortunate circumstance for France, as it will + give her time to arrange her affairs internally. The consolidation and + funding their debts, will give government a credit which will enable them + to do what they please. For the present year the war will be confined to + the two empires and Denmark, against Turkey and Sweden. It is not yet + evident, whether Prussia will be engaged. If the disturbances of Poland + break out into overt acts, it will be a power divided in itself, and so of + no weight. Perhaps by the next year England and France may be ready to + take the field. It will depend on the former principally, for the latter, + though she may be then able, must wish still a little time to see her new + arrangements well under way. The English papers and English ministry say + the King is well. He is better, but not well: no malady requires a longer + time to insure against its return than insanity. Time alone can + distinguish accidental insanity from habitual lunacy. + </p> + <p> + The operations which have taken place in America lately fill me with + pleasure. In the first place, they realize the confidence I had, that, + whenever our affairs go obviously wrong, the good sense of the people will + interpose, and set them to rights. The example of changing a constitution, + by assembling the wise men of the State, instead of assembling armies, + will be worth as much to the world as the former examples we had given + them. The constitution, too, which was the result of our deliberations, is + unquestionably the wisest ever yet presented to men, and some of the + accommodations of interest which it has adopted are greatly pleasing to + me, who have before had occasions of seeing how difficult those interests + were to accommodate. A general concurrence of opinion seems to authorize + us to say it has some defects. I am one of those who think it a defect, + that the important rights, not placed in security by the frame of the + constitution itself, were not explicitly secured by a supplementary + declaration. There are rights which it is useless to surrender to the + government, and which governments have yet always been fond to invade. + These are the rights of thinking, and publishing our thoughts by speaking + or writing; the right of free commerce; the right of personal freedom. + There are instruments for administering the government so peculiarly + trust-worthy, that we should never leave the legislature at liberty to + change them. The new constitution has secured these in the executive and + legislative departments; but not in the judiciary. It should have + established trials by the people themselves, that is to say, by jury. + There are instruments so dangerous to the rights of the nation, and which + place them so totally at the mercy of their governors, that those + governors, whether legislative or executive, should be restrained from + keeping such instruments on foot, but in well defined cases. Such an + instrument is a standing army. We are now allowed to say, such a + declaration of rights, as a supplement to the constitution, where that is + silent, is wanting, to secure us in these points. The general voice has + legitimated this objection. It has not, however, authorized me to consider + as a real defect, what I thought, and still think one, the perpetual + re-eligibility of the President. But three States out of eleven having + declared against this, we must suppose we are wrong, according to the + fundamental law of every society, the <i>lex majoris partis</i>, to which + we are bound to submit. And should the majority change their opinion, and + become sensible that this trait in their constitution is wrong, I would + wish it to remain uncorrected, as long as we can avail ourselves of the + services of our great leader, whose talents and whose weight of character, + I consider as peculiarly necessary to get the government so under way, as + that it may afterwards be carried on by subordinate characters. + </p> + <p> + I must give you sincere thanks for the details of small news contained in + your letter. You know how previous that kind of information is to a person + absent from his country, and how difficult it is to be procured. I hope to + receive soon permission to visit America this summer, and to possess + myself anew, by conversation with my countrymen, of their spirit and their + ideas. I know only the Americans of the year 1784. They tell me this is to + be much a stranger to those of 1789. This renewal of acquaintance is no + indifferent matter to one, acting at such a distance, as that instructions + cannot be received hot and hot. One of my pleasures, too, will be that of + talking over the old and new with you. + </p> + <p> + In the mean time, and at all times, I have the honor to be, with great and + sincere esteem. Dear Sir, your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson, + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0195" id="link2H_4_0195"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXCIV.—TO DOCTOR WILLARD, March 24, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO DOCTOR WILLARD. + </p> + <p> + Paris, March 24, 1789. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have been lately honored with your letter of September the 24th, 1788, + accompanied by a diploma for a Doctorate of Laws, which the University of + Harvard has been pleased to confer on me. Conscious how little I merit it, + I am the more sensible of their goodness and indulgence to a stranger, who + has had no means ef serving or making himself known to them. I beg you to + return them my grateful thanks, and to assure them that this notice from + so eminent a seat of science is very precious to me. + </p> + <p> + The most remarkable publications we have had in France, for a year or two + past, are the following. <i>Les Voyages d’Anacharsis, par Abbe Barthelemi</i>, + seven volumes, octavo. This is a very elegant digest of whatever is known + of the Greeks; useless, indeed, to him who has read the original authors, + but very proper for one who reads modern languages only. The works of the + King of Prussia. The Berlin edition is in sixteen volumes, octavo. It is + said to have been gutted at Berlin; and here it has been still more + mangled. There are one or two other editions published abroad, which + pretend to have rectified the maltreatment both of Berlin and Paris. Some + time will be necessary to settle the public mind as to the best edition. + </p> + <p> + Montignot has given us the original Greek, and a French translation of the + seventh book of Ptolemy’s great work, under the title of <i>Etat des + Etoiles fixes au second siecle</i>, in quarto. He has given the + designation of the same stars by Flamsteed and Bayer, and their position + in the year 1786. A very remarkable work is the <i>Mechanique Analytique + of La Grange</i>, in quarto. He is allowed to be the greatest + mathematician now living, and his personal worth is equal to his science. + The object of his work is to reduce all the principles of mechanics to the + single one of the equilibrium, and to give a simple formula applicable to + them all. The subject is treated in the algebraic method, without diagrams + to assist the conception. My present occupations not permitting me to read + any thing which requires a long and undisturbed attention, I am not able + to give you the character of this work from my own examination. It has + been received with great approbation in Europe. In Italy, the works of + Spallanzani on Digestion and Generation are valuable. Though, perhaps, too + minute, and therefore tedious, he has developed some useful truths, and + his book is well worth attention; it is in four volumes, octavo. + Clavigero, an Italian also, who has resided thirty-six years in Mexico, + has given us a History of that country, which certainly merits more + respect than any other work on the same subject. He corrects many errors + of Dr. Robertson; and though sound philosophy will disapprove many of his + ideas, we must still consider it as an useful work, and assuredly the best + we possess on the same subject. It is in four thin volumes, small quarto. + De la Lande has not yet published a fifth volume. + </p> + <p> + The chemical dispute about the conversion and reconversion of air and + water, continues still undecided. Arguments and authorities are so + balanced, that we may still safely believe, as our fathers did before us, + that these principles are distinct. A schism of another kind has taken + place among the chemists. A particular set of them here have undertaken to + remodel all the terms of the science, and to give to every substance a new + name, the composition, and especially the termination of which, shall + define the relation in which it stands to other substances of the same + family. But the science seems too much in its infancy as yet, for this + reformation; because, in fact, the reformation of this year must be + reformed again the next year, and so on, changing the names of substances + as often as new experiments develope properties in them undiscovered + before. The new nomenclature has, accordingly, been already proved to need + numerous and important reformations. Probably it will not prevail. It is + espoused by the minority only here, and by very few, indeed, of the + foreign chemists. It is particularly rejected in England. + </p> + <p> + In the arts, I think two of our countrymen have presented the most + important inventions. Mr. Paine, the author of ‘Common Sense,’ has + invented an iron bridge, which promises to be cheaper by a great deal than + stone, and to admit of a much greater arch. He supposes it may be ventured + for an arch of five hundred feet. He has obtained a patent for it in + England, and is now executing the first experiment with an arch of between + ninety and one hundred feet. Mr. Rumsey has also obtained a patent for his + navigation by the force of steam in England, and is soliciting a similar + one here. His principal merit is in the improvement of the boiler, and + instead of the complicated machinery of oars and paddles, proposed by + others, the substitution of so simple a thing as the reaction of a stream + of water on his vessel. He is building a sea-vessel at this time in + England, and she will be ready for an experiment in May. He has suggested + a great number of mechanical improvements in a variety of branches, and, + upon the whole, is the most original and the greatest mechanical genius I + have ever seen. The return of La Peyrouse (whenever that shall happen) + will probably add to our knowledge in Geography, Botany, and Natural + History. What a field have we at our doors to signalize ourselves in! The + Botany of America is far from being exhausted, its Mineralogy is + untouched, and its Natural History or Zoology totally mistaken and + misrepresented. As far as I have seen, there is not one single species of + terrestrial birds common to Europe and America, and I question if there be + a single species of quadrupeds. (Domestic animals are to be excepted.) It + is for such institutions as that over which you preside so worthily, Sir, + to do justice to our country, its productions, and its genius. It is the + work to which the young men, whom you are forming, should lay their hands. + We have spent the prime of our lives in procuring them the precious + blessing of liberty. Let them spend theirs in showing that it is the great + parent of science and of virtue; and that a nation will be great in both, + always in proportion as it is free. Nobody wishes more warmly for the + success of your good exhortations on this subject, than he who has the + honor to be, with sentiments of great esteem and respect, Sir, your most + obedient, humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0196" id="link2H_4_0196"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXCV.—TO J. SARSFIELD, April 3, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO J. SARSFIELD. + </p> + <p> + Paris, April 3, 1789. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I could not name to you the day of my departure from Paris, because I do + not know it. I have not yet received my <i>congĂ©</i>, though I hope to + receive it soon, and to leave this some time in May, so that I may be back + before the winter. + </p> + <p> + Impost is a duty paid on any imported article, in the moment of its + importation, and of course, it is collected in the sea-ports only. Excise + is a duty on any article, whether imported or raised at home, and paid in + the hands of the consumer or retailer; consequently, it is collected + through the whole country. These are the true definitions of these words + as used in England, and in the greater part of the United States. But in + Massachusetts, they have perverted the word excise to mean a tax on all + liquors, whether paid in the moment of importation or at a later moment, + and on nothing else. So that in reading the debates of the Massachusetts + convention, you must give this last meaning to the word excise. + </p> + <p> + Rotation is the change of officers required by the laws at certain epochs, + and in a certain order: thus, in Virginia, our justices of the peace are + made sheriffs one after the other, each remaining in office two years, and + then yielding it to his next brother in order of seniority. This is the + just and classical meaning of the word. But in America we have extended it + (for want of a proper word) to all cases of officers who must be + necessarily changed at a fixed epoch, though the successor be not pointed + out in any particular order, but comes in by free election. By the term + rotation in office, then, we mean an obligation on the holder of that + office to go out at a certain period. In our first Confederation, the + principle of rotation was established in the office of President of + Congress, who could serve but one year in three, and in that of a member + of Congress, who could serve but three years in six. + </p> + <p> + I believe all the countries in Europe determine their standard of money, + in gold as well as silver. Thus, the laws of England direct that a pound + Troy of gold, of twenty-two carats fine, shall be cut into forty-four and + a half guineas, each of which shall be worth twenty-one and a half + shillings, that is, into 956 3/4 shillings. This establishes the shilling + at 5.518 grains of pure gold. They direct that a pound of silver, + consisting of 11 1/10 ounces of pure silver, and 9/10 of an ounce alloy, + shall be cut into sixty-two shillings. This establishes the shilling at + 85.93 grains of pure silver, and, consequently, the proportion of gold to + silver as 85.93 to 5.518, or as 15.57 to 1. If this be the true proportion + between the value of gold and silver at the general market of Europe, then + the value of the shilling, depending on two standards, is the same, + whether a payment be made in gold or in silver. But if the proportion at + the general market of Europe be as fifteen to one, then the Englishman who + owes a pound weight of gold at Amsterdam, if he sends the pound of gold to + pay it, sends 1043.72 shillings; if he sends fifteen pounds of silver, he + sends only 1030.5 shillings; if he pays half in gold and half in silver, + he pays only 1037.11 shillings. And this medium between the two standards + of gold and silver, we must consider as furnishing the true medium value + of the shilling. If the parliament should now order the pound of gold (of + one-twelfth alloy as before) to be cut into a thousand shillings instead + of nine hundred and fifty-six and three fourths, leaving the silver as it + is, the medium or true value of the shilling would suffer a change of half + the difference; and in the case before stated, to pay a debt of a pound + weight of gold, at Amsterdam, if he sent the pound weight of gold, he + would send 1090.9 shillings; if he sent fifteen pounds of silver, he would + send 1030.5 shillings; if half in gold and half in silver, he would send + 1060.7 shillings; which shows, that this parliamentary operation would + reduce the value of the shilling in the proportion of 1060.7 to 1037.11. + </p> + <p> + Now this is exactly the effect of the late change in the quantity of gold + contained in your louis. Your <i>marc d’argent fin</i> is cut into 53.45 + livres (fifty-three livres and nine sous), the <i>marc de l’or fin</i> was + cut, heretofore, by law, into 784.6 livres (seven hundred and eighty-four + livres and twelve sous); gold was to silver, then, as 14.63 to 1. And if + this was different from the proportion at the markets of Europe, the true + value of your livre stood half way between the two standards. By the + ordinance of October the 30th, 1785, the marc of pure gold has been cut + into 828.6 livres. If your standard had been in gold alone, this would + have reduced the value of the livre, in the proportion of 828.6 to 784.6. + But as you had a standard of silver as well as gold, the true standard is + the medium between the two; consequently, the value of the livre is + reduced only one half the difference, that is, as 806.6 to 784.6, which is + very nearly three per cent. Commerce, however, has made a difference of + four per cent., the average value of the pound sterling, formerly + twenty-four livres, being now twenty-five livres. Perhaps some other + circumstance has occasioned an addition of one per cent, to the change of + your standard. + </p> + <p> + I fear I have tired you by these details. I did not mean to be so lengthy + when I began. I beg you to consider them as an appeal to your judgment, + which I value, and from which I will expect a correction, if they are + wrong. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with very great esteem and attachment, Dear Sir, + your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0197" id="link2H_4_0197"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXCVI.—TO THE MARQUIS DE LA FAYETTE, May 6,1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO THE MARQUIS DE LA FAYETTE. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 6,1789. + </p> + <p> + My Dear Friend, + </p> + <p> + As it becomes more and more possible that the <i>Noblesse</i> will go + wrong, I become uneasy for you. Your principles are decidedly with the <i>Tiers-Etat</i>, + and your instructions against them. A complaisance to the latter on some + occasions, and an adherence to the former on others, may give an + appearance of trimming between the two parties, which may lose you both. + You will, in the end, go over wholly to the <i>Tiers-Etat</i>, because it + will be impossible for you to live in a constant sacrifice of your own + sentiments to the prejudices of the <i>Noblesse</i>. But you would be + received by the <i>Tiers-Etat</i>, at any future day, coldly, and without + confidence. This appears to me the moment to take at once that honest and + manly stand with them, which your own principles dictate. This will win + their hearts for ever, be approved by the world, which marks and honors + you as the man of the people, and will be an eternal consolation to + yourself. The <i>Noblesse</i>, and especially the <i>Noblesse of Auvergne</i>, + will always prefer men who will do their dirty work for them. You are not + made for that. They will therefore soon drop you, and the people, in that + case, will perhaps not take you up. Suppose a scission should take place. + The Priests and Nobles will secede, the nation will remain in place, and, + with the King, will do its own business. If violence should be attempted, + where will you be? You cannot then take side with the people in opposition + to your own vote, that very vote which will have helped to produce the + scission. Still less can you array yourself against the people. That is + impossible. Your instructions are indeed a difficulty. But to state this + at its worst, it is only a single difficulty, which a single effort + surmounts. Your instructions can never embarrass you a second time, + whereas an acquiescence under them will re-produce greater difficulties + every day, and without end. Besides, a thousand circumstances offer as + many justifications of your departure from your instructions. Will it be + impossible to persuade all parties, that (as for good legislation two + Houses are necessary) the placing the privileged classes together in one + House, and the unprivileged in another, would be better for both than a + scission? I own I think it would. People can never agree without some + sacrifices; and it appears but a moderate sacrifice in each party, to meet + on this middle ground. The attempt to bring this about might satisfy your + instructions, and a failure in it would justify your siding with the + people, even to those who think instructions are laws of conduct. Forgive + me, my dear friend, if my anxiety for you makes me talk of things I know + nothing about. You must not consider this as advice. I know you and myself + too well to presume to offer advice. Receive it merely as the expression + of my uneasiness, and the effusion of that sincere friendship, with which + I am, my dear Sir, yours affectionately, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0198" id="link2H_4_0198"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXCVII.—TO WILLIAM CARMICHAEL, May 8, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO WILLIAM CARMICHAEL. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 8, 1789. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Your favor of January the 26th, to March the 27th, is duly received, and I + thank you for the interesting papers it contained. The answer of Don + Ulloa, however, on the subject of the canal through the American isthmus, + was not among them, though mentioned to be so. If you have omitted it + through accident, I shall thank you for it at some future occasion, as I + wish much to understand that subject thoroughly. Our American information + comes down to the 16th of March. There had not yet been members enough + assembled of the new Congress, to open the tickets. They expected to do it + in a day or two. In the mean time, it was said from all the States, that + their vote had been unanimous for General Washington, and a good majority + in favor of Mr. Adams, who is certainly, therefore, Vice-President. The + new government would be supported by very cordial and very general + dispositions in its favor from the people. I have not yet seen a list of + the new Congress. This delay in the meeting of the new government has + delayed the determination on my petition for leave of absence. However, I + expect to receive it every day, and am in readiness to sail the instant I + receive it, so that this is probably the last letter I shall write you + hence, till my return. While there, I shall avail government of the useful + information I have received from you, and shall not fail to profit of any + good occasion which may occur, to show the difference between your real + situation, and what it ought to be. I consider Paris and Madrid as the two + only points, at which Europe and America should touch closely, and that a + connection at these points should be fostered. + </p> + <p> + We have had in this city a very considerable riot, in which about one + hundred people have been probably killed. It was the most unprovoked, and + is therefore, justly, the most unpitied catastrophe of that kind I ever + knew. Nor did the wretches know what they wanted, except to do mischief. + It seems to have had no particular connection with the great national + question now in agitation. The want of bread is very seriously dreaded + through the whole kingdom. Between twenty and thirty ship-loads of wheat + and flour has already arrived from the United States, and there will be + about the same quantity of rice sent from Charleston to this country + directly, of which about half has arrived. I presume that, between wheat + and rice, one hundred ship-loads may be counted on in the whole from us. + Paris consumes about a ship-load a day, (say two hundred and fifty tons.) + The total supply of the West Indies, for this year, rests with us, and + there is almost a famine in Canada and Nova Scotia. The States General + were opened the day before yesterday. Viewing it as an opera, it was + imposing; as a scene of business, the King’s speech was exactly what it + should have been, and very well delivered; not a word of the Chancellor’s + was heard by any body, so that, as yet, I have never heard a single guess + at what it was about. Mr. Necker’s was as good as such a number of details + would permit it to be. The picture of their resources was consoling, and + generally plausible. I could have wished him to have dwelt more on those + great constitutional reformations, which his <i>Rapport au Roy</i> had + prepared us to expect. But they observe, that these points are proper for + the speech of the Chancellor. We are in hopes, therefore, they were in + that speech, which, like the Revelations of St. John, were no revelations + at all. The <i>Noblesse</i>, on coming together, show that they are not as + much reformed in their principles as we had hoped they would be. In fact, + there is real danger of their totally refusing to vote by persons. Some + found hopes on the lower clergy, which constitute four-fifths of the + deputies of that order. If they do not turn the balance in favor of the <i>Tiers-Etat</i>, + there is real danger of a scission. But I shall not consider even that + event as rendering things desperate. If the King will do business with the + <i>Tiers-Etat</i>, which constitutes the nation, it may be well done + without Priests or Nobles. From the best information I can obtain, the + King of England’s madness has terminated in an imbecility, which may very + possibly be of long continuance. He is going with his Queen to Germany. + England chained to rest, the other parts of Europe may recover or retain + tranquillity. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with great and sincere esteem, Dear Sir, your most + obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson.. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0199" id="link2H_4_0199"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXCVIII.—TO JOHN JAY, May 9, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 9, 1789. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + Since my letter of March the 1st, by the way of Havre, and those of March + the 12th and 15th, by the way of London, no opportunity of writing has + occurred, till the present to London. + </p> + <p> + There are no symptoms of accommodation between the Turks and two empires, + nor between Russia and Sweden. The Emperor was, on the 16th of the last + month, expected to die, certainly; he was, however, a little better when + the last news came away, so that hopes were entertained of him; but it is + agreed that he cannot get the better of his complaints ultimately, so that + his life is not at all counted on. The Danes profess, as yet, to do no + more against Sweden than furnish their stipulated aid. The agitation of + Poland is still violent, though somewhat moderated by the late change in + the demeanor of the King of Prussia. He is much less thrasonic than he + was. This is imputed to the turn which the English politics may be + rationally expected to take. It is very difficult to get at the true state + of the British King j but from the best information we can get, his + madness has gone off, but he is left in a state of imbecility and + melancholy. They are going to carry him to Hanover, to see whether such a + journey may relieve him. The Queen accompanies him. If England. should, by + this accident, be reduced to inactivity, the southern countries of Europe + may escape the present war. Upon the whole, the prospect for the present + year, if no unforeseen accident happens, is certain peace for the powers + not already engaged, a probability that Denmark will not become a + principal, and a mere possibility that Sweden and Russia may be + accommodated. The interior disputes of Sweden are so exactly detailed in + the Leyden gazette, that I have nothing to add on that subject. + </p> + <p> + The revolution of this country has advanced thus far without encountering + any thing which deserves to be called a difficulty. There have been riots + in a few instances, in three or four different places, in which there may + have been a dozen or twenty lives lost. The exact truth is not be got at. + A few days ago, a much more serious riot took place in this city, in which + it became necessary for the troops to engage in regular action with the + mob, and probably about one hundred of the latter were killed. Accounts + vary from twenty to two hundred. They were the most abandoned banditti of + Paris, and never was a riot more unprovoked and unpitied. They began, + under a pretence that a paper manufacturer had proposed in an assembly, to + reduce their wages to fifteen sous a day. They rifled his house, destroyed + every thing in his magazines and shops, and were only stopped in their + career of mischief, by the carnage above mentioned. Neither this nor any + other of the riots, have had a professed connection with the great + national reformation going on. They are such as have happened every year + since I have been here, and as will continue to be produced by common + incidents. The States General were opened on the 4th instant, by a speech + from the throne, one by the <i>Garde des Sceaux</i>, and one from Mr. + Necker. I hope they will be printed in time to send you herewith: lest + they should not, I will observe, that that of Mr, Necker stated the real + and ordinary deficit to be fifty-six millions, and that he showed that + this could be made up without a new tax, by economies and bonifications + which he specified. Several articles of the latter are liable to the + objection, that they are proposed on branches of the revenue, of which the + nation has demanded a suppression. He tripped too lightly over the great + articles of constitutional reformation, these being not as clearly + announced in this discourse as they were in his <i>Rapport au Roy</i>, + which I sent you some time ago. On the whole, his discourse has not + satisfied the patriotic party. It is now, for the first time, that their + revolution is likely to receive a serious check, and begins to wear a + fearful appearance. The progress of light and liberality in the order of + the <i>Noblesse</i> has equalled expectation in Paris only, and its + vicinities. The great mass of deputies of that order, which come from the + country, show that the habits of tyranny over the people, are deeply + rooted in them. They will consent, indeed, to equal taxation; but + five-sixths of that chamber are thought to be, decidedly, for voting by + orders; so that, had this great preliminary question rested on this body, + which formed heretofore the sole hope, that hope would have been + completely disappointed. Some aid, however, comes in from a quarter whence + none was expected. It was imagined the ecclesiastical elections would have + been generally in favor of the higher clergy; on the contrary, the lower + clergy have obtained five-sixths of these deputations. These are the sons + of peasants, who have done all the drudgery of the service, for ten, + twenty, and thirty guineas a year, and whose oppressions and penury, + contrasted with the pride and luxury of the higher clergy, have rendered + them perfectly disposed to humble the latter. They have done it, in many + instances, with a boldness they were thought insusceptible of. Great hopes + have been formed, that these would concur with the <i>Tiers-Etat</i>, in + voting by persons. In fact, about half of them seem as yet so disposed; + but the bishops are intriguing, and drawing them over with the address + which has ever marked ecclesiastical intrigue. The deputies of the <i>Tiers-Etat</i> + seem, almost to a man, inflexibly determined against the vote by orders. + This is the state of parties, as well as can be judged from conversation + only, during the fortnight they have been now together. But as no business + has been yet begun, no votes as yet taken, this calculation cannot be + considered as sure. A middle proposition is talked of, to form the two + privileged orders into one chamber. It is thought more possible to bring + them into it, than the <i>Tiers-Etat</i>. Another proposition is, to + distinguish questions, referring those of certain descriptions to a vote + by persons, others to a vote by orders. This seems to admit of endless + altercation, and the <i>Tiers-Etat</i> manifest no respect for that, or + any other modification whatever. Were this single question accommodated, I + am of opinion, there would not occur the least difficulty in the great and + essential points of constitutional reformation. But on this preliminary + question the parties are so irreconcilable, that it is impossible to + foresee what issue it will have. The <i>Tiers-Etat</i>, as constituting + the nation, may propose to do the business of the nation, either with or + without the minorities in the Houses of Clergy and Nobles, which side with + them. In that case, if the King should agree to it, the majorities in + those two Houses would secede, and might resist the tax-gatherers. This + would bring on a civil war. On the other hand, the privileged orders, + offering to submit to equal taxation, may propose to the King to continue + the government in its former train, resuming to himself the power of + taxation. Here, the tax-gatherers might be resisted by the people. In + fine, it is but too possible, that between parties so animated, the King + may incline the balance as he pleases. Happy that he is an honest, + unambitious man, who desires neither money nor power for himself; and that + his most operative minister, though he has appeared to trim a little, is + still, in the main, a friend to public liberty. + </p> + <p> + I mentioned to you in a former letter, the construction which our bankers + at Amsterdam had put on the resolution of Congress, appropriating the last + Dutch loan, by which the money for our captives would not be furnished + till the end of the year 1790. Orders from the board of treasury have now + settled this question. The interest of the next month is to be first paid, + and after that, the money for the captives and foreign officers is to be + furnished, before any other payment of interest. This insures it when the + next February interest becomes payable. My representations to them, on + account of the contracts I had entered into for making the medals, have + produced from them the money for that object, which is lodged in the hands + of Mr. Grand. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Necker, in his discourse, proposes among his bonifications of revenue, + the suppression of our two free ports of Bayonne and L’Orient, which, he + says, occasion a loss of six hundred thousand livres annually, to the + crown, by contraband. (The speech being not yet printed, I state this only + as it struck my ear when he delivered it. If I have mistaken it, I beg you + to receive this as my apology, and to consider what follows, as written on + that idea only.) I have never been able to see that these free ports were + worth one copper to us. To Bayonne our trade never went, and it is leaving + L’Orient. Besides, the right of <i>entrepot</i> is a perfect substitute + for the right of free port. The latter is a little less troublesome only, + to the merchants and captains. I should think, therefore, that a thing so + useless to us and prejudicial to them might be relinquished by us, on the + common principles of friendship. I know the merchants of these ports will + make a clamor, because the franchise covers their contraband with all the + world. Has Monsieur de Moustier said any thing to you on this subject? It + has never been mentioned to me. If not mentioned in either way, it is + rather an indecent proceeding, considering that this right of free port is + founded in treaty. I shall ask of M. de Montmorin, on the first occasion, + whether he has communicated this to you through his minister; and if he + has not, I will endeavor to notice the infraction to him in such manner, + as neither to reclaim nor abandon the right of free port, but leave our + government free to do either. + </p> + <p> + The gazettes of France and Leyden, as usual, will accompany this. I am in + hourly expectation of receiving from you my leave of absence, and keep my + affairs so arranged, that I can leave Paris within eight days after + receiving the permission. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect esteem and + respect, Sir, your most obedient and most humble + </p> + <p> + servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0200" id="link2H_4_0200"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CXCIX.—TO GENERAL WASHINGTON, May 10, 1780 + </h2> + <p> + TO GENERAL WASHINGTON. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 10, 1780, + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I am now to acknowledge, the honor of your two letters of November the + 27th and February the 13th, both of which have come to hand since my last + to you of December the 4th and 5th. The details you are so good as to give + me on the subject of the navigation of the waters of the Potomac and Ohio, + are very pleasing to me, as I consider the union of those two rivers, as + among the strongest links of connection between the eastern and western + sides of our confederacy. It will, moreover, add to the commerce of + Virginia, in particular, all the upper parts of the Ohio and its waters. + Another vast object, and of much less difficulty, is to add also, all the + country on the lakes and their waters. This would enlarge our field + immensely, and would certainly be effected by an union of the upper waters + of the Ohio and lake Erie. The Big Beaver and Cayahoga offer the most + direct line, and according to information I received from General Hand, + and which I had the honor of writing you in the year 1783, the streams in + that neighborhood head in lagoons, and the country is flat. With respect + to the doubts which you say are entertained by some, whether the upper + waters of Potomac can be rendered capable of navigation, on account of the + falls and rugged banks, they are answered, by observing, that it is + reduced to a maxim, that whenever there is water enough to float a + batteau, there may be navigation for a batteau. Canals and locks may be + necessary, and they are expensive; but I hardly know what expense would be + too great for the object in question. Probably, negotiation with the + Indians, perhaps even settlement, must precede the execution of the + Cayahoga canal. The States of Maryland and Virginia should make a common + object of it. The navigation, again, between Elizabeth River and the Sound + is of vast importance, and in my opinion, it is much better that these + should be done at public than private expense. + </p> + <p> + Though we have not heard of the actual opening of the new Congress, and + consequently, have not official information of your election as President + of the United States, yet, as there never could be a doubt entertained of + it, permit me to express here my felicitations, not to yourself, but to my + country. Nobody who has tried both public and private life, can doubt but + that you were much happier on the banks of the Potomac than you will be at + New York. But there was nobody so well qualified as yourself, to put our + new machine into a regular course of action; nobody, the authority of + whose name could have so effectually crushed opposition at home, and + produced respect abroad. I am sensible of the immensity of the sacrifice + on your part. Your measure of fame was full to the brim; and therefore, + you have nothing to gain. But there are cases wherein it is a duty to risk + all against nothing, and I believe this was exactly the case. We may + presume, too, according to every rule of probability, that after doing a + great deal of good, you will be found to have lost nothing but private + repose. + </p> + <p> + In a letter to Mr. Jay, of the 19th of November, I asked a leave of + absence to carry my children back to their own country, and to settle + various matters of a private nature, which were left unsettled, because I + had no idea of being absent so long. I expected that letter would have + been received in time to be decided on by the government then existing. I + know now that it would arrive when there was no Congress, and + consequently, that if must have awaited your arrival at New York. I hope + you found the request not an unreasonable one. I am excessively anxious to + receive the permission without delay, that I may be able to get back + before the winter sets in. Nothing can be so dreadful to me, as to be + shivering at sea for two or three months, in a winter passage. Besides, + there has never been a moment at which the presence of a minister here + could be so well dispensed with, from certainty of no war this summer, and + that the government will be so totally absorbed in domestic arrangements, + as to attend to nothing exterior. Mr. Jay will, of course, communicate to + you some ciphered letters lately written, and one of this date. My public + letter to him contains all the interesting public details. I enclose with + the present, some extracts of a letter from Mr. Paine, which he desired me + to communicate: your knowledge of the writer will justify my giving you + the trouble of these communications, which their interesting nature and + his respectability will jointly recommend to notice. I am in great pain + for the Marquis de la Fayette. His principles, you know, are clearly with + the people; but having been elected for the <i>Noblesse</i> of Auvergne, + they have laid him under express instructions to vote for the decision by + orders and not persons. This would ruin him with the <i>Tiers-Etat</i>, + and it is not possible he could continue long to give satisfaction to the + <i>Noblesse</i>. I have not hesitated to press on him to burn his + instructions, and follow his conscience as the only sure clue, which will + eternally guide a man clear of all doubts and inconsistencies. If he + cannot effect a conciliatory plan, he will surely take his stand manfully + at once with the <i>Tiers-Etat</i>. He will in that case be what he + pleases with them, and I am in hopes that base is now too solid to render + it dangerous to be mounted on it. In hopes of being able, in the course of + the summer, to pay my respects to you personally in New York, I have the + honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect respect and attachment, + Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [Extract of the letter from Thomas Paine, referred to in the + preceding, to General Washington.] +</pre> + <p> + ‘London, March the 12th, 1789. I do not think it is worth while for + Congress to appoint any minister at this court. The greater distance + Congress observes on this point, the better. It will be all money thrown + away to go to any expense about it, at least during the present reign. I + know the nation well, and the line of acquaintance I am in enables me to + judge better on this matter than any other American can judge, especially + at a distance. I believe I am not so much in the good graces of the + Marquis of Lansdowne as I used to be. I do not answer his purpose. He was + always talking of a sort of re-connection of England and America, and my + coldness and reserve on this subject checked communication. I believe he + would be a good minister for England, with respect to a better agreement + with France.’ + </p> + <p> + (Same letter continued) ‘April 10. The acts for regulating the trade with + America are to be continued as last year. A paper from the Privy Council + respecting the American fly is before parliament. I had some conversation + with Sir Joseph Banks upon this subject, as he was the person whom the + Privy Council referred to. I told him that the Hessian fly attacked only + the green plant, and did not exist in the dry grain. He said, that with + respect to the Hessian fly they had no apprehension, but it was the weevil + they alluded to. I told him the weevil had always, more or less, been in + the wheat countries of America, and that if the prohibition was on that + account, it was as necessary fifty or sixty years ago as now; that I + believed it was only a political manoeuvre of the ministry to please the + landed interest, as a balance for prohibiting the exportation of wool, to + please the manufacturing interest. He did not reply, and as we are on very + sociable terms, I went farther, by saying, the English ought not to + complain of the non-payment of debts from America, while they prohibit the + means of payment. I suggest to you a thought on this subject. + </p> + <p> + The debts due before the war ought to be distinguished from the debts + contracted since, and all and every mode of payment and remittance under + which they might have been discharged at the time they were contracted, + ought to accompany those debts so long as any of them shall continue + unpaid, because the circumstances of payment became united with the debt, + and cannot be separated by subsequent acts of one side only. If this was + taken up in America, and insisted on as a right coeval with, and + inseparable from those debts, it would force some of the restrictions here + to give way. While writing this, I am informed that the minister has had a + conference with some of the American creditors, and proposed to them to + assume the debts, and give them ten shillings in the pound. The conjecture + is, that he means, when the new Congress is established, to demand the + payment. If you are writing to General Washington, it may not be amiss to + mention this, and if I hear further on this matter, I will inform you. But + as, being a money matter, it cannot come forward but through parliament; + there will be notice given of the business. This would be a proper time to + show that the British acts since the peace militate against the payment, + by narrowing the means by which those debts might have been paid when they + were contracted, and which ought to be considered as constituent parts of + the contract.’ + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0201" id="link2H_4_0201"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CC.—TO JAMES MADISON, May 11,1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO JAMES MADISON. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 11,1789. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + My last to you was of the 15th of March. I am now in hourly expectation of + receiving my leave of absence. The delay of it a little longer will + endanger the throwing my return into the winter, the very idea of which is + horror itself to me. I am in hopes this is the last letter I shall have + the pleasure of writing you before my departure. + </p> + <p> + The madness of the King of England has gone off, but left him in a state + of imbecility and melancholy. They talk of carrying him to Hanover. If + they do, it will be a proof he does not mend, and that they take that + measure, to authorize them to establish a regency. But if he grows better, + they will perhaps keep him at home, to avoid the question, Who shall be + regent? As that country cannot be relied on in the present state of its + executive, the King of Prussia has become more moderate; he throws cold + water on the fermentation he had excited in Poland. The King of Sweden + will act as nobody, not even himself, can foresee; because he acts from + the caprice of the moment, and because the discontents of his army and + nobles may throw him under internal difficulties, while struggling with + external ones. Denmark will probably only furnish its stipulated aid to + Russia. France is fully occupied with internal arrangements. So that, on + the whole, the prospect of this summer is, that the war will continue + between the powers actually engaged in the close of the last campaign, and + extend to no others; certainly it will not extend, this year, to the + southern States of Europe. The revolution of France has gone on with the + most unexampled success, hitherto. There have been some mobs, occasioned + by the want of bread, in different parts of the kingdom, in which there + may have been some lives lost; perhaps a dozen or twenty. These had no + professed connection, generally, with the constitutional revolution. A + more serious riot happened lately in Paris, in which about one hundred of + the mob were killed. This execution has been universally approved, as they + seemed to have no view but mischief and plunder. But the meeting of the + States General presents serious difficulties, which it had been hoped the + progress of reason would have enabled them to get over. The nobility of + and about Paris have come over, as was expected, to the side of the + people, in the great question of voting by persons or orders. This had + induced a presumption, that those of the country were making the same + progress, and these form the great mass of the deputies of that order. But + they are found to be where they were centuries ago, as to their + disposition to keep distinct from the people, and even to tyrannize over + them. They agree, indeed, to abandon their pecuniary privileges. The + clergy seem at present much divided. Five-sixths of that representation + consists of the lower clergy, who, being the sons of the peasantry, are + very well with the <i>Tiers-Etat</i>. But the Bishops are intriguing, and + drawing them over daily. The <i>Tiers-Etat</i> is so firm to vote by + persons or to go home, that it is impossible to conjecture what will be + the result. This is the state of parties, as well as we can conjecture + from the conversation of the members; for as yet no vote has been given, + which will enable us to calculate on certain ground. + </p> + <p> + Having formerly written to you on the subject of our finances, I enclose + you now an abstract of a paper on that subject, which Gouverneur Morris + communicated to me. You will be a better judge of its merit than I am. It + seems to me worthy good attention. + </p> + <p> + I have a box of books packed for you, which I shall carry to Havre, and + send by any ship bound to New York or Philadelphia. I have been so + inexact, as to take no list of them before nailing up the box. Be so good + as to do this, and I will take with me my bookseller’s account, which will + enable us to make a statement of them. They are chiefly <i>EncyclopĂ©dies</i>, + from the 23rd to the 30th <i>livraison</i>. Paul Jones has desired me to + send to yourself and Colonel Carrington each, his bust. They are packed + together in the same box. There are three other boxes, with two in each, + for other gentlemen. I shall send them all together, and take the liberty + of addressing them to you. I rejoice extremely to hear you are elected, in + spite of all cabals. I fear your post will not permit me to see you but in + New York, and consequently for a short time only. I shall much regret + this. + </p> + <p> + I am, with sentiments of sincere attachment and respect, Dear Sir, your + friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0202" id="link2H_4_0202"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CCI.—TO MONSIEUR DE PONTIERE, May 17, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO MONSIEUR DE PONTIERE. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 17, 1789. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I am honored with your letter of the 6th instant, and am sincerely sorry + that you should experience inconveniences for the want of the arrearages + due to you from the United States. I have never ceased to take every + measure, which could promise to procure to the foreign officers the + payment of these arrears. At present the matter stands thus. Congress have + agreed to borrow a sum of money in Holland, to enable them to pay the + individual demands in Europe. They have given orders that these arrearages + shall be paid out of this money, when borrowed, and certain bankers in + Amsterdam are charged to borrow the money. I am myself of opinion, they + will certainly procure the money in the course of the present year; but it + is not for me to affirm this, nor to make any engagement. The moment the + money is ready, it shall be made known to Colonel Gourion, who, at the + desire of many of the officers, has undertaken to communicate with me on + the subject, and to inform them, from time to time, of the progress of + this business. He will readily answer your letters on this subject. I + depart in a few days for America, but shall leave such instructions here, + as that this matter will suffer no delay on that account. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be. Sir, your most obedient, humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0203" id="link2H_4_0203"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CCII.—TO MR. VAUGHAN, May 17, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO MR. VAUGHAN. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 17, 1789. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I am to acknowledge, all together, the receipt of your favors of March the + 17th, 26th, and May the 7th, and to return you abundant thanks for your + attention to the article of dry rice, and the parcel of seeds you sent me. + This is interesting, because, even should it not take place of the wet + rice, in South Carolina, it will enable us to cultivate this grain in + Virginia, where we have not lands disposed for the wet rice. The + collection of the works of Monsieur de Poivre has not, as I believe, been + ever published. It could hardly have escaped my knowledge, if they had + been ever announced. The French translation of the book on trade has not + yet come to my hands. Whenever I receive the copies, they shall be + distributed, and principally among the members of the <i>Etats Generaux</i>. + I doubt whether, at this session, they will take up the subject of + commerce. Whenever they do, they will find better principles no where than + in that book. I spoke with Mr. Stewart yesterday on the subject of the + distribution, and if I should be gone before the books come to hand, he + will execute the commission. Your nation is very far from the liberality + that treatise inculcates. The proposed regulation on the subject of our + wheat is one proof. The prohibition of it in England would, of itself, be + of no great moment, because I do not know that it is much sent there. But + it is the publishing a libel on our wheat, sanctioned with the name of + parliament, and which can have no object but to do us injury, by spreading + a groundless alarm in those countries of Europe where our wheat is + constantly and kindly received. It is a mere assassination. If the insect + they pretend to fear, be the Hessian fly, it never existed in the grain. + If it be the weevil, our grain always had that; and the experience of a + century has proved, that either the climate of England is not warm enough + to hatch the egg and continue the race, or that some other unknown cause + prevents any evil from it. How different from this spirit, my dear Sir, + has been your readiness to help us to the dry rice, to communicate to us + the bread tree, &tc. Will any of our climates admit the cultivation of + the latter? I am too little acquainted with it to judge. I learn that your + newspapers speak of the death of Ledyard, at Grand Cairo. I am anxious to + know whether there be foundation for this. I have not yet had time to try + the execution of the wood hygrometer proposed by Dr. Franklin. Though I + have most of the articles ready made, I doubt now whether I shall be able + to do it before my departure for America, the permission for which I + expect every hour; and I shall go off the instant I receive it. While + there, I shall have the pleasure of seeing your father and friends. I + expect to return in the fall. + </p> + <p> + In the mean time, I have the honor to be, with very great esteem and + respect, Dear Sir, your most obedient, humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0204" id="link2H_4_0204"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CCIII.—TO THOMAS PAINE, May 19,1789 + </h2> + <h3> + TO THOMAS PAINE. + </h3> + <p> + Paris, May 19,1789. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Your favors of February the 16th to April the 13th, and of May the 3rd and + 10th, are received; and the two last are sent to Mr. Leroy, who will + communicate them to the Academy. + </p> + <p> + You know that the States General have met, and probably have seen the + speeches at the opening of them. The three orders sit in distinct + chambers. The great question, whether they shall vote by orders or persons + can never be surmounted amicably. It has not yet been proposed in form; + but the votes which have been taken on the outworks of that question show, + that the <i>Tiers-Etat</i> are unanimous, a good majority of the Clergy + (consisting of the <i>CurĂ©s</i>) disposed to side with the <i>Tiers-Etat</i>, + and in the chamber of the <i>Noblesse</i> there are only fifty-four in + that sentiment, against one hundred and ninety, who are for voting by + orders. Committees to find means of conciliation are appointed by each + chamber; but conciliation is impossible. Some think the Nobles could be + induced to unite themselves with the higher Clergy into one House, the + lower Clergy and <i>Tiers-Etat</i> forming another. But the <i>Tiers-Etat</i> + are immovable. They are not only firm, but a little disdainful. The + question is, what will ensue? One idea is to separate, in order to consult + again their constituents, and to take new instructions. This would be + doing nothing, for the same instructions would be repeated; and what, in + the mean time, is to become of a government absolutely without money, and + which cannot be kept in motion with less than a million of livres a day? + The more probable expectation is as follows. As soon as it shall become + evident, that no amicable determination of the manner of voting can take + place, the <i>Tiers-Etat</i> will send an invitation to the two other + orders, to come and take their places in the common chamber. A majority of + the Clergy will go, and the minority of the Noblesse. The chamber thus + composed, will declare that the States General are constituted, will + notify it to the King, and that they are ready to proceed to business. If + the King refuses to do business with them, and adheres to the Nobles, the + common chamber will declare all taxes at an end, will form a declaration + of rights, and do such other acts as the circumstances will permit, and go + home. The tax-gatherers will then be resisted, and it may well be doubted + whether the soldiery and their officers will not divide, as the <i>Tiers-Etat</i> + and Nobles. But it is more likely that the King will agree to do business + with the States General, so constituted, professing that the necessities + of the moment force this, and that he means to negotiate (as they go + along) a reconciliation between the seceding members, and those which + remain. If the matter takes this turn, there may be small troubles and + ebullitions excited by the seceding <i>Noblesse</i> and higher Clergy; but + no serious difficulty can arise. M. de Lamoignon, the <i>Garde des Sceaux</i> + of the last year, has shot himself. The Emperor’s complaint is pulmonary, + and incurable. The Grand Seignior is dead; his successor, young and + warlike. I congratulate you sincerely on the success of your bridge. I was + sure of it before from theory: yet one likes to be assured from practice + also. I am anxious to see how Mr. Rumsey’s experiment succeeds. + </p> + <p> + May the 21st. I have this moment received a letter from Ledyard, dated + Cairo, November the 15th. He therein says, ‘I am doing up my baggage, and + most curious baggage it is, and I leave Cairo in two or three days. I + travel from hence southwest, about three hundred leagues, to a black King: + there my present conductors leave me to my fate. Beyond, I suppose, I go + alone. I expect to hit the continent across, between the parallels of + twelve and twenty degrees north latitude. I shall, if possible, write you + from the kingdom of this black gentleman.’ This seems to contradict the + story of his having died at Cairo, in January, as he was then, probably, + in the interior parts of Africa. If Sir Joseph Banks has no news from him + later than the letter of September, it may do him pleasure, if you will + communicate the above. If he or any other person knows whether there is + any foundation for the story of his death, I will thank you to inform me + of it. My letter being to go off to-morrow, I shall only add assurances of + the esteem and respect, with which I am, Dear Sir, your friend and + servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0205" id="link2H_4_0205"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CCIV.—TO MONSIEUR DE ST. ETIENNE, June 3, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO MONSIEUR DE ST. ETIENNE. + </p> + <p> + Paris, June 3, 1789. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + After you quitted us yesterday evening, we continued our conversation + (Monsieur de la Fayette, Mr. Short, and myself) on the subject of the + difficulties which environ you. The desirable object being to secure the + good which the King has offered, and to avoid the ill which seems to + threaten, an idea was suggested, which appearing to make an impression on + Monsieur de la Fayette, I was encouraged to pursue it on my return to + Paris, to put it into form, and now to send it to you and him. It is this; + that the King, in a <i>seance royale</i>, should come forward with a + Charter of Rights in his hand, to be signed by himself and by every member + of the three orders. This charter to contain the five great points which + the <i>Resultat</i> of December offered on the part of the King; the + abolition of pecuniary privileges offered by the privileged orders, and + the adoption of the national debt, and a grant of the sum of money asked + from the nation. This last will be a cheap price for the preceding + articles; and let the same act declare your immediate separation till the + next anniversary meeting. You will carry back to your constituents more + good than ever was effected before without violence, and you will stop + exactly at the point where violence would otherwise begin. Time will be + gained, the public mind will continue to ripen and to be informed, a basis + of support may be prepared with the people themselves, and expedients + occur for gaining still something further at your next meeting, and for + stopping again at the point of force. I have ventured to send yourself and + Monsieur de la Fayette a sketch of my ideas of what this act might + contain, without endangering any dispute. But it is offered merely as a + canvass for you to work on, if it be fit to work on at all. I know too + little of the subject, and you know too much of it, to justify me in + offering any thing but a hint. I have done it, too, in a hurry: insomuch, + that since committing it to writing, it occurs to me that the fifth + article may give alarm; that it is in a good degree included in the + fourth, and is, therefore, useless. But after all, what excuse can I make, + Sir, for this presumption. I have none but an unmeasurable love for your + nation, and a painful anxiety lest despotism, after an unaccepted offer to + bind its own hands, should seize you again with tenfold fury. Permit me to + add to these, very sincere assurances of the sentiments of esteem and + respect, with which I have the honor to be, Sir, your most obedient and + most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [The annexed is the Charter accompanying the preceding letter.] +</pre> + <p> + A Charter of Rights, solemnly established by the King and Nation. + </p> + <p> + 1. The States General shall assemble, uncalled, on the first day of + November, annually, and shall remain together so long as they shall see + cause. They shall regulate their own elections and proceedings, and until + they shall ordain otherwise, their elections shall be in the forms + observed in the present year, and shall be triennial. + </p> + <p> + 2. The States General alone shall levy money on the nation, and shall + appropriate it. + </p> + <p> + 3. Laws shall be made by the States General only, with the consent of the + King. + </p> + <p> + 4. No person shall be restrained of his liberty, but by regular process + from a court of justice, authorized by a general law. (Except that a Noble + may be imprisoned by order of a court of justice, on the prayer of twelve + of his nearest relations.) On complaint of an unlawful imprisonment, to + any judge whatever, he shall have the prisoner immediately brought before + him, and shall discharge him, if his imprisonment be unlawful. The + officer, in whose custody the prisoner is, shall obey the orders of the + judge; and both judge and officer shall be responsible, civilly and + criminally, for a failure of duty herein. + </p> + <p> + 5. The military shall be subordinate to the civil authority. + </p> + <p> + 7. Printers shall be liable to legal prosecution for printing and + publishing false facts, injurious to the party prosecuting; but they shall + be under no other restraint. + </p> + <p> + 7. All pecuniary privileges and exemptions, enjoyed by any description of + persons, are abolished. + </p> + <p> + 8. All debts already contracted by the King, are hereby made the debts of + the nation; and the faith thereof is pledged for their payment in due + time. + </p> + <p> + 9. Eighty millions of livres are now granted to the King, to be raised by + loan, and reimbursed by the nation: and the taxes heretofore paid, shall + continue to be paid to the end of the present year, and no longer. + </p> + <p> + 10. The States General shall now separate, and meet again on the 1st day + of November next. + </p> + <p> + Done, on behalf of the whole nation, by the King and their representatives + in the States General, at Versailles, this ——— day of + June, 1789. + </p> + <p> + Signed by the King, and by every member individually, and in his presence. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0206" id="link2H_4_0206"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CCV.—TO THE MARQUIS DE LA FAYETTE, June 12, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO THE MARQUIS DE LA FAYETTE. + </p> + <p> + Paris, June 12, 1789. + </p> + <p> + My Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + As I may not be able to get at you at Versailles, I write this to deliver + it myself at your door. With respect to the utility or inutility of your + minority’s joining the Commons, I am unable to form an opinion for myself. + I know too little of the subject to see what may be its consequences. + </p> + <p> + I never knew an instance of the English parliament’s undertaking to + relieve the poor by a distribution of bread in time of scarcity. In fact, + the English commerce is so extensive and so active, that though bread may + be a little more or less plenty, there can never be an absolute failure. + The island is so narrow, that corn can be readily carried from the + sea-ports to its interior parts. But were an absolute want to happen, and + were the parliament to undertake a distribution of corn, I think, that + according to the principles of their government, they would only vote a + sum of money, and address the King to employ it for the best. The business + is, in its nature, executive, and would require too great a variety of + detail to be managed by an act of parliament. However, I repeat it, that I + never heard or read of an instance of the parliament’s interfering to give + bread. If I see you at Versailles to-day, I can be more particular. + </p> + <p> + I am with great sincerity, my dear Sir, your affectionate friend and + servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson, + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0207" id="link2H_4_0207"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CCVI.—TO JOHN JAY, June 17, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Sir + </p> + <p> + Paris, June 17, 1789. + </p> + <p> + I had the honor of addressing you on the 9th and 12th of May, by the way + of London. This goes through the same channel to the care of Mr. Trumbull. + Having received no letter from you of later date than the 25th of + November, I am apprehensive that there may have been miscarriages, and the + more so, as I learn, through another channel, that you have particularly + answered mine of November the 19th. + </p> + <p> + The death of the Grand Seignior, which has happened, renders the + continuance of the war more probable, as it has brought to the throne a + successor of a more active and ardent temper, and who means to put himself + at the head of his armies. He has declared the Captain Pacha his + Generalissimo. The prospects for Russia, on the other hand, are less + encouraging. Her principal ally, the Emperor, is at death’s door, blazing + up a little indeed, from time to time like an expiring taper, but + certainly to extinguish soon. Denmark, too, is likely to be restrained by + the threats of England and Prussia, from contributing even her stipulated + naval succors. It is some time since I have been able to obtain any + account of the King of England, on which I can rely with confidence. His + melancholy continues, and to such a degree, as to render him absolutely + indifferent to every thing that passes, so that he seems willing to let + his ministers do every thing they please, provided they will let him + alone. When forced to speak, his comprehension seems better than it was in + the first moments after his phrensy went off. His health is bad: he does + not go into public at all, and very few are admitted to see him. This is + his present state, according to the best accounts I have been able to get + lately. His ministers dictate boldly in the north, because they know it is + impossible they should be engaged in the war, while this country is so + completely palsied. + </p> + <p> + You will have seen by my former letters, that the question, whether the + States General should vote by persons or by orders, had stopped their + proceedings in the very first instance in which it could occur, that is, + as to the verification of their powers, and that they had appointed + committees to try if there were any means of accommodation. These could do + nothing. The King then proposed that they should appoint others, to meet + persons whom he should name, on the same subject. These conferences also + proved ineffectual. He then proposed a specific mode of verifying. The + clergy accepted it unconditionally; the <i>Noblesse</i>, with such + conditions and modifications, as did away their acceptance altogether. The + Commons, considering this as a refusal, came to the resolution of the 10th + instant (which I have the honor to send you), inviting the two other + orders to come and take their places in the common room, and notifying + that they should proceed to the verification of powers, and to the affairs + of the nation, either with or without them. The Clergy have, as yet, given + no answer. A few of their members have accepted the invitation of the + Commons, and have presented themselves in their room, to have their powers + verified; but how many it will detach, in the whole, from that body, + cannot be known till an answer be decided on. The <i>Noblesse</i> adhered + to their former resolutions, and even the minority, well disposed to the + Commons, thought they could do more good in their own chamber, by + endeavoring to increase their numbers and fettering the measures of the + majority, than by joining the Commons. An intrigue was set on foot, + between the leaders of the majority in that House, the Queen, and Princes. + They persuaded the King to go for some time to Marly: he went. On the same + day, the leaders moved in the chamber of Nobles, that they should address + the King, to declare his own sentiments on the great question between the + orders. It was intended that this address should be delivered to him at + Marly, where, separated from his ministers, and surrounded by the Queen + and Princes, he might be surprised into a declaration for the Nobles. The + motion was lost, however, by a very great majority, that chamber being not + yet quite ripe for throwing themselves into the arms of despotism. Necker + and Montmorin, who had discovered this intrigue, had warned some of the + minority to defeat it, or they could not answer for what would happen. + These two and St. Priest, are the only members of the Council in favor of + the Commons. Luzerne, Puy-Segur, and the others, are high aristocrats. The + Commons having verified their powers, a motion was made the day before + yesterday, to declare themselves constituted, and to proceed to business. + I left them at two o’clock yesterday; the debates not then finished. They + differed only about forms of expression, but agreed in the substance, and + probably decided yesterday, or will decide to-day. Their next move, I + fancy, will be to suppress all taxes, and instantly re-establish them till + the end of their session, in order to prevent a premature dissolution: and + then they will go to work on a declaration of rights and a constitution. + The <i>Noblesse</i>, I suppose, will be employed altogether in counter + operations; the Clergy, that is to say, the higher Clergy, and such of the + <i>CurĂ©s</i> as they can bring over to their side, will be waiting and + watching, merely to keep themselves in their saddles. Their deportment, + hitherto, is that of meekness and cunning. The fate of the nation depends + on the conduct of the King and his ministers. Were they to side openly + with the Commons, the revolution would be completed without a convulsion, + by the establishment of a constitution, tolerably free, and in which the + distinction of Noble and Commoner would be suppressed. But this is + scarcely possible. The King is honest, and wishes the good of his people; + but the expediency of an hereditary aristocracy is too difficult a + question for him. On the contrary, his prejudices, his habits, and his + connections decide him in his heart to support it. Should they decide + openly for the <i>Noblesse</i>, the Commons, after suppressing taxes, and + finishing their declaration of rights, would probably go home; a + bankruptcy takes place in the instant, Mr. Necker must go out, a + resistance to the tax-gatherers follows, and probably a civil war. These + consequences are too evident and violent, to render this issue likely. + Though the Queen and Princes are infatuated enough to hazard it, the party + in the ministry would not. Something, therefore, like what I hinted in my + letter of May the 12th, is still the most likely to take place. While the + Commons, either with or without their friends of the other two Houses, + shall be employed in framing a constitution, perhaps the government may + set the other two Houses to work on the same subject: and when the three + schemes shall be ready, joint committees may be negotiated, to compare + them together, to see in what parts they agree; and probably they will + agree in all, except the organization of the future States General. As to + this, it may be endeavored, by the aid of wheedling and intimidation, to + induce the two privileged chambers to melt themselves into one, and the + Commons, instead of one, to agree to two Houses of legislation. I see no + other middle ground to which they can be brought. + </p> + <p> + It is a tremendous cloud, indeed, which hovers over this nation, and he at + the helm has neither the courage nor the skill necessary to weather it. + Eloquence in a high degree, knowledge in matters of account, and order, + are distinguishing traits in his character. Ambition is his first passion, + virtue his second. He has not discovered that sublime truth, that a bold, + unequivocal virtue is the best handmaid even to ambition, and would carry + him further, in the end, than the temporizing, wavering policy he pursues. + His judgment is not of the first order, scarcely even of the second; his + resolution frail; and upon the whole, it is rare to meet an instance of a + person so much below the reputation he has obtained. As this character, by + the post and times in which Providence has placed it, is important to be + known, I send it to you as drawn by a person of my acquaintance, who knows + him well. He is not, indeed, his friend, and allowance must, therefore, be + made for the high coloring. But this being abated, the facts and + groundwork of the drawing are just. If the <i>Tiers</i> separate, he goes + at the same time; if they stay together, and succeed in establishing a + constitution to their mind, as soon as that is placed in safety, they will + abandon him to the mercy of the court, unless he can recover the + confidence which he has lost at present, and which, indeed, seems to be + irrecoverable. + </p> + <p> + The inhabitants of St. Domingo, without the permission of the government, + have chosen and sent deputies to the States General. The question of their + admission is to be discussed by the States. In the mean time, the + government had promised them an Assembly in their own Island, in the + course of the present year. The death of the Dauphin, so long expected, + has at length happened. Montmorin told Ternant the other day, that De + Moustier had now asked a <i>congĂ©</i>, which would be sent him + immediately. So that unless a change of ministry should happen, he will, + probably, be otherwise disposed of. The gazettes of France and Leyden + accompany this. I have the honor to be, with the most perfect esteem and + respect, Sir, your most obedient, humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + P. S. June 18. The motion under debate with the Commons, for constituting + their Assembly, passed yesterday by a majority of four hundred and odd, + against eighty odd. The latter were for it in substance, but wished some + particular amendment. They proceeded instantly to the subject of taxation. + A member who called on me this moment, gave me a state of the proceedings + of yesterday, from memory, which I enclose you. He left the House a little + before the question was put, because he saw there was no doubt of its + passing, and his brother, who remained till the decision, informed him of + it. So that we may expect, perhaps, in the course of to-morrow, to see + whether the government will interpose with a bold hand, or will begin a + negotiation. But in the mean time, this letter must go off. I will find + some other opportunity, however, of informing you of the issue. T. J. + </p> + <p> + ^^^ [Character of Mr. Necker, accompanying the preceding letter.] + </p> + <p> + Nature bestowed on Mr. Necker an ardent passion for glory, without, at the + same time, granting him those qualities required for its pursuit by direct + means. The union of a fruitful imagination with a limited talent, with + which she has endowed him, is always incompatible with those faculties of + the mind which qualify their possessor to penetrate, to combine, and to + comprehend all the relations of objects. + </p> + <p> + He had probably learned in Geneva, his native country, the influence which + riches exercise on the success of ambition, without having recourse to the + school of Paris, where he arrived about the twenty-eighth year of his age. + A personal affair with his brother, in which the chiefs of the republic + conducted themselves unjustly towards him, the circumstances of which, + moreover, exposed him to ridicule, determined him to forsake his country. + On taking his leave, he assured his mother that he would make a great + fortune at Paris. On his arrival, he engaged himself as clerk, at a salary + of six hundred livres, with the banker Thelusson, a man of extreme + harshness in his intercourse with his dependants. The same cause which + obliged other clerks to abandon the service of Thelusson, determined + Necker to continue in it. By submitting to the brutality of his master + with a servile resignation, whilst, at the same time, he devoted the most + unremitting attention to his business, he recommended himself to his + confidence, and was taken into partnership. Ordinary abilities only were + requisite to avail him of the multitude of favorable circumstances, which, + before he entered into the administration, built up a fortune of six + millions of livres. He owed much of his good fortune to his connections + with the Abbe Terrai, of whose ignorance he did not scruple to profit. His + riches, his profession, his table, and a virtuous, reasonable, and well + informed wife, procured him the acquaintance of many persons of + distinction, among whom were many men of letters, who celebrated his + knowledge and wisdom. + </p> + <p> + The wise and just principles by which Turgot aimed to correct the Abuses + of the administration, not having been received with favor, he seized the + occasion to flatter ignorance and malignity, by publishing his work + against the freedom of the corn trade. + </p> + <p> + He had published, two years before, an eulogy on Colbert. Both these + productions exhibited the limited capacity of a banker, and, in no degree, + the enlarged views of a statesman. Not at all delicate in the choice of + his means, he succeeded to his wish in his object, which was the + establishing himself in public opinion. Elevated by a secret cabal to the + direction of the finances, he began by refusing the salaries of his + office. He affected a spirit of economy and austerity, which imposed even + on foreign nations, and showed the possibility of making war without + laying new taxes. Such at least was his boast; but, in reality, they have + been increased under his administration, about twenty millions, partly by + a secret augmentation of the bailies and of the poll-tax, partly by some + verifications of the twentieths, and partly by the natural progression, + which is tested by the amount of taxes on consumption, the necessary + result of the successive increase of population, of riches, and of + expensive tastes. + </p> + <p> + All these circumstances reared for him an astonishing reputation, which + his fall has consecrated. People will not reflect, that, in the short + period of his ministry, he had more than doubled his fortune. Not that he + had peculated on the public treasury; his good sense and pride forbade a + resort to this manoeuvre of weak minds; but by resorting to loans and the + costly operations of the bank, to provide the funds of war, and being + still connected with the house to which he addressed himself for much the + greater part of his negotiations. They have not remarked that his great + principles of economy have nothing more than a false show, and that the + loans resorted to, in order to avoid the imposition of taxes, have been + the source of the mischief which has reduced the finances to their present + alarming condition. + </p> + <p> + As to his <i>compte rendu</i>; he has been forgiven the nauseous panegyric + which he has passed upon himself, and the affectation of introducing his + wife into it, for the purpose of praising her; and we are spared the + trouble of examining his false calculations. M. de Calonne has undertaken + this investigation. Without being able to vindicate himself, he has + already begun to unmask his antagonist, and he promises to do it + effectually. + </p> + <p> + Necessity has recalled this man to the ministry: and it must be confessed, + that he is beyond comparison a less mischievous minister than his + predecessors. I would compare him to a steward, who, by his management, + does not entirely ruin his master, but who enriches himself at his + expense. The desire of glory should inspire him as much as possible with + the energy requisite for the public business. There is every likelihood + that his ministry will not endure long enough, to cause it to feel the + effects of his false principles of administration: and it is he alone who + is able, if any one can, to preserve order in the finances, until the + reform is effected which we hope from the assembling of the States + General. In the mean time, the public estimation of his talents and virtue + is not so high as it has been. There are persons who pretend that he is + more firmly established in public opinion than he ever was. They deceive + themselves. The ambitious desire he has always manifested of getting again + into the administration, his work on the Importance of Religious Opinions, + and the Memoires of M. de Calonne, have greatly impaired his reputation. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0208" id="link2H_4_0208"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CCVII.—TO JAMES MADISON, June 18, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO JAMES MADISON. + </p> + <p> + Paris, June 18, 1789. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + My last to you was of May the 11th. Yours of March the 29th came to hand + ten days ago; and about two days ago, I received a cover of your + hand-writing, under which were a New York paper of May the 4th, and a + letter from Mr. Page to Mazzei. There being no letter from you, makes me + hope there is one on the way, which will inform me of my <i>congĂ©</i>. I + have never received Mr. Jay’s answer to my public letter of November the + 19th, which you mention him to have written, and which I fear has been + intercepted. I know only from you, that my letter got safe to hand. My + baggage has been made up more than a month, so that I shall leave Paris + almost in the instant of receiving the permission. + </p> + <p> + The campaign begins under unfavorable auspices for Russia. The death of + the Grand Seignior, who was personally disposed for peace, has brought a + young and ardent successor to the throne, determined to push the war to + extremity. Her only ally, the Emperor, is <i>in articulo mortis</i>, and + the grand Duke of Tuscany, should he succeed, loves peace and money. + Denmark is forbidden by England and Prussia to furnish even its stipulated + maritime aid. There is no appearance of any other power’s engaging in the + war. As far as I can discover, the King of England is somewhat better in + his head, but under such a complete depression of spirits, that he does + not care how the world goes, and leaves his ministers to do as they + please. It is impossible for you to conceive how difficult it is to know + the truth relative to him, he is environed in such an atmosphere of lies. + Men who would not speak a falsehood on any other subject, lie on this, + from a principle of duty; so that even eye-witnesses cannot be believed + without scanning their principles and connections; and few will stand + this, of the very few permitted to see him. + </p> + <p> + Committees of conciliation having failed in their endeavors to bring + together the three chambers of the States General, the King proposed a + specific mode of verifying their powers; for that having been the first + question which presented itself to them, was the one in which the question + of voting by persons or orders was first brought on. The clergy accepted + unconditionally. The <i>Noblesse</i> accepted on conditions which reduced + the acceptance to nothing at all. The Commons considered this as a refusal + on the part of the Nobles, and thereupon took their definitive resolution, + to invite the other two orders to come and verify their powers in common, + and to notify them they should proceed with or without them to verify, and + to do the business of the nation. This was on the 10th. On the 15th, they + moved to declare themselves the National Assembly. The debates on this + were finished yesterday, when the proposition was agreed to, by four + hundred and odd, against eighty odd. The minority agreed in substance, but + wished some particular amendment. They then immediately made the + proposition relative to taxes, which I enclose you, as this moment stated + to me, by memory, by a member who left the Assembly a little before the + question, because there was no opposition to the matter, but only to the + form. He assures me, on the information of another member who was present, + that Target’s motion passed. We shall know, I think, within a day or two, + whether the government will risk a bankruptcy and civil war, rather than + see all distinction of orders done way, which is what the Commons will + push for. If the fear of the former alternative prevails, they will spin + the matter into negotiation. The Commons have in their chamber almost all + the talents of the nation; they are firm and bold, yet moderate. There is + indeed, among them, a number of very hot-headed members; but those of most + influence are cool, temperate, and sagacious. Every step of this House has + been marked with caution and wisdom. The <i>Noblesse</i>, on the contrary, + are absolutely out of their senses. They are so furious, they can seldom + debate at all. They have few men of moderate talents, and not one of + great, in the majority. Their proceedings have been very injudicious. The + Clergy are waiting to profit of every incident to secure themselves, and + have no other object in view. Among the Commons, there is an entire + unanimity on the great question of voting by persons. Among the <i>Noblesse</i>, + there are about sixty for the Commons, and about three times that number + against them. Among the Clergy, about twenty have already come over and + joined the Commons, and in the course of a few days, they will be joined + by many more, not indeed making the majority of that House, but very near + it. The Bishops and Archbishops have been very successful by bribes and + intrigues, in detaching the <i>CurĂ©s</i> from the Commons, to whom they + were at first attached to a man. The Commons are about, five hundred and + fifty-four in number, of whom three hundred and forty-four are of the Jaw. + These do not possess an influence founded in property; but in their habits + of business and acquaintance with the people, and in their means of + exciting them as they please. The <i>CurĂ©s</i>, throughout the kingdom, + form the mass of the Clergy; they are the only part favorably known to the + people, because solely charged with the duties of baptism, burial, + confession, visitation of the sick, instruction of the children, and + aiding the poor; they are themselves of the people, and united with them. + The carriages and equipage only of the higher Clergy, not their persons, + are known to the people, and are in detestation with them. The soldiers + will follow their officers, that is to say, their captains, lieutenants, + and ensigns. These are of the lower nobility, and therefore much divided. + The colonels and higher officers are of the higher nobility, are seldom + with the soldiers, little known to them, not possessing their attachment. + These circumstances give them little weight in the partition of the army. + </p> + <p> + I give you these miscellaneous observations, that knowing somewhat the + dispositions of the parties, you may be able to judge of the future for + yourself, as I shall not be here to continue its communication to you. + </p> + <p> + In hopes to see you soon, I conclude with assurances of the perfect esteem + and respect, with which I am, Dear Sir, your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0209" id="link2H_4_0209"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CCVIII.—TO JOHN JAY, June 24,1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + Paris, June 24,1789. + </p> + <p> + My letter of the 17th and 18th instant gave you the progress of the States + General to the 17th, when the <i>Tiers</i> had declared the illegality of + all the existing taxes, and their discontinuance from the end of their + present session. The next day, being a <i>jour de fete</i>, could furnish + no indication of the impression that vote was likely to make on the + government. On the 19th, a Council was held at Marly, in the afternoon. It + was there proposed, that the King should interpose by a declaration of his + sentiments in a <i>seance royale</i>. The declaration prepared by M. + Necker, while it censured, in general, the proceedings both of the Nobles + and Commons, announced the King’s views, such as substantially to coincide + with the Commons. It was agreed to in Council, as also that the <i>seance + royale</i> should be held on the 22nd, and the meetings till then be + suspended. While the Council was engaged in this deliberation at Marly, + the chamber of the Clergy was in debate, whether they should accept the + invitation of the <i>Tiers</i> to unite with them in the common chamber. + On the first question, to unite simply and unconditionally, it was decided + in the negative by a very small majority. As it was known however, that + some members who had voted in the negative, would be for the affirmative, + with some modifications, the question was put with these modifications, + and it was determined by a majority of eleven members, that their body + should join the <i>Tiers</i>. These proceedings of the Clergy were unknown + to the Council at Marly, and those of the Council were kept secret from + every body. The next morning (the 20th), the members repaired to the House + as usual, found the doors shut and guarded, and a proclamation posted up + for holding a <i>seance royale</i> on the 22nd, and a suspension of their + meetings till then. They presumed, in the first moment, that their + dissolution was decided, and repaired to another place, where they + proceeded to business. They there bound themselves to each other by an + oath, never to separate of their own accord, till they had settled a + constitution for the nation on a solid basis, and if separated by force, + that they would re-assemble in some other place. It was intimated to them, + however, that day, privately, that the proceedings of the <i>seance royale</i> + would be favorable to them. The next day they met in a church, and were + joined by a majority of the Clergy. The heads of the aristocracy saw that + all was lost without some violent exertion. The King was still at Marly. + Nobody was permitted to approach him but their friends. He was assailed by + lies in all shapes. He was made to believe that the Commons were going to + absolve the army from their oath of fidelity to him, and to raise their + pay. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + They procured a committee to be held, consisting of the King and his + ministers, to which Monsieur and the Count d’Artois should be admitted. At + this committee, the latter attacked Mr. Necker personally, arraigned his + plans, and proposed one which some of his engines had put into his hands. + Mr. Necker, whose characteristic is the want of firmness, was browbeaten + and intimidated, and the King shaken. He determined that the two plans + should be deliberated on the next day, and the <i>seance royale</i> put + off a day longer. This encouraged a fiercer attack on Mr. Necker the next + day; his plan was totally dislocated, and that of the Count d’Artois + inserted into it. Himself and Monsieur de Montmorin offered their + resignation, which was refused; the Count d’Artois saying to Mr. Necker, + ‘No, Sir, you must be kept as the hostage; we hold you responsible for all + the ill which shall happen.’ This change of plan was immediately whispered + without doors. The nobility were in triumph, the people in consternation. + When the King passed, the next day, through the lane they formed from the + Chateau to the <i>Hotel des Etats</i> (about half a mile), there was a + dead silence. He was about an hour in the House, delivering his speech and + declaration, copies of which I enclose you. On his coming out, a feeble + cry of ‘Vive le Roy’ was raised by some children, but the people remained + silent and sullen. When the Duke d’Orleans followed, however, their + applauses were excessive. This must have been sensible to the King. He had + ordered, in the close of his speech, that the members should follow him, + and resume their deliberations the next day. The <i>Noblesse</i> followed + him, and so did the Clergy, except about thirty, who, with the <i>Tiers</i>, + remained in the room and entered into deliberation. They protested against + what the King had done, adhered to all their former proceedings, and + resolved the inviolability of their own persons. An officer came twice to + order them out of the room, in the King’s name, but they refused to obey. + In the afternoon, the people, uneasy, began to assemble in great numbers + in the courts and vicinities of the palace. The Queen was alarmed, and + sent for Mr. Necker. He was conducted amidst the shouts and acclamations + of the multitude, who filled all the apartments of the palace. He was a + few minutes only with the Queen, and about three quarters of an hour with + the King. Not a word has transpired of what passed at these interviews. + The King was just going to ride out. He passed through the crowd to his + carriage, and into it, without being in the least noticed. As Mr. Necker + followed him, universal acclamations were raised of ‘<i>Vive Monsieur + Necker, vive le sauveur de la France opprimĂ©e</i>.’ He was conducted back + to his house with the same demonstrations of affection and anxiety. About + two hundred deputies of the <i>Tiers</i>, catching the enthusiasm of the + moment, went to his house, and extorted from him a promise that he would + not resign. These circumstances must wound the heart of the King, desirous + as he is, to possess the affections of his subjects. As soon as the + proceedings at Versailles were known at Paris, a run began on the <i>caisse + d’escompte</i>, which is the first symptom always of the public diffidence + and alarm. It is the less in condition to meet the run, as Mr. Necker has + been forced to make free with its funds, for the daily support of the + government. This is the state of things as late as I am able to give them + with certainty, at this moment. My letter not being to go off till + to-morrow evening, I shall go to Versailles to-morrow, and be able to add + the transactions of this day and to-morrow. + </p> + <p> + June 25. Just returned from Versailles, I am enabled to continue my + narration. On the 24th, nothing remarkable passed, except an attack by the + mob of Versailles on the Archbishop of Paris, who had been one of the + instigators of the court, to the proceedings of the, <i>seance royale</i>. + They threw mud and stones at his carriage, broke the windows of it, and he + in a fright promised to join the <i>Tiers</i>. + </p> + <p> + This day (the 25th) forty-eight of the Nobles have joined the <i>Tiers</i>. + Among these is the Duke d’Orleans. The Marquis de la Fayette could not be + of the number, being restrained by his instructions. He is writing to his + constituents, to change his instructions or to accept his resignation. + There are with the <i>Tiers</i> now one hundred and sixty-four members of + the Clergy, so that the common chamber consists of upwards of eight + hundred members. The minority of the Clergy, however, call themselves the + Chamber of the Clergy, and pretend to go on with business. I found the + streets of Versailles much embarrassed with soldiers. There was a body of + about one hundred horse drawn up in front of the Hotel of the States, and + all the avenues and doors guarded by soldiers. Nobody was permitted to + enter but the members, and this was by order of the King; for till now, + the doors of the common room have been open, and at least two thousand + spectators attending their debates constantly. They have named a + deputation to wait on the King, and desire a removal of the soldiery from + their doors, and seem determined, if this is not complied with, to remove + themselves elsewhere. + </p> + <p> + Instead of being dismayed with what has passed, they seem to rise in their + demands, and some of them to consider the erasing every vestige of a + difference of order, as indispensable to the establishment and + preservation of a good constitution. I apprehend there is more courage + than calculation in this project. I did imagine, that seeing that Mr. + Necker and themselves were involved as common enemies in the hatred of the + aristocrats, they would have been willing to make common cause with him, + and to wish his continuance in office; and that Mr. Necker, seeing that + all the trimming he has used towards the court and Nobles has availed him + nothing, would engage himself heartily and solely on the popular side, and + view his own salvation in that alone. The confidence which the people + place in him, seems to merit some attention. However, the mass of the + common chamber are absolutely indifferent to his remaining in office. They + consider his head as unequal to the planning a good constitution, and his + fortitude to a co-operation in the effecting it. His dismission is more + credited to-day than it was yesterday. If it takes place, he will retain + his popularity with the nation, as the members of the States will not + think it important to set themselves against it, but on the contrary, will + be willing that he should continue on their side, on his retirement. The + run on the <i>caisse d’escompte</i> continues. The members of the States + admit, that Mr. Necker’s departure out of office will occasion a stoppage + of public payments. But they expect to prevent any very ill effect, by + assuring the public against any loss, and by taking immediate measures for + continuing payment. They may, perhaps, connect these measures with their + own existence, so as to interest the public in whatever catastrophe may be + aimed at them. The gazettes of France and Leyden accompany this. During + the continuance of this crisis and my own stay, I shall avail myself of + every private conveyance to keep you informed of what passes. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with the most perfect esteem and respect, Sir, + your most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0210" id="link2H_4_0210"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CCIX.—TO JOHN JAY, June 29, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO JOHN JAY. + </p> + <p> + Paris, June 29, 1789. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + My letter of the 25th gave you the transactions of the States General to + the afternoon of that day. On the next, the Archbishop of Paris joined the + <i>Tiers</i>, as did some others of the Clergy and <i>Noblesse</i>. On the + 27th, the question of the St. Domingo deputation came on, and it was + decided that it should be received. I have before mentioned to you the + ferment into which the proceedings at the <i>seance royale</i> of the 23rd + had thrown the people. The soldiery also were affected by it. It began in + the French guards, extended to those of every other denomination (except + the Swiss), and even to the body-guards of the King. They began to quit + their barracks, to assemble in squads, to declare they would defend the + life of the King, but would not cut the throats of their fellow-citizens. + They were treated and caressed by the people, carried in triumph through + the streets, called themselves the soldiers of the nation, and left no + doubt on which side they would be, in case of a rupture. Similar accounts + came in from the troops in other parts of the kingdom, as well those which + had not heard of the <i>seance royale</i>, as those which had, and gave + good reason to apprehend that the soldiery, in general, would side with + their fathers and brothers, rather than with their officers. The operation + of this medicine, at Versailles, was as sudden as it was powerful. The + alarm there was so complete, that in the afternoon of the 27th, the King + wrote a letter to the President of the Clergy, the Cardinal de la + Rochefoucault, in these words: [* A translation is here given.] + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + * My Cousin, Wholly engaged in promoted the general good of + my kingdom, and desirous, above all things, that the + Assembly of the States General should apply themselves to + objects of general interest, after the voluntary acceptance + by your order of my declaration of the 23rd of the present + month; I pass my word that my faithful Clergy will, without + delay, unite themselves with the other two orders, to hasten + the accomplishment of my paternal views. Those whose powers + are too limited, may decline voting until new powers are + procured. This will be a new mark of attachment which my + Clergy will give me. I pray God, my Cousin, to have you in + his holy keeping. LOUIS.’ +</pre> + <p> + A like letter was written to the Duke de Luxemburgh, President of the <i>Noblesse</i>. + The two chambers entered into debate on the question, whether they should + obey the letter of the King. There was a considerable opposition; when + notes written by the Count d’Artois to sundry members, and handed about + among the rest, decided the matter, and they went in a body and took their + seats with the <i>Tiers</i>, and thus rendered the union of the orders in + one chamber complete. As soon as this was known to the people of + Versailles, they assembled about the palace, demanded the King and Queen, + who came and showed themselves in a balcony. They rent the skies with + cries of ‘Vive la Roy,’ ‘Vive la Reine.’ They, called for the Dauphin, who + was also produced, and was the subject of new acclamations. After feasting + themselves and the royal family with this tumultuary reconciliation, they + went to the house of Mr. Necker and M. de Montmorin, with shouts of + thankfulness and affection. Similar emotions of joy took place in Paris, + and at this moment, the triumph of the Tiers is considered as complete. + Tomorrow they will recommence business, voting by persons on all + questions: and whatever difficulties may be opposed in debate by the + malcontents of the Clergy and Nobility, every thing must be finally + settled at the will of the <i>Tiers</i>. It remains to see whether they + will leave to the nobility any thing but their titulary appellations. I + suppose they will not. Mr. Necker will probably remain in office. It would + seem natural that he should endeavor to have the hostile part of the + Council removed, but I question if he finds himself firm enough for that. + A perfect co-operation with the <i>Tiers</i> will be his wisest game. This + great crisis being now over, I shall not have matter interesting enough to + trouble you with, as often as I have done lately. There has nothing + remarkable taken place in any other part of Europe. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with the most perfect esteem and respect, Sir, + your most; obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0211" id="link2H_4_0211"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CCX.—TO THE MARQUIS DE LA FAYETTE, July 6, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO THE MARQUIS DE LA FAYETTE. + </p> + <p> + Paris, July 6, 1789. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + I never made an offer to any body to have corn or flour brought here from + America: no such idea ever entered my head. Mr. Necker desired me to give + information in America, that there would be a want of flour. I did so in a + letter to Mr. Jay, which he published with my name to it, for the + encouragement of the merchants. Those here, who have named me on this + subject, must have mistaken me for Mr. Parker. I have heard him say, he + offered to Mr. Necker to bring a large supply, yet I do not think I ever + repeated this: or if I did, it must have been in a company I relied on. I + will thank you to satisfy Mr. Necker of the truth. It would be + disagreeable, and perhaps mischievous, were he to have an idea that I + encouraged censures on him. I will bring you the paper you desire + to-morrow; and shall dine at the Dutchess Danville’s, where I shall be + happy to meet you. + </p> + <p> + Adieu. Yours affectionately. + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0212" id="link2H_4_0212"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CCXI.—TO THE MARQUIS DE LA FAYETTE, July 7,1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO THE MARQUIS DE LA FAYETTE. + </p> + <p> + Paris, July 7,1789. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Your letter of yesterday gave me the first information that Monsieur de + Mirabeau had suggested to the honorable the Assembly of the Nation, that I + had made an offer to Mr. Necker to obtain from America a quantity of corn + or flour, which had been refused. I know not how Monsieur de Mirabeau has + been led into this error. I never in my life made any proposition to Mr. + Necker on the subject: I never said I had made such a proposition. Some + time last autumn, Mr. Necker did me the honor to desire I would have + notified in the United States, that corn and flour would meet with a good + sale in France. I conveyed this notice, in a letter to Mr. Jay, Secretary + for Foreign Affairs, as you will see by the extract of my letter published + by him in an American gazette, which I have the honor to send you. I must + beg leave to avail myself of your friendship and of your position to have + a communication of these facts made to the honorable Assembly of the + Nation, of which you are a member, and to repeat to you those sentiments + of respect and attachment, with which I have the honor to be, my dear Sir, + your most obedient and most + </p> + <p> + humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0213" id="link2H_4_0213"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CCXII.—TO MR. NECKER, July 8, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO MR. NECKER. + </p> + <p> + Paris, July 8, 1789 + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to enclose you a copy of my letter to Monsieur de la + Fayette. When I called on him yesterday, he had already spoken to Monsieur + de Mirabeau, who acknowledged he had been in an error in what he had + advanced in the Assembly of the Nation, as to the proposition supposed to + have been made by me to your Excellency, and undertook to declare his + error, when the subject should be resumed by the Assembly, to whom my + letter to the Marquis de la Fayette will be also read. + </p> + <p> + I have thought it a duty, Sir, thus to correct, in the first moment, an + error, by which your name had been compromitted by an unfounded use of + mine, and shall be happy in every occasion of proving to you those + sentiments of profound respect and attachment, with which I have the honor + to be, your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0214" id="link2H_4_0214"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CCXIII.—TO THE COUNT DE MONTMORIN, July 8, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO THE COUNT DE MONTMORIN. + </p> + <p> + Paris, July 8, 1789. + </p> + <p> + Sir, + </p> + <p> + My hotel having been lately robbed for the third time, I take the liberty + of uniting my wish with that of the inhabitants of this quarter, that it + might coincide with the arrangements of police, to extend to us the + protection of a guard. While the <i>Douane</i> remained here, no accident + of that kind happened, but since their removal, other houses in the + neighborhood have been robbed as well as mine. Perhaps it may lessen the + difficulties of this request, that the house occupied by the people of the + <i>Douane</i>, will lodge abundantly a <i>corps de garde</i>. On the one + side of that house is Chaillot, on the other the Roule, on the third the + Champs Elysees, where accidents are said to happen very frequently, all of + which are very distant from any <i>corps de garde</i>. + </p> + <p> + I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect respect and + esteem, your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0215" id="link2H_4_0215"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CCXIV.—TO THE MARQUIS DE LA FAYETTE, July 9, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO THE MARQUIS DE LA FAYETTE. + </p> + <p> + Paris, July 9, 1789. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Having been curious to form some estimate of the quantity of corn and + flour which have been supplied to France this year, I applied to a person + in the Farms to know upon what quantities the premium had been paid. He + could not give me information, but as to the Atlantic ports, into which + there have been imported from the United States, from March to May + inclusive, forty-four thousand one hundred and sixteen quintals of corn, + twelve thousand two hundred and twenty-one quintals of flour, making + fifty-six thousand three hundred and thirty-seven quintals in the whole. + Add to this what has been imported since May, suppose nearly twenty + thousand quintals a month, and what has been furnished to the French + islands, which has prevented an equal quantity being exported from France, + and you will have the proportion drawn from us. Observe, that we have + regular and constant markets for our corn and flour in Spain, Portugal, + and all the West India islands, except the French. These take nearly our + whole quantity. This year, France, the French West Indies, and Canada were + added. But a regular course of trade is not quitted in an instant, nor + constant customers deserted for accidental ones. This is the reason that + so small a proportion has come here. + </p> + <p> + I am, Dear Sir, with great sincerity, your affectionate friend and + servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0216" id="link2H_4_0216"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CCXV.—TO THE MARQUIS DE LA FAYETTE, July 10, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO THE MARQUIS DE LA FAYETTE. + </p> + <p> + Paris, July 10, 1789. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + The acknowledgment by Monsieur de Mirabeau to the National Assembly, that + he had been in an error as to the offer he supposed me to have made, and + the reading to them my letter, seem to be all that was requisite for any + just purpose. As I was unwilling my name should be used to injure the + minister, I am also unwilling it should be used to injure Monsieur de + Mirabeau. I learn that his enemies in Paris are framing scandalous + versions of my letter. I think, therefore, with you, it may be better to + print it, and I send you a copy of it. I gave copies of it to Monsieur de + Montmorin and Monsieur Necker, as was my duty. + </p> + <p> + I am, with sincere affection, my Dear Sir, your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0217" id="link2H_4_0217"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LETTER CCXVI.—TO THOMAS PAINE, July 11, 1789 + </h2> + <p> + TO THOMAS PAINE. + </p> + <p> + Paris, July 11, 1789. + </p> + <p> + Dear Sir, + </p> + <p> + Since my last, which was of May the 19th, I have received yours of June + the 17th and 18th. I am struck with the idea of the geometrical + wheel-barrow, and will beg of you a farther account, if it can be + obtained. I have no news yet of my <i>congĂ©</i>. + </p> + <p> + Though you have doubtless heard most of the proceedings of the States + General since my last, I will take up the narration where that left it, + that you may be able to separate the true from the false accounts you have + heard. A good part of what was conjecture in that letter, is now become + true history. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + The National Assembly, then, (for that is the name they take,) having + shown through every stage of these transactions a coolness, wisdom, and + resolution to set fire to the four corners of the kingdom, and to perish + with it themselves, rather than to relinquish an iota from their plan of a + total change of government, are now in complete and undisputed possession + of the sovereignty. The executive and aristocracy are at their feet; the + mass of the nation, the mass of the clergy, and the army are with them: + they have prostrated the old government, and are now beginning to build + one from the foundation. A committee, charged with the arrangement of + their business, gave in, two days ago, the following order of proceedings. + </p> + <p> + ‘1. Every government should have for its only end, the preservation of the + rights of man: whence it follows, that to recall constantly the government + to the end proposed, the constitution should begin by a declaration of the + natural and imprescriptible rights of man. + </p> + <p> + ‘2. Monarchical government being proper to maintain those rights, it has + been chosen by the French nation. It suits especially a great society; it + is necessary for the happiness of France. The declaration of the + principles of this government, then, should follow immediately the + declaration of the rights of man. + </p> + <p> + ‘3. It results from the principles of monarchy, that the nation, to assure + its own rights, has yielded particular rights to the monarch: the + constitution, then, should declare, in a precise manner, the rights of + both. It should begin by declaring the rights of the French nation, and + then should declare the rights of the King. + </p> + <p> + ‘4. The rights of the King and nation not existing but for the happiness + of the individuals who compose it, they lead to an examination of the + rights of citizens. + </p> + <p> + ‘5. The French nation not being capable of assembling individually to + exercise all its rights, it ought to be represented. It is necessary, + then, to declare the form of its representation and the rights of its + representatives. + </p> + <p> + ‘6. From the union of the powers of the nation and King, should result the + enacting and execution of the laws: thus, then, it should first be + determined how the laws shall be established; afterwards should be + considered, how they shall be executed. + </p> + <p> + ‘7. Laws have for their object the general administration of the kingdom, + the property, and the actions of the citizens. The execution of the laws + which concern the general administration, requires Provincial and + Municipal Assemblies. It is necessary to examine, therefore, what should + be the organization of the Provincial Assemblies, and what of the + Municipal. + </p> + <p> + ‘8. The execution of the laws, which concern the property and actions of + the citizens, calls for a judiciary power. It should be determined how + that should be confided, and then its duties and limits. + </p> + <p> + ‘9. For the execution of the laws and the defence of the kingdom, there + exists a public force. It is necessary, then, to determine the principles + which should direct it, and how it should be employed. + </p> + <p> + ‘Recapitulation. + </p> + <p> + ‘Declaration of the rights of man. Principles of the monarchy. Rights of + the nation. Rights of the King. Rights of the citizens. + </p> + <p> + ‘Organization and rights of the National Assembly. Forms necessary for the + enaction of laws. Organization and functions of the Provincial and + Municipal Assemblies. Duties and limits of the judiciary power. Functions + and duties of the military power.’ + </p> + <p> + You see that these are the materials of a superb edifice, and the hands + which have prepared them are perfectly capable of putting them together, + and of filling up the work, of which these are only the outlines. While + there are some men among them of very superior abilities, the mass possess + such a degree of good sense, as enables them to decide well. I have always + been afraid their numbers might lead to confusion. Twelve hundred men in + one room are too many. I have still that fear. Another apprehension is, + that a majority cannot be induced to adopt the trial by jury, and I + consider that as the only anchor ever yet imagined by man, by which a + government can be held to the principles of its constitution. Mr. Paradise + is the bearer of this letter. He can supply those details which it would + be so tedious to write. + </p> + <p> + I am, with great esteem, Dear Sir, your friend and servant, + </p> + <p> + Th: Jefferson. + </p> + <div style="height: 6em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Memoir, Correspondence, And +Miscellanies, From The Papers Of Thomas Jefferson, by Thomas Jefferson + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE WRITINGS OF THOMAS JEFFERSON *** + +***** This file should be named 16782-h.htm or 16782-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + https://www.gutenberg.org/1/6/7/8/16782/ + +Produced by David Widger + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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