Page:Memoir, correspondence, and miscellanies, from the papers of Thomas Jefferson - Volume 4 - 2nd ed.djvu/27

 CORRESPONDENCE. 15 incidentally, are treated with a masterly hand. It is a single oc- tavo volume, and I have been only able to read a borrowed copy, the only one I have yet heard of. Probably our h-iends in England will think of you, and give you an opportunity of reading it. Accept my affectionate salutations, and assurances of great es- teem and respect.

LETTER X. TO ELBRIDGE GERRY.

Washington, March 3, 1804.

Although it is long since I received your favor of October the 27th, yet I have not had leisure sooner to acknowledge it. In the Middle and Southern States, as great an union of sentiment has now taken place as is perhaps desirable. For as there will always be an opposition, I believe it had better be from avowed mon- archists than republicans. New York seems to be in danger of re- publican division ; Vermont is solidly with us ; Rhode Island with us on anomalous grounds ; New Hampshire on the verge of the republican shore ; Connecticut advancing towards it very slowly, but with steady step ; your State only uncertain of making port at all. I had forgotten Delaware, which will be always uncertain from the divided character of her citizens. If the amendment of the constitution passes Rhode Island (and we expect to hear in a day or two), the election for the ensuing four years seems to pre- sent nothing formidable. 1 sincerely regret that the unbounded calumnies of the federal party have obliged me to throw myself on the verdict of my country for trial, my great desire having been to retire at the end of the present term, to a hfe of tranquillity ; and it was my decided purpose when I entered into office. They force my continuance. If we can keep the vessel of State as steadily in her course for another four years, my earthly purposes will be accomplished, and I shall be free to enjoy, as you are doing, my family, my farm, and my books. That your enjoyments may continue as long as you shall wish them, I sincerely pray, and lender you my friendly salutations, and assurances of great respect and esteem.