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,
Dear Sir, your most obedient
and most humble servant,
Th: Jefferson
LETTER II.
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