But the copy published says, 'as they
have already submitted us to the form of the British,' &c.; making me
express hostility to the form of our government, that is to say, to the
constitution itself. For this is really the difference of the word form,
used in the singular or plural, in that phrase, in the English language.
Now it would be impossible for me to explain this publicly, without
bringing on a personal difference between General Washington and myself,
which nothing before the publication of this letter has ever done. It
would embroil me also with all those with whom his character is still
popular, that is to say, nine tenths of the people of the United States;
and what good would be obtained by avowing the letter with the necessary
explanations? Very little indeed, in my opinion, to counterbalance
a good deal of harm. From my silence in this instance, it cannot be
inferred that I am afraid to own the general sentiments of the letter.
If I am subject to either imputation, it is to that of avowing such
sentiments too frankly both in private and public, often when there
is no necessity for it, merely because I disdain every thing like
duplicity. Still, however, I am open to conviction. Think for me on the
occasion, and advise me what to do, and confer with Colonel Monroe on
the subject.
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