Integrity of views, more than their soundness, is the basis of esteem. I
shall follow your direction in conveying this by a private hand; though
I know not as yet when one worthy of confidence will occur. And my
trust in you leaves me without a fear that this letter, meant as a
confidential communication of my impressions, may ever go out of your
own hand, or be suffered in any wise to commit my name. Indeed, besides
the accidents which might happen to it even under your care, considering
the accident of death to which you are liable, I think it safest to pray
you, after reading it as often as you please, to destroy at least the
second and third leaves. The first contains principles only, which I
fear not to avow; but the second and third contain facts stated for your
information, and which, though sacredly conformable to my firm belief,
yet would be galling to some, and expose me to illiberal attacks. I
therefore repeat my prayer to burn the second and third leaves. And did
we ever expect to see the day, when, breathing nothing but sentiments
of love to our country and its freedom and happiness, our correspondence
must be as secret as if we were hatching its destruction? Adieu, my
friend, and accept my sincere and affectionate salutations. I need not
add my signature.
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