A debt of an hundred millions growing by usurious interest, and an
artificial paper phalanx overruling the agricultural mass of our
country, with other et ceteras, have a portentous aspect.
I fear our friends on the other side the water, laboring in the same
cause, have yet a great deal of crime and of misery to wade through. My
confidence had been placed in the head, not in the heart of Bonaparte.
I hoped he would calculate truly the difference between the fame of a
Washington and a Cromwell. Whatever his views may be, he has at least
transferred the destinies of the republic from the civil to the military
arm. Some will use this as a lesson against the practicability of
republican government. I read it as a lesson against the danger of
standing armies. Adieu, my ever respected and venerable friend. May that
kind overruling Providence which has so long spared you to our
country, still foster your remaining years with whatever may make them
comfortable to yourself and soothing to your friends. Accept the cordial
salutations of your affectionate friend,
Th: Jefferson.
LETTER CCLVIII.--TO JAMES MADISON, March 4, 1800
TO JAMES MADISON.
Philadelphia, March 4, 1800.
Dear Sir,
I have never written to you since my arrival here, for reasons which
were explained.
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