Putting these two things together, we
cannot misconstrue his views. He must have had great confidence in
Mr. Adams's continuance to risk such a certainty as he held. Jay was
yesterday nominated Chief Justice. We were afraid of something worse. A
scheme of government for the territory is cooking by a committee of each
House, under separate authorities, but probably a voluntary harmony.
They let out no hints. It is believed that the judiciary system will not
be pushed, as the appointments, if made by the present administration,
could not fall on those who create them. But I very much fear the road
system will be urged. The mines of Peru would not supply the monies
which would be wasted on this object, nor the patience of any people
stand the abuses which would be incontrollably committed under it. I
propose, as soon as the state of the election is perfectly ascertained,
to aim at a candid understanding with Mr. Adams. I do not expect that
either his feelings or his views of interest will oppose it. I hope
to induce in him dispositions liberal and accommodating. Accept my
affectionate salutations.
Th: Jefferson.
LETTER CCLXVII.--TO JAMES MADISON, December 26, 1800
TO JAMES MADISON.
Washington, December 26, 1800.
Dear Sir,
All the votes have now come in, except of Vermont and Kentucky, and
there is no doubt that the result is a perfect parity between the two
republican characters.
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