tton and beef of Marrowbone, Horse-pasture, and Poison-field, with
yourself and Mrs. Gilmer, and my good old neighbors. I am as happy no
where else, and in no other society, and all my wishes end, where I hope
my days will end, at Monticello. Too many scenes of happiness mingle
themselves with all the recollections of my native woods and fields, to
suffer them to be supplanted in my affection by any other. I consider
myself here as a traveller only, and not a resident. My commission
expires next spring, and if not renewed, I shall of course return then.
If renewed, I shall remain here some time longer. How much, I cannot
say; yet my wishes shorten the period. Among the strongest inducements,
will be that of your society and Mrs. Gilmer's, which I am glad to find
brought more within reach, by your return to Pen-park. My daughters are
importunate to return also. Patsy enjoys good health, and is growing
to my stature. Maria arrived here about a month ago, after a favorable
voyage, and in perfect health. My own health has been as good as ever,
after the first year's probation. If you knew how agreeable to me are
the details of the small news of my neighborhood, your charity would
induce you to write frequently. Your letters lodged in the post-office
at Richmond (to be forwarded to New York) come with certainty. We are
doubtful yet, whether there will be war or not. Present me with warm
affection to Mrs. Gilmer, and be assured yourself of the unvarying
sentiments of esteem and attachment, with which I am, Dear Doctor, your
sincere friend and servant,

Th: Jefferson.

LETTER LXXXVI.--TO JOSEPH JONES, August 14, 1787

TO JOSEPH JONES.

Paris, August 14, 1787.

Dear Sir,

I have never yet thanked you, but with the heart, for the act of
Assembly confirming the agreement with Maryland, the pamphlet, and
papers, I received from you a twelvemonth ago. Very soon after their
receipt, I got my right wrist dislocated, which prevented me long from
writing, and as soon as that was able to bear it, I took a long journey,
from which I am but lately returned. I am anxious to hear what
our federal convention recommends, and what the States will do in
consequence of their recommendation. * * * * With all the defects of
our constitution, whether general or particular, the comparison of our
governments with those of Europe, is like a comparison of heaven and
hell. England, like the earth, may be allowed to take the intermediate