ch more consequence to them
than a King of Poland. We must take care, however, that neither this,
nor any other objection to the new form, produces a schism in our Union.
That would be an incurable evil, because near friends falling out, never
re-unite cordially; whereas, all of us going together, we shall be sure
to cure the evils of our new constitution, before they do great harm.
The box of books I had taken the liberty to address to you, is but just
gone from Havre for New York. I do not see, at present, any symptoms
strongly indicating war. It is true, that the distrust existing between
the two courts of Versailles and London, is so great, that they can
scarcely do business together. However, the difficulty and doubt
of obtaining money make both afraid to enter into war. The little
preparations for war, which we see, are the effect of distrust, rather
than of a design to commence hostilities. And in such a state of mind,
you know, small things may produce a rupture: so that though peace is
rather probable, war is very possible.

Your letter has kindled all the fond recollections of ancient times;
recollections much dearer to me than any thing I have known since. There
are minds which can be pleased by honors and preferments; but I see
nothing in them but envy and enmity. It is only necessary to possess
them, to know how little they contribute to happiness, or rather how
hostile they are to it. No attachments soothe the mind so much as those
contracted in early life; nor do I recollect any societies which have
given me more pleasure, than those of which you have partaken with me.
1 had rather be shut up in a very modest cottage, with my books, my
family, and a few old friends, dining on simple bacon, and letting the
world roll on as it liked, than to occupy the most splendid post, which
any human power can give. I shall be glad to hear from you often. Give
me the small news as well as the great. Tell Dr. Currie, that I believe
I am indebted to him a letter, but that like the mass of our countrymen,
I am not, at this moment, able to pay all my debts; the post being to
depart in an hour, and the last stroke of a pen I am able to send by it,
being that which assures you of the sentiments of esteem and attachment,
with which I am, Dear Sir, your affectionate friend and servant,

Th: Jefferson.

LETTER CXXVII.--TO M. WARVILLE, February 12, 1888

TO M. WARVILLE.

Paris, February 12, 1888.

Sir,

I am very s