ensible of the honor you propose to me, of becoming a member
of the society for the abolition of the slave-trade. You know that
nobody wishes more ardently, to see an abolition, not only of the trade,
but of the condition of slavery: and certainly nobody will be more
willing to encounter every sacrifice for that object. But the influence
and information of the friends to this proposition in France will be
far above the need of my association. I am here as a public servant,
and those whom I serve, having never yet been able to give their
voice against the practice, it is decent for me to avoid too public
a demonstration of my wishes to see it abolished. Without serving the
cause here, it might render me less able to serve it beyond the water. I
trust you will be sensible of the prudence of those motives, therefore,
which govern my conduct on this occasion, and be assured of my wishes
for the success of your undertaking, and the sentiments of esteem and
respect, with which I have the honor to be, Sir, your most obedient,
humble servant,

Th: Jefferson.

LETTER CXXVIII.--TO JOHN ADAMS, March 2, 1788

TO JOHN ADAMS.

Paris, March 2, 1788.--Sunday.

Dear Sir,

I received this day, a letter from Mrs. Adams, of the 26th ultimo,
informing me you would set out on the 29th for the Hague. Our affairs at
Amsterdam press on my mind like a mountain. I have no information to
go on, but that of Willincks and Van Staphorsts, and according to that,
something seems necessary to be done. I am so anxious to confer with
you on this subject, and to see you and them together, and get some
effectual arrangement made in time, that I determine to meet you at the
Hague. I will set out the moment some repairs are made to my carriage:
it is promised me at three o'clock to-morrow; but probably they will
make it night, and that I may not set out till Tuesday morning. In that
case, I shall be at the Hague on Friday night: in the mean time, you
will perhaps have made all your bows there. I am sensible how irksome
this must be to you, in the moment of your departure. But it is a great
interest of the United States, which is at stake, and I am sure you will
sacrifice to that your feelings and your interest. I hope to shake you
by the hand within twenty-four hours after you receive this; and in
the mean time, I am, with much esteem and respect, Dear Sir, your
affectionate friend and humble servant,

Th: Jefferson.

LETTER CXXIX.--T