efore we received
the place, took any part with him. His partisans were the new emigrants
from the United States and elsewhere, fugitives from justice or debt,
and adventurers and speculators of all descriptions.

I enclose you a proclamation, which will show you the critical footing
on which we stand, at present, with England. Never, since the battle of
Lexington, have I seen this country in such a state of exasperation
as at present. And even that did not produce such unanimity. The
federalists themselves coalesce with us as to the object, although they
will return to their old trade of condemning every step we take towards
obtaining it. 'Reparation for the past, and security for the future,' is
our motto. Whether these will be yielded freely, or will require resort
to non-intercourse, or to war, is yet to be seen. We have actually near
two thousand men in the field, covering the exposed parts of the coast,
and cutting off supplies from the British vessels.

I am afraid I have been very unsuccessful in my endeavors to serve
Madame de Tesse in her taste for planting. A box of seeds, &c. which I
sent her in the close of 1805, was carried with the vessel into England,
and discharged so late that I fear she lost their benefit, for that
season. Another box, which I prepared in the autumn of 1806, has,
I fear, been equally delayed from other accidents. However, I will
persevere in my endeavors.

Present me respectfully to her, M. de Tesse, Madame de la Fayette, and
your family, and accept my affectionate salutations, and assurances of
constant esteem and respect.

Th: Jefferson.

LETTER LVIII.--TO JOHN PAGE, July 17, 1807

TO JOHN PAGE.

Washington, July 17, 1807.

My Dear Friend,

Yours of the 11th is received. In appointments to public offices of mere
profit, I have ever considered faithful service in either our first or
second revolution as giving preference of claim, and that appointments
on that principle would gratify the public, and strengthen that
confidence so necessary to enable the executive to direct the whole
public force to the best, advantage of the nation. Of Mr. Boiling
Robertson's talents and integrity I have long been apprized, and would
gladly use them where talents and integrity are wanting. I had thought
of him for the vacant place of secretary of the Orleans territory, but
supposing the salary of two thousand dollars not more than he makes
by his profession, and while remaining wit