whose names are unknown to me, but written kindly and civilly, and to
which, therefore, civility requires answers. Perhaps, the better known
failure of your hand in its function of writing, may shield you in
greater degree from this distress, and so far qualify the misfortune of
its disability. I happened to turn to my letter-list some time ago, and
a curiosity was excited to count those received in a single year. It
was the year before the last. I found the number to be one thousand two
hundred and sixty-seven, many of them requiring answers of elaborate
research, and all to be answered with due attention and consideration.
Take an average of this number for a week or a day, and I will repeat
the question suggested by other considerations in mine of the 1st. Is
this life? At best it is but the life of a mill-horse, who sees no
end to his circle but in death. To such a life, that of a cabbage is
paradise. It occurs, then, that my condition of existence, truly stated
in that letter, if better known, might check the kind indiscretions
which are so heavily oppressing the departing hours of life. Such a
relief would, to me, be an ineffable blessing. But yours of the 11th,
equally interesting and affecting, should accompany that to which it is
an answer. The two, taken together, would excite a joint interest, and
place before our fellow-citizens the present condition of two ancient
servants, who, having faithfully performed their forty or fifty
campaigns, _stipendiis omnibus expletis_, have a reasonable claim
to repose from all disturbance in the sanctuary of invalids and
superannuates. But some device should be thought of for their getting
before the public otherwise than by our own publication. Your printer,
perhaps, could frame something plausible, ------'s name, should be left
blank, as his picture, should it meet his eye, might give him pain. I
consign, however, the whole subject to your consideration, to do in it
whatever your own judgment shall approve, and repeat always, with truth,
the assurance of my constant and affectionate friendship and respect.

Th: Jefferson.

LETTER CLXIV.--TO WILLIAM T. BARRY, July 2, 1822

TO WILLIAM T. BARRY.

Monticello, July 2, 1822.

Sir,

Your favor of the 15th of June is received, and I am very thankful for
the kindness of its expressions respecting myself. But it ascribes to me
merits which I do not claim. I was only of a band devoted to the cause
of independence, al