nly
in deference to his judgment, but because, as we should never think of
separation but for repeated and enormous violations, so these, when they
occur, will be cause enough of themselves.

To these topics, however, should be added animadversions on the new
pretensions to a common law of the United States. I proposed to Mr.
M. to write to you but he observed that you knew his sentiments so
perfectly from a former conference, that it was unnecessary. As to the
preparing any thing, I must decline it, to avoid suspicions (which were
pretty strong in some quarters on the late occasion), and because there
remains still (after their late loss) a mass of talents in Kentucky
sufficient for every purpose. The only object of the present
communication is to procure a concert in the general plan of action, as
it is extremely desirable that Virginia and Kentucky should pursue the
same track on this occasion. Besides, how could you better while away
the road from hence to Kentucky, than in meditating this very subject
and preparing something yourself, than whom nobody will do it better.
The loss of your brother, and the visit of the apostle ------ to
Kentucky, excite anxiety. However, we doubt not that his poisons will
be effectually counterworked. Wishing you a pleasant journey and happy
return, I am with great and sincere esteem, Dear Sir, your affectionate
friend and servant,

Th: Jefferson.

LETTER CCLV.--TO JAMES MADISON, November 22, 1799

TO JAMES MADISON.

Monticello, November 22, 1799.

Dear Sir,

I have never answered your letter by Mr. Polk, because I expected to
have paid you a visit. This has been prevented by various causes, till
yesterday. That being the day fixed for the departure of my daughter
Eppes, my horses were ready for me to have set out to see you: an
accident postponed her departure to this day, and my visit also. But
Colonel Monroe dined with me yesterday, and on my asking his commands
for you, he entered into the subject of the visit and dissuaded it
entirely, founding the motives on the espionage of the little ------in
------ who would make it a subject of some political slander, and
perhaps of some political injury. I have yielded to his representations,
and therefore shall not have the pleasure of seeing you till my return
from Philadelphia. I regret it sincerely, not only on motives of
attention but of affairs. Some late circumstances changing considerably
the aspect of our situation,