of a part by great, and a part by small sections, would
give a result very different from what would be the sentiment of the
whole people of the United States, were they assembled together. I have
to-day had a conversation with ------ who has taken a flying trip here
from New York. He says, they have really now a majority of the House of
Representatives, but, for want of some skilful person to rally round,
they are disjointed, and will lose every question. In the senate there
is a majority of eight or nine against us. But in the new election which
is to come on in April, three or four in the Senate will be changed in
our favor; and in the House of Representatives the county elections will
still be better than the last: but still all will depend on the city
election, which is of twelve members. At present there would be no doubt
of our carrying our ticket there; nor does there seem to be time for any
events arising to change that disposition. There is therefore the best
prospect possible of a great and decided majority on a joint vote of
the two Houses. They are so confident of this, that the republican party
there will not consent to elect either by districts or a general ticket.
They choose to do it by their legislature. I am told the republicans
of New Jersey are equally confident, and equally anxious against an
election either by districts or a general ticket. The contest in this
State will end in a separation of the present legislature without
passing any election law (and their former one has expired), and in
depending on the new one, which will be elected October the 14th,
in which the republican majority will be more decided in the
Representatives, and instead of a majority of five against us in the
Senate, will be of one for us. They will, from the necessity of the
case, choose the electors themselves. Perhaps it will be thought I ought
in delicacy to be silent on this subject. But you, who know me, know
that my private gratifications would be most indulged by that issue,
which should leave me most at home. If any thing supersedes this
propensity, it is merely the desire to see this government brought back
to its republican principles. Consider this as written to Mr. Madison as
much as yourself and communicate it, if you think it will do any good
to those possessing our joint confidence or any others where it may be
useful and safe. Health and affectionate salutations.

Th: Jefferson.

LETTER CCLVII.--TO