n the
principal object aimed at by the law.

Notwithstanding the unfavorableness of the late impressions, it is
believed the New York elections, which are over, will give us two or
three republicans more than we now have. But it is supposed Jay is
re-elected. It is said Hamilton declines coming to the Senate. He very
soon stopped his Marcellus. It was rather the sequel which was feared
than what actually appeared. He comes out on a different plan in
his Titus Manlius, if that be really his. The appointments to the
Mississippi were so abominable that the Senate could not swallow them.
They referred them to a committee to inquire into characters, and the
President withdrew the nomination.

*****

As there is nothing material now to be proposed, we generally expect to
rise in about three weeks. However, I do not venture to order my horses.

My respectful salutations to Mrs. Madison. To yourself affectionate
friendship, and adieu,

Th: Jefferson.

P. S. Perhaps the President's expression before quoted, may look to the
sedition-bill which has been spoken of, and which may be meant to put
the printing-presses under the imprimatur of the executive. Bache is
thought a main object of it. Cabot, of Massachusetts, is appointed
Secretary of the Navy. T. J.

LETTER CCXXXIV.--TO JAMES LEWIS, JUNIOR, May 9, 1798

TO JAMES LEWIS, JUNIOR.

Philadelphia, May 9, 1798.

Dear Sir,

I am much obliged by your friendly letter of the 4th instant. As soon as
I saw the first of Mr. Martin's letters, I turned to the newspapers
of the day, and found Logan's speech, as translated by a common Indian
interpreter. The version I had used, had been made by General Gibson.
Finding from Mr. Martin's style, that his object was not merely truth,
but to gratify party passions, I never read another of his letters. I
determined to do my duty by searching into the truth, and publishing it
to the world, whatever it should be. This I shall do at a proper season.
I am much indebted to many persons, who, without any acquaintance with
me, have voluntarily sent me information on the subject. Party passions
are indeed high. Nobody has more reason to know it than myself. I
receive daily bitter proofs of it from people who never saw me, nor know
any thing of me but through Porcupine and Fenno. At this moment all the
passions are boiling over, and one who keeps himself cool and clear of
the contagion, is so far below the point of ordinary conversation