JAY TO ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON. - John Jay, The Correspondence and Public Papers of John Jay, vol. 1 (1763-1781) [1890]
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The Correspondence and Public Papers of John Jay, ed. Henry P. Johnston, A.M. (New York: G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 1890-93). Vol. 1 (1763-1781).
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JAY TO ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON.
Philadelphia, 13th January, 1779.
Dear Robert:
Not a single line have you received from me since my arrival. This, as you say, does not look very friendly. I confess it, and, what is more in my favour, feel it.
Business, I know, cannot excuse a total silence, though it may palliate a partial one. I won’t plead it, for I never admitted it; nor do I now write merely to keep fair with my own principles. Inclination more than consistency prompts me on this occasion.
I presume your Legislature is by this time convened. Now is the season for exertion. Attend regularly. Confirm those who esteem you and their country. Convert or confound those who would sacrifice either to private views.
Will any consideration induce you to visit another quarter of the globe? I don’t know that you will be called upon, but I am not sure that you may not. My conduct will be greatly influenced by your inclination.
I had almost persuaded myself to write a letter to your brother Ned, urging him to come to this college, and offering my service to prepare the way for his reception. But as, on reflection, I apprehend it might stimulate him to a measure in which, perhaps, his mamma or brother might not concur, I decline it for the present. I cannot forbear, however, observing to you that, in my opinion, his genius and his years call for a further degree of cultivation than can be obtained at Hurley. I wish to be useful to every lad of talents and cleverness; and I assure you that desire will always be increased when these recommendations are possessed by one so nearly connected with a gentleman and a family who have particular claims to my esteem and respect.
I am, your friend,
John Jay.
P.S.—Don’t be too lazy or too busy to let me know how you do.
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