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Subject Area: Political Theory
Topic: The American Revolution and Constitution

JAY TO HENRY MARCHANT. - John Jay, The Correspondence and Public Papers of John Jay, vol. 3 (1782-1793) [1891]

Edition used:

The Correspondence and Public Papers of John Jay, ed. Henry P. Johnston, A.M. (New York: G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 1890-93). Vol. 3 (1782-1793).

Part of: The Correspondence and Public Papers of John Jay, 4 vols.

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JAY TO HENRY MARCHANT.

New York, 6th September, 1792.

Dear Sir:

. . . . . . .

Your solicitude for the honour and welfare of our country is patriotic. If similar sentiments prevailed more generally, there would be less reason for anxiety. But, my good friend, in the present state of society in this country, we must not expect to be entirely exempt from the influence of private passions on public affairs. The people of the United States possess more information than the people of any other country, but they do not in my opinion yet possess throughout a sufficient degree of it. Ignorance and credulity will always be duped and misled by artifice and design; where all are informed few will be deceived; and it is only from the number that may be deceived that danger or mischief are to be apprehended.

I am, my dear sir,
Your affectionate friend and servant,

John Jay.