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

JAY TO PRESIDENT WASHINGTON. - John Jay, The Correspondence and Public Papers of John Jay, vol. 4 (1794-1826) [1893]

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. 4 (1794-1826).

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

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JAY TO PRESIDENT WASHINGTON.

London, 25th February, 1795.

Dear Sir:

Your very friendly letter of the 1st November last gratified me not a little. The insurrection had caused disagreeable sensations in this country. The objects and efforts of the Jacobin societies in America were well known here; and the fate of our government was considered as being involved in that of the insurrection. The manner in which it has terminated has given sincere satisfaction to this government, to whom all disorganizing innovations give alarm, and their confidence in your wisdom and decision and energy has been confirmed by the event.

The institution and influence of such societies among us had given me much concern; and I was happy in perceiving that the suppression of the insurrection, together with the character and fall of similar ones in France, would probably operate in the extinction of these mischievous associations in America.

Your remarks relative to my negotiations are just and kind. I assure you nothing on my part has been wanting to render the conclusion of them as consonant as was possible to your expectations and wishes.

Perfectly apprised both of my duty and responsibility I determined not to permit my judgment to be influenced by any considerations but those of public good under the direction of my instructions. I knew and know that no attainable settlement or treaty would give universal satisfaction; and I am far from expecting that the one I have signed will not administer occasion for calumny and detraction.

These are evils which they who serve the people will always meet with. Demagogues will constantly flatter the passions and prejudices of the multitude, and will never cease to employ improper arts against those who will not be their instruments. I have known many demagogues, but I have never known one honest man among them. These are among the other evils which are incident to human life, and none of them shall induce me to decline or abandon any pursuits in which I may conceive it to be my duty to embark or persevere. All creatures will act according to their nature, and it would be absurd to expect that a man who is not upright, will act like one who is. The time will come when all books and histories and errors will be consumed, and when from their ashes truth only will rise and prevail and be immortal.

I observe from Mr. Randolph’s letter that certain articles in the treaty will be considered as more objectionable than they appear to me. Before answers to his letters arrive its fate will be decided, and if it should not be ratified I presume explicit instructions will immediately be sent to me on the points in question, and I will do my best endeavours to adjust them accordingly.

Among my despatches to Mr. Randolph by this ship is a copy of a letter I have received from Mr. Monroe at Paris, and of two which I have written to him. The expediency of correcting the mistakes which the French Convention seem to have imbibed will doubtless strike you. From the last of my two letters to Mr. Monroe you will remark that Col. Trumbull is going to Stutgard with my consent; his presence there is necessary about some plates which our engraver there has nearly finished for him. Be pleased to present my best compliments to Mrs. Washington, and be assured of the perfect respect, esteem, and attachment with which I am,

Dear sir,
Your obliged and affectionate servant,

John Jay.