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

JAY TO PETER VAN SCHAACK. - 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.

About Liberty Fund:

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JAY TO PETER VAN SCHAACK.

Bedford, 28th July, 1812.

Dear Sir:

I received on Saturday last your friendly letter of the 20th inst.

No event that is highly interesting to our country can be viewed with indifference by good citizens; and there are certain occasions when it is not only their right, but also their duty, to express their sentiments relative to public measures.

As the war has been constitutionally declared, the people are evidently bound to support it in the manner which constitutional laws do or shall prescribe.

In my opinion, the declaration of war was neither necessary, nor expedient, nor seasonable; and I think that they who entertain this opinion do well in expressing it, both individually and collectively, on this very singular and important occasion.

As to town meetings on the subject, the expediency of them depends much on the question whether and how far the inhabitants of the town concur or disagree in sentiment. When convened, their proceedings and resolutions should be decided and firm, and they should also be temperate and decent. There are few ideas which cannot be decently dressed. Harsh and violent expressions neither convince nor persuade. A Spanish proverb says: “We cannot catch flies with vinegar.”

The irascible passions, when highly excited, are difficult to control, and sometimes produce or lead to events which are to be deprecated. Commotions tending to a dissolution of the Union, or to civil war, would be serious evils. A change of measures would result from a change of rulers, and public opinion is the proper means of effecting it.

I do not hesitate to express these sentiments on proper occasions; but it would not be pleasant to be quoted in newspapers, or hand-bills, or public speeches.

Thus, my dear sir, I have complied with your request very clearly and explicitly. It would have given me pleasure to have done this in conversation, and to have talked over with you many other matters, both old and new.

I am, my good friend,
Yours, sincerely and affectionately,

John Jay.