TO THOMAS LEIPER - Thomas Jefferson, The Works, vol. 10 (Correspondence and Papers 1803-1807) [1905]
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The Works of Thomas Jefferson, Federal Edition (New York and London, G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 1904-5). Vol. 10.
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TO THOMAS LEIPER
j. mss.
Washington June 11, 04.
Dear Sir,
—A Mr. John Hill of Philadelphia asks of me whether Mr. Duane senr ever said in my presence “that the members of the St. Patrick’s society in Phila were all Federalists.” I do not know Mr. Hill, and the liberties which have been taken in publishing my letters renders it prudent not to commit them to persons whom I do not know, yet a desire never to be wanting to truth and justice makes me wish it to be known that Mr. Duane never did use such an expression or anything like it to me either verbally or in writing or any other way, nor utter a sentiment disrespectful of the society. I remember a considerable time ago to have had a letter from one of the society stating that such information they heard had been given me, but not saying by whom, which letter I immediately answered with an assurance that no such suggestion had ever been made to me. I cannot now recollect to whom the answer was given and therefore cannot turn to it. Our friends in Philadelphia seem to have got into such a jumble of subdivision that not knowing how they stand individually, I have been at a loss to whom I should address this with a request to repeat verbally the substance of this declaration as on my authority but not letting the letter go out of his hands. I have concluded to ask that favor of you whose justice I am sure will induce you to give the assurance where it may contribute to justice, and whose friendship will excuse the trouble of this request. Accept my friendly salutations & assurances of esteem & respect.
Washington Mar. 9, 04.
Sir,
—I have duly received your favor of the 5th inst, and I hasten to assure you that neither Doctr Leib nor Mr. Duane have ever given the least hint to me that yourself or your associates of the St. Patrick’s society meditated joining a third party; or schismatizing in any way from the great body of republicans. That the rudiments of such a 3d party were formed in Pennsylvania & New York has been said in the newspapers, but not proved. Altho’ I shall learn it with concern whenever it does happen, and think it possibly may happen that we shall divide among ourselves whenever federalism is compleatly eradicated, yet I think it the duty of every republican to make great sacrifices of opinion to put off the evil day, and that yourself and associates have as much disposition to do this as any portion of our body I have never seen reason to doubt. Recommending therefore sincerely a mutual indulgence, and candor among brethren and that we be content to obtain the best measures we can get, if we cannot get all we would wish, I tender you my salutations and respects.
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