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

TO THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY (ROBERT SMITH) - Thomas Jefferson, The Works, vol. 10 (Correspondence and Papers 1803-1807) [1905]

Edition used:

The Works of Thomas Jefferson, Federal Edition (New York and London, G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 1904-5). Vol. 10.

Part of: The Works of Thomas Jefferson, 12 vols.

About Liberty Fund:

Liberty Fund, Inc. is a private, educational foundation established to encourage the study of the ideal of a society of free and responsible individuals.


TO THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY
(ROBERT SMITH)

j. mss.

Monticello Aug. 28, 04.

Dear Sir,

—I inclose you a letter and other papers which I received from Capt. Truxtun by the last post. The malice and falsehood so habitual in Federal zealots had prepared me against surprise at the insinuations of this officer against you & myself. But what was his view in inclosing the letter to me? Was it to give greater point to his disrespect? Or did he imagine I should make him overtures to prevent his publication? I would rather he would publish than not; for while his writings will let the public see what he is, & what are the motives of his discontent, a few sentences of plain fact will set everything in them to rights as to our conduct. Be so good as to return me the written letter.

The following paragraph which comes to me from a friend in Philadelphia I quote for your notice.

“It is said here that George Harrison has applied for the place in the navy that Genl. Irvine had. He has got too much already for any Federalist who has rendered his country no personal service in the field. This man is married to Thos. Willing’s niece. Willing is Presidt. of the Bank of the U. S. You may also observe he was chairman at a meeting when they agreed to hoist the black cockade on the left arm in honor of Hamilton. They also resolved and expected the clergymen would preach in his favor.”

The writer is a most solid Republican, and who generally expresses the feelings of the republicans in Philadelphia pretty faithfully. I know not what functions Irvine executed for the navy; but if any, the above sentiments are worthy of attention, as the emploiment of Harrison has given them heart burnings. I know nothing of him, whether moderate or violent; but until the party learn a little more moderation & decency, no new favors should be conferred on them. Pennsylvania seems to have in it’s bowels a good deal of volcanic matter, & some explosion may be expected. We must be neutral between the discordant republicans but not between them & their common enemies. I salute you with sincere affection & respect.