The evil, too, increases greatly
with the protraction of the session, and I apprehend, in case of war,
their session would have a tendency to become permanent. It is much,
therefore, to be desired that war may be avoided, if circumstances will
admit. Nor in the present maniac state of Europe, should I estimate
the point of honor by the ordinary scale. I believe we shall, on the
contrary, have credit with the world, for having made the avoidance
of being engaged in the present unexampled war, our first object. War,
however, may become a less losing business than unresisted depredation.
With every wish that events may be propitious to your administration, I
salute you with sincere affection and every sympathy of the heart.
Th: Jefferson.
LETTER LXXX.--TO THE INHABITANTS OF ALBEMARLE COUNTY, April 3, 1809
TO THE INHABITANTS OF ALBEMARLE COUNTY, IN VIRGINIA,
Returning to the scenes of my birth and early life, to the society
of those with whom I was raised, and who have been ever dear to me, I
receive, fellow-citizens and neighbors, with inexpressible pleasure,
the cordial welcome you are so good as to give me. Long absent on duties
which the history of a wonderful era made incumbent on those called to
them, the pomp, the turmoil, the bustle, and splendor of office, have
drawn but deeper sighs for the tranquil and irresponsible occupations of
private life, for the enjoyment of an affectionate intercourse with
you, my neighbors and friends, and the endearments of family love, which
nature has given us all, as the sweetener of every hour.
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