I perceive that I have permitted my reflections to run into generalities
beyond the scope of the particular intimation in your letter I will let
them go, however, as a general confession of faith, not belonging merely
to the present case.
Name me affectionately to our brethren with you, and be assured yourself
of my constant friendship and respect.
Th: Jefferson.
LETTER CLXXIX.--TO JARED SPARKS, February 4, 1824
TO JARED SPARKS.
Monticello, February 4, 1824.
Dear Sir,
I duly received your favor of the 3th, and with it the last number of
the North American Review. This has anticipated the one I should receive
in course, but have not yet received, under my subscription to the new
series. The article on the African colonization of the people of color,
to which you invite my attention, I have read with great consideration.
It is, indeed, a fine one, and will do much good. I learn from it more,
too, than I had before known, of the degree of success and promise of
that colony.
In the disposition of these unfortunate people, there are two rational
objects to be distinctly kept in view. 1. The establishment of a colony
on the coast of Africa, which may introduce among the aborigines the
arts of cultivated life, and the blessings of civilization and science.
By doing this, we may make to them some retribution for the long course
of injuries we have been committing on their population.
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