I
do not go into all the details of the burthens and benefits of this
operation. And who could estimate its blessed effects? I leave this
to those who will live to see their accomplishment, and to enjoy a
beatitude forbidden to my age. But I leave it with this admonition, to
rise and be doing. A million and a half are within their control;
but six millions (which a majority of those now living will see them
attain), and one million of these fighting men, will say, 'We will not
go.'
I am aware that this subject involves some constitutional scruples.
But a liberal construction, justified by the object, may go far, and
an amendment of the constitution, the whole length necessary. The
separation of infants from their mothers, too, would produce some
scruples of humanity. But this would be straining at a gnat, and
swallowing a camel.
I am much pleased to see that you have taken up the subject of the duty
on imported books. I hope a crusade will be kept up against it, until
those in power shall become sensible of this stain on our legislation
and shall wipe it from their code, and from the remembrance of man, if
possible.
I salute you with assurances of high respect and esteem.
Th: Jefferson"
LETTER CLXXX.--TO EDWARD LIVINGSTON, April 4, 1824
TO EDWARD LIVINGSTON.
Monticello, April 4, 1824.
Dear Sir,
It was with great pleasure I learned that the good people of New Orleans
had restored you again to the councils of our country.
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