The conversation
ended with this last topic. It is here stated nearly as much at length
as it really was; the expressions preserved where I could recollect
them, and their substance always faithfully stated.
Th: Jefferson.
March 1, 1792.
On the 2nd of January, 1792, Messrs. Fitzsimmons and Gerry (among
others) dined with me. These two staid, with a Mr. Learned of
Connecticut, after the company was gone. We got on the subject of
references by the legislature to the Heads of departments, considering
their mischief in every direction. Gerry and Fitzsimmons clearly opposed
to them.
Two days afterwards (January the 4th), Mr. Bourne from Rhode Island
presented a memorial from his State, complaining of inequality in the
Assumption, and moved to refer it to the Secretary of the Treasury.
Fitzsimmons, Gerry, and others opposed it; but it was carried.
January the 19th. Fitzsimmons moved, that the President of the United
States be requested to direct the Secretary of the Treasury, to lay
before the House information to enable the legislature to judge of
the additional revenue necessary on the increase of the military
establishment. The House, on debate, struck out the words, 'President of
the United States.'
March the 7th. The subject resumed. An animated debate took place on the
tendency of references to the Heads of departments; and it seemed that
a great majority would be against it: the House adjourned.
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