The Correspondence of Thomas Jefferson
By Subject
PRESIDENCY / REFLECTIONS
I received with peculiar gratification the affectionate address of
the citizens of Washington and in the patriotic sentiments it
expresses, I see the true character of the national metropolis.
The station we occupy among the nations of the earth is honorable,
but awful. Trusted with the destinies of this solitary republic of the
world, the only monument of human rights, and the sole repository of
the sacred fire of freedom and self-government, from hence it is to be
lighted up in other regions of the earth, if other regions of the
earth ever become susceptible of its genial influence. All mankind
ought, then, with us, to rejoice in its prosperous, and sympathize in
its adverse fortunes, as involving everything dear to man. And to what
sacrifices of interest or convenience, ought not these considerations
to animate us! To what compromises of opinion and inclination, to
maintain harmony and union among ourselves, and to preserve from all
danger this hallowed ark of human hope and happiness! That differences
of opinion should arise among men, on politics, on religion, and on
every topic of human inquiry, and that these should be freely
expressed in a country where all our facilities are free, is to be
expected. But these valuable privileges are much perverted when
permitted to disturb the harmony of social intercourse, and to lessen
the tolerance of Opinion. To the honor of society here, it has been
characterized by a just and generous liberality, and an indulgence of
those affections which, without regard to political creeds, constitute
the happiness of life. That the improvements of this city must proceed
with sure and steady steps, follows from its many obvious advantages,
and from the enterprising spirit of its inhabitants, which promises to
render it the fairest seat of wealth and science.
It is very gratifying to me that the general course of my
administration is approved by fellow-citizens, and particularly that
the motives of my retirement are satisfactory. I part with the powers
entrusted to me by my country, as with a burden of heavy bearing; but
it is with sincere regret that I part with the society in which I have
lived here. It has been the source of much happiness to me during my
residence at the seat of government, and I owe it much for its kind
dispositions. I shall ever feel a high interest in the prosperity of
the city, and an affectionate attachment to its inhabitants.
To the Citizens of Washington, 4 March 1809
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