of long duration. I shall not wonder to see the scenes of ancient Rome
and Carthage renewed in our day; and if not pursued to the same issue,
it may be, because the republic of modern powers will not permit the
extinction of any one of its members. Peace and friendship with all
mankind is our wisest policy: and I wish we may be permitted to pursue
it. But the temper and folly of our enemies may not leave this in our
choice. I am happy in our prospect of friendship with the most estimable
powers of Europe, and particularly with those of the confederacy, of
which yours is. That your present crisis may have a happy issue, is the
prayer and wish of him, who has the honor to be, with great respect and
esteem, Sir, your most obedient humble servant,

Th: Jefferson.




LETTER X.--TO WILLIAM DRAYTON, May 6, 1786


TO WILLIAM DRAYTON.

Paris, May 6, 1786.

Sir,

Your favor of November the 23rd came duly to hand. A call to England,
soon after its receipt, has prevented my acknowledging it so soon as I
should have done. I am very sensible of the honor done me by the South
Carolina society for promoting and improving agriculture and other rural