should have lost the services of the greatest character of our country,
had he been assailed with the degree of abandoned licentiousness now
practised. The torture he felt under rare and slight attacks, proved
that under those of which the federal bands have shown themselves
capable, he would have thrown up the helm in a burst of indignation.
Yet this effect of sensibility must not be yielded to. If we suffer
ourselves to be frightened from our post by mere lying, surely the enemy
will use that weapon; for what one so cheap to those of whose system of
politics morality makes no part? The patriot, like the Christian, must
learn that to bear revilings and persecutions is a part of his duty;
and in proportion as the trial is severe, firmness under it becomes more
requisite and praiseworthy. It requires, indeed, self-command. But
that will be fortified in proportion as the calls for its exercise are
repeated. In this I am persuaded we shall have the benefit of your good
example. To the other falsehoods they have brought forward, should they
add, as you expect, insinuations of want of confidence in you from the
administration generally, or myself particularly, it will, like their
other falsehoods, produce in the public mind a contrary inference.

*********

I tender you my friendly and respectful salutations.

Th: Jefferson.




LETTER XXIV.--TO THOMAS PAINE, June 5, 1805