Thomas Jefferson, a Character Sketch by Edward S. (Edward Sylvester) Ellis
page 94 of 162 (58%)
page 94 of 162 (58%)
![]() | ![]() |
|
Jefferson won his immortal and resplendent fame.
SELF-CONTROL. With all his apparent tolerance and good humor, there was a great deal of the arbitrary and despotic in Mr. Jefferson's nature. Stern principle alone enabled him to keep his native imperiousness within proper bounds. THE INFLUENCE OF JEFFERSON'S SISTER. Among those who exerted a marked influence on Jefferson's early years was his oldest and favorite sister Jane. She was three years his senior, and was a woman of superior standing and great elevation of character. She was his constant companion when he was at home, and a sympathizing friend to whom he unlocked his heart. She was a "singer of uncommon skill and sweetness, and both were particularly fond of the solemn music used by the Church of England in the Psalms." She died in the fall of 1765, at the age of twenty-five. He cherished her memory with the warmest affection to the close of his life. JEFFERSON A DOCTRINAIRE. |
|