Jay suggests that Kempe is withholding information from him because of a supposed defect in constitution or inaccuracy in mode of expression and think she has fixed his resentment on objects too trifling to merit serious consideration. If a gentleman's conduct is misunderstood he should explain it as a complement to those who ask it and in justice to his own reputation. A man has a right to be warm at indelicate treatment. Even though Kempe knew Jay was retained in the case of the Parish of Jamaica, he avoided all conversation with him on it. The case was argued without Jay's knowledge. Jay does not want a rupture but would rather reject the world than purchase it by patience under indignities.
Subjects
United States--History--Colonial period, ca. 1600-1775; Jay, John, 1745-1829