[Document, 1821 May 13]
- Title
- [Document, 1821 May 13]
- Library Location
- Rare Book & Manuscript Library, Columbia University
- Name
- Adams, John, 1735-1826 (Author)
- Jay, John, 1745-1829 (Addressee)
- Format
- correspondence
- Digital Project
- Papers of John Jay
- Date
- May 13, 1821
- Language
- English
- Physical Description
- 3 pages
- Subjects
- United States--History--1783-1865; Jay, John, 1745-1829
- Summary
- Jay's plan of writing to Mr. Duane for copies of the "very short journals" is judicious. Is not concerned about such extracts since Congress has ordered their journals to be printed; though he is ashamed of his, that shame cannot be increased by its fresh publication. Sympathizes with John Jay's concern for "our Country, our Children and our Species." An effervescence now present among mankind portends changes in religion and government, hopefully for the better. We do not realize the weakness of our nation, which can bear prosperity and power no better than the body can bear an excess of ardent spirits without intoxication. Confused ideas of representative government prevail all over Europe. Constitutions of Spain, Naples, and Portugal cannot reconcile peace, order and liberty, each one of which cannot exist without the other two. Hopes Jay will be a member of the convention in New York, since it will need an "Oak Pillar to Support the Temple." Massachusetts confirms the essence of her fabric with amazing unanimity.
- Identifier
- columbia.jay.05443