Thomas Jefferson Papers
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https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Jefferson/03-08-02-0022

Thomas Jefferson to Joseph C. Cabell, 16 October 1814

To Joseph C. Cabell

Monticello Oct. 16. 14.

Dear Sir

Either inaccurate expression in myself, or the misapprehension1 of a friend to whom I had communicated my former letters on our finances, having obliged me to write another in explanation, I inclose you a copy of it because you had taken the trouble to read the others. I should wish this to be seen by those to whom you had communicated the former, lest they also should have misapprehended me, taking care only to keep it out of the public papers and to return it when done with.2 I am aware of the nest of hornets it would raise upon me and am too old to court controversy. 40. years ago I might have indulged the spirit of proselytism; but at present I seek not to disturb the opinions of others. Accept the assurance of my friendly & respectful attachment

Th: Jefferson

RC (ViU: TJP); addressed: “Joseph C. Cabell of the Senate of Virginia now at Richmond”; franked; postmarked Milton, 19 Oct.; endorsed by Cabell as answered 27 Dec. 1814. PoC (DLC); endorsed by TJ. Enclosure: TJ to James Madison, 15 Oct. 1814.

The former letters on our finances included TJ to John Wayles Eppes, 24 June, 11 Sept., and 6 Nov. 1813, and TJ to Cabell, 23 Sept. 1814.

1Manuscript: “misappehension.”

2Preceding seven words interlined.

Index Entries

  • Cabell, Joseph Carrington; and TJ’s ideas on finance search
  • Cabell, Joseph Carrington; letters to search
  • Eppes, John Wayles (TJ’s son-in-law); and TJ’s letters on finance search
  • Jefferson, Thomas; Opinions on; government finance search
  • Madison, James (1751–1836); and TJ’s letters on finance search
  • political economy; TJ’s letters on finance search