1From Thomas Jefferson to Larkin Smith, 26 November 1804 (Jefferson Papers)
Your letter of the 10th. came to hand yesterday evening. it is written with frankness and independance, and will be answered in the same way. you complain that I did not answer your letters applying for office. but if you will reflect a moment you may judge whether this ought to be expected. to the succesful applicant for an office the commission is the answer. to the unsuccesful multitude, am...