From John Jay to Morris S. Miller, 22 May 1809
To Morris S. Miller
Bedford 22 May 1809
Dear Sir
I recd. by the last mail, and have read with great pleasure, your obliging Letter of the 11th. Inst:—1 The Information in conveys, cannot fail of being grateful to all who prefer the wise and upright Policy which distinguished the Administration of Washington, to that which of late has distressed and disgraced our Country:
How far the favorable changes which have taken place, are imputable to patriotic and correct Principle, Time and Experience only can decide.—Sincerely do I wish that all our Elections may manifest the Prevalence of Such Principles; but I am not sanguine in my Expectations of it. Personal and pecuniary considerations appear to have acquired a more than ordinary Degree of Influence—many Sacrifices of public Good have been, and will yet be made to them—
On the Exertions of the virtuous and intelligent, much will always depend—should they become relaxed by a Sense either of Security or Fatigue, we shall probably lose the Ground we have gained. I brought with me into Retirement the same affections for my Country, by which I have always been actuated; and you rightly judge, that nothing which is of Importance to the Public, can be a Matter of Indifference to me.—
Miss Jay joins with me in assuring you and Mrs. Miller of our best wishes for your Prosperity— I am Dear Sir with sincere Esteem and Regard, Your obt. Servt.
John Jay
Morris S. Miller Esqr.
ALS, MH (EJ: 05323). WJ, 2: 312; HPJ, 4: 313–15. Addressed: “Morris S. Miller Esqr. / Utica / State of New York”. Marked: “Bedford 25 May” / “17”.