The infirm state of my health, since the two severe attacks of fevers at Washington, last winter, has rendered exercise & relaxation, necessary to its restoration; and I had, in view, for some time, the position of visiting Monticello, or I should have returned an earlier answer to your acceptable favor of the 26. of July last. I need not add, what heartfelt pleasure it would have given me to have seen you once more, & to have taken by the hand the distinguished friend to whom I am so completely indebted; and to whom my dearest country owes so much.

I think decidedly with you an impenetrable silence should be observed towards the importunate calumniators of your blameless character. Your triumph is complete. A sound victory over a prostrate antagonist would indeed be humiliating.

It is probable that I should go to B. Ayres, with the approbation of the Senate; but when I may depart is uncertain. Your great & good soul & character are well known in that country, & they will daily become more familiar, as it prospers in the enjoyment of civil & religious freedom. I dislike with you Princes & Kings. At this side of the Atlantik they can not flourish. The climate & the soil are equally unpropitious to them. I regret extremely that [. . .] has taken a Course so impolitic, & so hostile to the first [. . .] of all legitimate governments. His friends say he will relinquish, in due time, the title & the power. [. . .]; but I apprehend he will attempt to excite a new dynasty. May I be mistaken Liberty will cease immediately,—[. . .], & truth [. . .].