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SCI LIBRARY

The Correspondence of Thomas Jefferson

By Subject


PRESIDENCY / OPINIONS OF THE PRESIDENT



Our situation is difficult; and whatever we do is liable to the criticisms of those who wish to represent it awry. If we recommend measures in a public message, it may be said that members are not sent here to obey the mandates of the President, or to register the edicts of a sovereign. If we express opinions in conversation, we have then our Charles Jenkinsons, and back-door counsellors. If we say nothing, "we have no opinions, no plans, no Cabinet." In truth it is the fable of the old man, his son and ass, over again.

to William Duane, 22 March 1806