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
|