st be made. They must be
as few as possible, done gradually, and bottomed on some malversation
or inherent disqualification. Where we shall draw the line between
retaining all and none, is not yet settled, and will not be till we get
our administration together; and perhaps even then, we shall proceed _a
tatons_, balancing our measures according to the impression we perceive
them to make.

This may give you a general view of our plan. Should you be in Albemarle
the first week in April, I shall have the pleasure of seeing you there,
and of developing things more particularly, and of profiting by an
intercommunication of views. Dawson sails for France about the 15th, as
the bearer only of the treaty to Ellsworth and Murray. He has probably
asked your commands, and your introductory letters.

Present my respects to Mrs. Monroe, and accept assurances of my high and
affectionate consideration and attachment.

Th: Jefferson.

LETTER CCLXXV.--TO GOVERNOR M'KEAN, March 9, 1801

TO GOVERNOR M'KEAN.

Washington, March 9, 1801.

Dear Sir,

I have to acknowledge the receipt of your favor of February the 20th,
and to thank you for your congratulations on the event of the election.
Had it terminated in the elevation of Mr. Burr every republican would,
I am sure, have acquiesced in a moment; because, however it might have
been variant from the intentions of the voters, yet it would have
been agreeable to the constitution. No man would more cheerfully have
submitted than myself, because I am sure the administration would have
been republican, and the chair of the Senate permitting me to be at home
eight months in the year, would, on that account, have been much more
consonant to my real satisfaction. But in the event of an usurpation, I
was decidedly with those who were determined not to permit it. Because
that precedent, once set, would be artificially reproduced, and end soon
in a dictator. Virginia was bristling up, I believe. I shall know the
particulars from Governor Monroe, whom I expect to meet in a short visit
I must make home, to select some books, &c. necessary here, and make
other domestic arrangements.

Accept assurances of my high esteem and regard.

Th: Jefferson.

LETTER CCLXXVI.--TO JOEL BARLOW, March 14, 1801

TO JOEL BARLOW.

Washington, March 14, 1801.

Dear Sir,

Not having my papers here, it is not in my power to acknowledge the
receipt of your letters by their dates, but T am pre