. I only wish for one of those
instruments used in England for measuring the force exerted in the
draughts of different ploughs, &c, that I might compare the resistance
of my mould-board with that, of others. But these instruments are not
to be had here. In a letter of this date to Mr. Rittenhouse, I mention
a discovery in animal history very signal indeed, of which I shall
lay before the Society the best account I can, as soon as I shall have
received some other materials collecting for me.

I have seen, with extreme indignation, the blasphemies lately vended
against the memory of the father of American philosophy. But his memory
will be preserved and venerated as long as the thunder of heaven shall
be heard or feared.

With good wishes to all of his family, and sentiments of great respect
and esteem for yourself, I am, Dear Sir, your most obedient and most
humble servant,

Th: Jefferson.

LETTER CXCIX.--TO COLONEL MONROE, July 10, 1796

TO COLONEL MONROE.

Monticello, July 10, 1796.

Dear Sir,

*****

The campaign of Congress has closed. Though the Anglomen have in the end
got their treaty through, and so far have triumphed over the cause of
republicanism, yet it has been to them a dear-bought victory. It has
given the most radical shock to their party which it has ever received:
and, there is no doubt, they would be glad to be replaced on the ground
they possessed the instant before Jay's nomination extraordinary. They
see that nothing can support them but the colossus of the President's
merits with the people, and the moment he retires, that his successor,
if a monocrat, will be overborne by the republican sense of his
constituents; if a republican, he will of course give fair play to that
sense, and lead things into the channel of harmony between the governors
and governed. In the mean time, patience.

Among your neighbors there is nothing new. Mr. Rittenhouse is lately
dead. We have had the finest harvest ever known in this part of the
country. Both the quantity and quality of wheat are extraordinary. We
got fifteen shillings a bushel for the last crop, and hope two thirds of
that at least for the present one.

Most assiduous court is paid to Patrick Henry. He has been offered every
thing which they knew he would not accept. Some impression is thought to
be made, but we do not believe it is radical. If they thought they could
count upon him, they would run him for their Vice-President; their