to the common sense of the nation, proclaims impunity to that class
of offenders which endeavors to overturn the constitution, and are
themselves protected in it by the constitution itself: for impeachment
is a farce which will not be tried again. If their protection of Burr
produces this amendment, it will do more good than his condemnation
would have done. Against Burr, personally, I never had one hostile
sentiment. I never, indeed, thought him an honest, frank-dealing man,
but considered him as a crooked gun, or other perverted machine, whose
aim or shot you could never be sure of. Still, while he possessed the
confidence of the nation, I thought it my duty to respect in him their
confidence, and to treat him as if he deserved it: and if his punishment
can be commuted now for an useful amendment of the constitution, I shall
rejoice in it. My sheet being full, I perceive it is high time to
offer you my friendly salutations, and assure you of my constant and
affectionate esteem and respect.

Th: Jefferson.




LETTER XLIV.--TO GEORGE HAY, June 2, 1807


TO GEORGE HAY.

Washington, June 2, 1807.

Dear Sir,